CHRONOLOGY OF GREAT EVENTS IN THE LIFE OF

RICHARD CARVALHO
25-10-1940 Born in Retail &Beedi making small scale Factory,
Mhataro Kudru, near located at Kika Street, Nal Bazaar, near
Mulky, near Mangalore, Tamba-kata.
as the third child, second
15-06-1956– Admitted to Dhobi Talav,
son of Boniface Carvalho & Severine Furtado.
Jawaharlal Nehru Kannada Medium Night
Other siblings Stanly 1936, Molly 1938 (lone
High School, for Standard VIII and continued
sister), Sebastian 1942 & Francis 1944.
and passed IX, and promoted to Class X, due
01-06-1946 Admitted to Mgmt issues, the Night School, permission
to Maryknoll Primary to conduct Class X and XI withheld, from the
School, Hosala Barkur academic year, 1958.
to Standard I.
1958 – Continued
1950 First Holy Communion in the blessed studies in the St Anne’s
hands of Rev. Fr Charles Nazareth, the Parish English Medium High
Priest of Barkur Church. School at Mazgaon,
22-02-1950 – Celine Barnes was born, as (forceful repetition,
eldest daughter of Simon Peter Banz & since Richard’s studies were in Kannada
Veronica Pereira, Matpady. medium) to Class VIII and appeared SSLC in
the year 1961, but failed and re-
1951 Passed V Grade from Maryknoll and
appeared1962but not succeeded.
sought admission for High School Studies in
NHSS Barkur 1956 – 1960 – Day time looking after the
Paan / Beedi Shop and learning at Night
1955 Completed Grade VI,
School.
VII, VIII, and promoted to IX
in National Higher 15-06-1960 – Employed in the then famed
Secondary School, Barkur. Heavy Duty Vehicle – Bachoo’s Garage as a
Mechanical Apprentice. Trained himself as
8-04-1954 – As the St.
an Expert in Engine Building, Gear Box etc.
Peter Church, Barkur
for Seven years and seven months…till 31-
celebrated its Centenary
12-1967.
Celebrations, teenaged
Richard was one devout altar boy and 1963 – Responsibilities of running
Volunteer. the Paan Beedi Shop entrusted to
elder brother Stanly, who was an
01-06-1956 – Arrived in Bombay with Father expert Electrician by profession.
and residing in Gulal wadi, Null Bazar, with Father finishes his long innings in
elder brother Stanly, already in Bombay. Bombay and returns and settled down in
Mean while helping father in his Tobacco native town Barkur.
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02-12-1963 – Richard got the Heavy & Light 01-05-1970 – Engagement to marry with
duty Driving License through Hindustan Celine Florine Banz, the ceremony was
Driving School, Bombay Central. witnessed & blessed by devout Rev. Fr Alfred
Roche, OFM Cap. Then the Parish Priest of
15-03-1964 – Arrives Native town for the
Holy Family Church, Brahmmavar.
first time after 4 years, on vacation and visits
all relatives of father’s side in Kundapur, 26-05-1970 – Wedding Day
Kannad-Kudru, Tallur, Muvath-mudi etc….and – the great three Bells of St
returns to Bombay in April, after Easter Peter Church Barkur, chime
in perfect harmony to
celebration.
declare the union of two
18-05-1964 – Lost Father, Boniface Carvalho, hearts, ‘Richard & Celine’…..Married to
who had a massive heart attack, in Barkur. charming lady Celine from Matpady,
Richard was just 24 years old and was in Brahmmavar, daughter of Simon Peter Banz
Bombay, couldn’t attend the funeral. & Veronica Pereira. The nuptials were
solemnized in the witness of Rev. Fr Aloysius
10-4-1967 – On
Rosario, then the Vicar of Barkur.
vacation arrive at
native Barkur. With 06-06-1970 - The young couple arrives to
Aunt, Anna Stella Bombay with great dreams, aspirations and
(mother’s younger sister, married to Ignatius begins the new life in a small flat in Parel
Lewis), from Kallianpur, visit the shrine of St Village.
Jude Thaddeus at Pakshikere and sought 1973 – Proud owner of a Second hand Road
blessings from Rev. Fr Stanly R Pereira and Master saloon Car, (later known as
returns to Bombay. Ambassador), drives with family, visited
hometown Barkur, in
1-6-1967 - onwards search was on to look
May.
for a decent plot / location to start his own
Garage. Owned a fleet of around
16 Heavy-duty long
31-12-1967– Left Bachoo’s Garage, as the haulage Trucks.
owner’s reluctant to relieve the expert young
20-12-1973 - Shifted to Mahim, in a well-
Mechanic, grown to be the backbone of their
furnished flat – Hall, Bed-room and Kitchen.
