Human Interest

Joshua De Souza Pens Heartfelt Note for His Father, Late Francisco C. J. A. De Pinto E Souza


โ€œSome lives continue to shape our path long after they are gone.โ€

On the 7th death anniversary of former Goa Deputy Chief Minister Francisco C. J. A. De Pinto E Souza, his son and Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering his father not only as a respected political leader but as his guide and greatest source of strength.

In an emotional note, Joshua reflected on the values, discipline, and commitment to public service that his father embodied throughout his political journey. He expressed that the lessons taught to him โ€” both as a son and as a young leader โ€” continue to influence every decision he makes while serving the people of Mapusa and Goa.

Francisco De Souza was widely regarded for his administrative acumen, grassroots connect, and dedication to Goaโ€™s development. His tenure as Deputy Chief Minister left a lasting mark on the stateโ€™s political landscape.

Seven years after his passing, his legacy continues to live on โ€” not only in public memory but through the leadership and service carried forward by his son. The tribute stands as a reminder that true leadership is measured not only by positions held, but by the values instilled in the next generation.

For Joshua De Souza, the remembrance was deeply personal โ€” a reflection of gratitude, respect, and responsibility to uphold the principles that defined his fatherโ€™s life and career.

#faith

Our Lady of Home Gets โ€˜Spiritually Holy Welcomedโ€™ in MLA Joshua De Souza House in Mapusa


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

In a heartfelt expression of devotion and tradition, Mapusa Constituency MLA Joshua De Souza  welcomed Our Lady of Home into his residence, marking a spiritually significant moment for his family and the broader Christian community in Goa. The visit is part of a long-standing tradition celebrated throughout the state, where the statue of the Blessed Mother moves from one home to another during the months leading to the New Year.

“I welcome Mother Mary into my home today, a moment that strengthens our faith and keeps alive a treasured tradition. It is truly a blessing to have our Blessed Mother visit every household, filling our lives with peace, grace, and protection. May her presence continue to bless our families and keep us steadfast in faith,” said MLA De Souza.

Known as the Queen of Home, Our Lady of Home is a symbol of unity, hope, and spiritual protection in Christian households. Referred to lovingly as the Mother of strengthening homes, she holds a special place in the hearts of Goan Catholics. Her presence is believed to bring calm, faith, and a renewed spiritual connection within families.

Each September, this sacred tradition begins as the image of Our Lady of Home makes its way across Christian households, a journey that continues until the arrival of the New Year. This act of devotion is not only a spiritual practice but also a means of bringing communities together, reviving bonds and reinforcing shared values of faith and family.

The visit of Our Lady of Home to MLA Joshua De Souzaโ€™s house signifies the role of public figures in upholding cultural and religious practices that define Goan identity. It also serves as a reminder of the strength that communities draw from shared traditions, especially in times when unity and peace are most needed.

As the Blessed Mother continues her journey through homes in Goa, her presence carries a universal message of hope, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Politics

Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza Engages with St. Francis Xavierโ€™s High School Students at Goa Legislative Assembly


Mapusa MLA and Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Joshua De Souza, recently welcomed students from St. Francis Xavierโ€™s High School, Mapusa, to his chamber for an enriching and interactive session.

The visit provided the young learners with a rare opportunity to understand the workings of the Goa Legislative Assembly and its critical role in shaping public policy. Joshua De Souza shared insights on legislative procedures, decision-making, and how laws impact citizensโ€™ lives.

The discussion was marked by curiosity and active participation from the students, who asked thought-provoking questions about governance and the responsibilities of lawmakers. The MLA expressed his delight at the enthusiasm displayed by the students, describing them as โ€œbright young minds filled with curiosity and the potential to be future leaders.โ€

Such interactions, he emphasized, are important in encouraging youth to engage with democratic institutions and understand the responsibilities that come with leadership. The students left the Assembly with a deeper appreciation of governance and a renewed sense of civic awareness.

Health

Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza Leads International Yoga Day Celebration, Emphasizes Wellness and Unity


Celebrating 11 Years of Good Governance with a Collective Commitment to a Healthier, Mindful, and United Viksit Bharat

MAPUSA, GOA โ€” June 21, 2025
In a spirited observance of International Yoga Day, Mapusa MLA Joshua De Souza led a vibrant and inclusive yoga session, organized by BJP Mapusa in collaboration with the Patanjali Yog Samiti, Bardez, to mark the 11 Years of Good Governance under visionary leadership.

Held in the heart of Mapusa, the event witnessed participation from local leaders, government employees, party karyakartas, and citizens, reinforcing the timeless Indian message of wellness, mindfulness, and unity through yoga.

๐ŸŒฟ A Morning of Asanas, Pranayama, and Meditation

The session included guided practices of yoga asanas, pranayama (breathwork), and meditation, promoting both physical vitality and inner calm. The collective effort reflected the shared values of discipline, health, and balance โ€” qualities deeply rooted in Indiaโ€™s yogic heritage.

Chief yoga instructors Smt Rupali Yashwant Gaundalkar and Shri Virupaksh Betagiri from Patanjali Yog Samiti Bardez led the participants through a rejuvenating routine, accessible to people of all age groups and fitness levels.

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ Leadership Speaks: Vision for Viksit Bharat

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Joshua De Souza said:

โ€œYoga is not just a practice โ€” it is a philosophy of life. As we celebrate 11 years of good governance, we must also nurture a culture of holistic wellness. A healthy body and a focused mind are the cornerstones of a strong and united Viksit Bharat.โ€

He thanked all participants and organizers, especially the Patanjali Yog Samiti Bardez, for their contribution toward building a healthier community and strengthening the fabric of unity through shared practices like yoga.

๐Ÿค Dignitaries and Organizers Present

Also present at the event were:

  • BJP Mapusa Mandal President: Shri Yogesh Khedekar
  • General Secretaries: Shri Hanumant Warang and Shri Yashwant Gaundalkar
  • Senior yoga instructors and wellness advocates
  • Local government employees and active BJP karyakartas

The event highlighted a strong sense of community and participation, embodying the spirit of “Yoga for All” and aligning with Indiaโ€™s broader mission of promoting well-being as a national priority.

๐ŸŒ A Vision Beyond Fitness

International Yoga Day 2025 in Mapusa wasnโ€™t just about physical fitness โ€” it was about inspiring a movement. The program encouraged citizens to incorporate yoga into their daily routines and emphasized how ancient Indian wisdom can address modern health challenges, both physically and mentally.

#faith, Politics

Goa Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza Represents India at Pope Francis’ State Funeral at Vatican


Joshua De Souza, Deputy Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, is part of a high-level delegation led by President Droupadi Murmu to attend Pope Francis’ state funeral in Vatican City. The event brings together global leaders to pay respects to the late Pope, who passed away on April 21 at 88.

The Delegation is also accompanied by Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs and George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.


President Murmu and the delegation’s visit highlights strong India-Vatican diplomatic ties. She’ll represent India, offering condolences on behalf of the government and people, reflecting respect for Pope Francis’ contributions to global peace, interfaith dialogue, and social justice.


Pope Francis will be remembered for his compassion, humility, and spiritual courage, inspiring millions worldwide with his message of love, peace, and unity. The state funeral testifies to his lasting impact.

As Deputy Speaker Joshua De Souza participates, he embodies diplomacy and cultural exchange, fostering stronger India-international community relations.