Garage.
18-05-1974– Devkiran
01-01-1968 – Strong determination to
the eldest son of
venture his own Garage materialized as he Richard & Celine was
starts ‘Richard Garage’ in Sewree, Industrial born in their ancestral
Area, Harbour Lines, at the age of just 27. house at Matpady,
Brahmmavara.
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‘Bona Auto Spare Centre’ started in Sewree. of the Adhoc
27-04-1975 – New Richard Garage was Committee and
opened in Military road, Near Borosil Glass Richard Carvalho as
Factory, Marol Village, Andheri, at a very V ice President,
spacious location with modern services Archibald Furtado
facilities and parking yard for the safety of as Gen. Secretary, Lawrence A Sequeira as
Vehicles. Treasurer of the Association.

1976 – A brand new FIAT Premier Padmini 1989 – Richard Garage

purchased, was a proud possession and in Marol becomes an
companion of Carvalho’s for 13 long years… Authorized Tata Car
Service Centre, rightly a
14-05-1978 – New Open Air stage for Barkur unique recognition for its quality service and
church got inaugurated in the hands of reputation.
Bishop of Mangalore and Richard Carvalho
was also a generous benefactor. 29-09-1989 – Mother of Richard, Severine
bids adieus to this world in
18-09-1978 – Kevin Ralph Carvalho, the Bombay and her funeral and
second son was born in Bombay. burial takes place in St Micheal’s
15-02-1982 – Serena Church, Mahim.
Melissa Carvalho, the 26-01-1990 – St Peter’s
lone daughter of Richard & Hostel was inaugurated
Celine took her birth, in Bombay. at Naigaon, Rose Nagar.
1982 – Second time started transport Richard Carvalho one of
business, in their daughters Serena’s name, the pioneering architect of this prestigious
and within next five years Richard’s Garage project as SPA Vice President. Parish Priest
owns 17 Heavy Duty National Permit trucks. of Barkur Church Rev. Fr Mark D’Sa and
First body was built in RG, in Belgaum Founder Director of CYM Barkur – Rev. Fr
pattern. Henry D’Souza (at present Bishop of Bellary
Diocese, Karnataka) grace the grand
23-11-1985 – Elder brother Stanly breaths occasion.
his last in Mumbai, due to prolonged illness.
25-10-1990 – Golden Birthday of a man with
He was just 49, (DOB 26-04-1936) He was
Golden heart.
Manager for Bona Auto Parts, a subsidiary
unit of Richard’s Garage, Marol. 26-05-1995 – Richard &
Celine celebrate their
17-04-1988 – Foundation of St Peters
Association Barkur - Mumbai during a public Silver Jubilee of married
function held at Victoria Church Hall, Mahim. life, in Bombay, a low-key
Mr Augustine D’Silva became the President affair sence son Kevin was seriously ill.
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01-01-1997 – Unfortunate and premature 2011 – Religious
death of Son Kevin, at his youthful 18, a loss pilgrimage visit
of a brilliant child at his young age really
to Holy land
shatters the great dreams of parents….
with wife and
09-02-2001 – Wedding of children.
Kiran the eldest son with
26-08-2015 – Wife
Charlotte Fernandes, an
Celine, a loving
employee of prestigious
and selfless soul
Singapore Airlines office in Sahar
who made the life
International Airport in Mumbai beautiful around
20-11-2003 - Birth of grand- her, breathed her last, at
son, Ethan son of Devkiran just 64. (DOB 22-02-1950)
and Charlotte, in Mumbai, A life partner, who was
Richard and Celine proud always with Richard both
grandparents. in good and difficult
times….!
5-07-2006 - Elected to the prestigious post
25-10-2015 – Platinum Birthday of Richard
of President St Peters Association Barkur –
Hilary C. Carvalho, as
Mumbai in July.
he completes 75
2006 – 2011 – New SPA Office in Andheri, years, a simple
Registration of the Association, as a Trust, ceremony to thank
Resting Room for Railway commuters at Almighty Lord and
Barkur Railway Station, Various Welfare family and friends.
Schemes for Maryknoll Primary Schools etc.
were planned and executed.
2007 – Visited UK, with
family, on invitation from
Sister in law Judy and John
who were settled in
London, UK.

18-12-2008 – As a memorial of Dwi-

Dashamanotsav, Annual Parish Feast of St 25-10-2020 - Richard Celebrate 80th Birthday
Peters Church, and Barkur was sponsored with Family & Friends at 7pm
The Lalit Mumbai, Trendz Banquet,
with all pomp and splendors as SPA Sahar Airport Road, Marol, Andheri East,Mumbai
President, an historic event in the Diocese.
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Carvalhos when looking back & Richard’s Ancestors

In Brief About Richard’s Parents……

Ancestors of most of the Konkani Speaking exceptionally few instances where these
Catholics in Coastal Karnataka, are people happily returned their possessions /
immigrants from Goa. The exodus begun property to the original owner and
around 17 th century AD. Various clans developer…
bearing Portuguese and Spanish family or
The Carvalho’s roots in Kundapur:
surnames chose the sea shore, tiny islands,
delta and river belts, for their settlement, Likewise, the Carvalho’s from Goa origin
from Karwar to Kasargod…. Agriculture and chose Kundapur and grandfather of Richard,
improved ways of plantation of coconut Baptist and his great grandfather Aloysius
groves, fishing and dairy farming was Carvalho and brothers had some business
primary occupation. There were some and had links with Nayakas of the Ikkeri /
enterprising households, having little Keladi kings ruling the Coastal Kundapur,
capital, ventured copper smith work, a few extending almost to Basrur, Barkur,
of them owned large boats and had trade Udyavar….Mironn or sacristan of the Holy
and dealings with spices and cash crops. In Rosary Church Kundapur was his (Baptist’s)
the beginning, certain clans established Uncle, residing just opposite to Church in
dominance in their place of interest, their ancestral property. They owned and
primarily in low level flood prone islands, till developed as tenants, lot of agricultural land
the captivity of Christians by Tippu, the and property, especially Coconut plantations,
Sultan of Mysore in the year 1784. Whole of had sea trade with Goan counterparts but
small and medium sized islands / kudru, Political uncertainty, frequent wars,
hitherto unexplored, were developed by robberies in ports must have led to near
these brave and hardworking families and
bankruptcy and huge loans….
many such places were known by these
families bearing distinct family or Young Baptist, a vaccinator by profession,
surnames…. moving place to place, chose to leave
Kundapur, relinquishing any lean or right
The en-masse tragic captivity of thousands
over ancestral belongings and came down
of Catholics, en-route their death, followed
to Barkur with a certain help from Fernandes
persecution in Srirangapattana, exclusively
eliminated many Christian families and very clan which was then a dominant family in
few here were able to return after the death Barkur town and the surroundings, survived
of Tippu in the last Battle of Mysore in 1799, not being a victim of Tippu’s soldier’s
against the united forces of British, found atrocities….The friendship was sealed by a
their land and property, either confiscated matrimonial alliance by Baptist, marrying the ,
or gifted to native residents….! There were sister of Babli Fernandes from Halekody.
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Later the young couple purchased a small trade in Mysore by Boniface and tailoring
piece of land about 42 cents and built a work by Liguori, the brothers managed to
house in Rayara Thota, Kachhur, near Church, arrange the marriages of three sisters at
by the end of 19th Century. Baptist had two appropriate time…!
sons, Liguori and Boniface and three Enterprising Boniface married to Severine
daughters, two of the sisters married to Furtado, a talented and educated woman,
grooms from Tallur and one in Barkur, in hailing from a well to do household from
Kudru Roche family. Liguori who was tailor Mulky, Mhatharo Kudru, near sea shore
by profession practicing in Tallur, adjacent estuary, who were Copper merchants as well
to the Church, married to Stephanie as leading cultivators, in the year 1934.
Sequeira, from, Kalmargi, Barkur, had two When everything was on right track, the
sons viz Peter and Joseph and five daughters. threat of 2nd World war around 1937, and
(It’s worth a note here, that the extended British India actively involved in it, had
family of Carvalho’s from Barkur, today a pushed the business to wall with sharp
well-established devout household, given downfall in the Copper rates and practically
birth to professionals, businessmen, no demand, in Mysore. Boniface returned to
educationists… on one hand and on the other Barkur, almost empty handed, his wife
hand there blossomed devout priests, nuns somehow managed with the help of siblings
from here, serving the society selflessly, at and relatives to tide over the untold misery
large….) and hardship…….(A point worth a note at this
Some insights - Boniface Carvalho – juncture, advent of cheaper Aluminium
Hardworking, creative and intelligent machine made products like buckets, pots,
man: plates etc. and later plastic and shining steel
Boniface was just 3 years, when he lost his drastically reduced the demand for copper
father. Both Liguori and Bonnie had a tough and bronze utensils, as a consequence the
time to sail and settle. He has to leave copper smith profession itself abandoned…
School passing Grade III, and went to Mysore and Barkur, once a hub of Copper merchants,
with his Fernandes Uncle to help him in is not an exception and we know many
Copper smith work as an air blower etc.…. embraced agriculture, coconut plantation
etc. as an alternative…..)
As a passionate learner, he too mastered the
art of vessel making and related work and Wasting no time, Boniface rose like a sphinx
at a very young age, eventually owned a from ashes and landed in Bombay in 1938.
Copper and bronze vessel and utensils shop There was an inbuilt businessman, looking
in Mysore, a destination royal for most of for opportunities……He joined the Sassoon
our ancestors, before Bombay, a city of Dock……Interestingly, a model boat
opportunities, took over to be a place manufactured by Bonnie with Copper rebate
providing employment and enterprise by 19th work, covering copper plates appreciated by
Century, especially after the I World War, to British Naval Officers and sailors and there
be the commercial capital of British India were plans to reproduce them was
and there on….From the income earned from on….Unfortunately Dock workers declared
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strike and probably a rewarding career too Boniyab’s Shop & rooms:
was blown with it and with the outbreak of
Once served as unofficial Kood / Club, for
World War II, in September, 1939.
Barkurian bachelors, for many
Paan Beedi Shop &Tobacco related years…….Richard was attending High School
business in Gulal wadi, Bombay: classes in the night and working in Bachoo’s
It is said even a disaster bring opportunities Garage, with his cousins, neighbors from
with it, Boniface attempted to start a Paan Kachhur and many other relatives…..Most of
Beedi and daily needs shop, on pagdi the beneficiaries of this home away from
scheme (prevalent deposit system )in home, 1940 – 1965, are no more midst of us
1940,in then Kika Street, Gujarati business today, but we are sure, the memories of their
dominated location, admeasuring 10x15 tough life shared with their respective
room, in the backyard and facing road about
children…..
8x20 feet front, backyard was utilized for
kitchen facility and beedi making women By the time, Second World War come to an
engaged at day time……These were the days end in Sept. 1945, a sigh of great relief was
of uncertainty, scarcity and unemployment, experienced with a certain promise of
as the heat of the freedom movement at its freedom by British…. and again, a beeline
peak….and all youngsters from Barkur, the of next batch of youngsters joined the
Carvalhos, Pinto, Fernandes, most of them bandwagon…On 15 th August, 1947, our
residing here at Gulal Wadi, Kika Street, Null nation India became independent country
Bazar, near Tamba kata, in Bombay, go down
and the newly sworn in Govt. introduced
area was utilized for sleeping on the floor of
various measures to encourage and boost
stones slabs….. An adjacent koyla shop,
Tobacco batty, baking in three trays…… business…. Many Cotton Textile Mills, other
breathing its intoxicative tobacco smell…… manufacturing units took birth…and Bombay
the scenario in Bombay &In the same year welcomed people from all over….
1940, on October, 25th Richard took his birth Boniface & his Sons in Bombay:
in Mulky.
In 1954 Richard’s elder brother Stanly landed
Around this time in 1937, St. Peters Barkurian
in Bombay and in 1956 Richard joined him,
Association was in existence and Boniface
at just 18 and in the same year Richard lone
and many of his accomplices from Barkur
were members. Generally, their meetings sister Molly, married to Augustine Carvalho,
were held near Nagpada, Byculla etc. from Muvathmudi, who was a Government
employee in Karnataka State Transport
Boniface and his small-time business were Depot in Hubli, as Electrical Foreman….….In
flourished in Bombay – 1940 – 55. Yes,
the following years, Sebastian and Francis
Richard who landed in Bombay, in 1956 still
recalls good old experiences and his Papa’s too arrived and father Boniface, who had
words of gratitude’s to Xavier Furtado and seen and experienced a turbulent past
Jonas Carvalho, who encouraged and helped decides to say goodbye to Bombay and goes
economically, to have this shop premises in back to Barkur, handing over the business
Bombay…… responsibilities to sons.
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As days and years rolled on, many once bigger role either, in arranging matrimonial
residing here made their way to Gulf alliances / to get married girls from Barkur
countries from here and some of them and around for Furtado brothers or getting
brought their families and settled in places
her sisters marrying grooms from Barkur and
like Kanjurmarg, Parel, Kurla, Bhandup,
nearby locations…...! He was a man of
Vikhrolietc.…Being source of livelihood and
after serving needy for more than a integrity and righteousness, in Bombay,
generation, the shop cum residence in Gulal helped dozens to find jobs, career and
wadi, Kika Street, was sold in 1978. accommodation.
In short about Richard’s Mother – Severine Richard has seen jovial and romantic days
Furtado, Moolky: of childhood in Barkur, with his maternal
Coming to Richards Mother Severine, she Uncles, who were very close to their elder
was from Mulky, while Boniface was doing sister Severine and eldest Brother in law,
so well in Mysore, the proposal was clinched Boniface – fishing, hunting, rejoicing during
by her Copper merchant Uncle and brothers. festivals was very dear to them and had
She was the eldest among the girls, followed
permits for possessing double barrel gun.
by Mary (Rosemary)united in matrimony
Professionally together they were rightly with
with Picardo from Barkur, was an
established Copper Merchant in Mulky and pioneers in Copper Industry to trial new
Anna Stella, married to illustrious Ignatius innovations in its process, introducing better
Lewis, originally from Honnapa Kudru. To and attractive designs and improvements…
write briefly about her brothers – Lawrence Business was in their blood and Bombay
looking after family owned agriculture and offered them the right platform, with the
coconut plantations, his wife from Tonse, establishment of small shops, trade.
Kallianpur, Vincent Furtado had a shop in
Bombay, his wife Lanie also from Barkur, Historical Barkur once the hub of commercial
from a reputed household, i.e. daughter of activities of Western Coast has become the
Vallu Fernandes, Hosala and Valerian who meeting place of two adventurous families
was a wholesale dealer of tobacco in – the Carvalho’s from Kundapur and Furtado’s
Bombay, by then a Lakpati….Michael married
of Mulky, to begin with and to expand their
a girl from Mabukal, Rosy Gonsalves daughter
territories of mutual interest in business in
of School teacher Hachhu (Alexander)
Gonsalves, also well settled in Bombay, used Mysore, in the second half of 18 th and
to own and rear quality race horses in beginning of 19th Century…… and in later and
Mahalaxmi Race Course area. Later recent years left remarkable footprints in
migrated to UK and settled down. Bombay, in the 20th Century, a proud claim,
Boniface & Severine – most respected as well as honor…. and gratitude’s to
couple in Barkur as well as in Mulky: Almighty Lord, as always attributed as, His
Interestingly, Richard’s parents, Boniface & plans, by Richard Carvalho, a third
Severine were instrumental and played a descendent of this rich and great legacy……!
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Richard’s Early Years in Barkur 1940 – 1956
From the beginning Richard was a pet child
in the surrounding. He was born in Mulky
on 25th October, 1940, in their maternal
grandfather’s house located at Mhataro
Kudru, near sea shore, a beautiful place
surrounded by Shambhavi River and its
arms. It was practice in those days, the new
born baby to be baptized within a week.
Infant boy was offered to Mother Mary’s
feet, in the historical (Estd. 1783) on the
holy altar of Immaculate Conception Church After being there in Mulky for almost two
and christened as ‘Richard Charles Hilary months, Severine, mother of three kids,
Carvalho’, in the consecrated hands of Rev. Stanly the eldest 4 years and sister Molly 2
Fr J S Sequeira in the august presence of his years, arrived Barkur, Rayara Thota. Around
God parents, Aunt Rosa Maria Furtado & this time, Bona, the proud father was in
Uncle Anthony Joseph Picardo, originally Bombay, trying to get foothold, doing a job
from Barkur, by then a Copper Merchant in in Sassoon Dockyard and always used to
Mulky, on 10th November 1940. His ‘cradling admit proudly, though it was crucial and
ceremony’ was held in the ancestral grand uncertain time of World War II, Richard
parents house in Mulky, Mhataro Kudru. brought with him good luck and better
fortune, from heavens, as he established his
paan beedi cum
other daily needs
shop & a small
size Beedi
making Factory,
with 20 women
engaged in
binding and
packing and 4
men helping in
reheating
process and
distribution of
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the finished products to other chain of petty family…. but being grown in a large family
shops in the city. in Mulky and suave, she managed it so well.
People have to travel by, time consuming Richard starts his formal Schooling in
steamer (sea voyage) from Malpe – Goa – Maryknoll School:
Bombay alternatively, tiresome break
journey of slow Buses, Someshwar –
Agumbe Western Ghats… and in the mid-
way, crossing many rivers by boats, till
Harihar and by train thereafter to Bombay,
midway changing the train from coal to
diesel / Electric. There was no National
Highway NH17, (now known as NH66) during
those years.
Still Boniface had kept the routine schedule
of visiting home either during Easter or
preferably Christmas season almost every In 1946 June 1st, Richard’s officially first day
year, though his business needed his in the Maryknoll School and he still cherish
presence, but family stood first priority for the warmth of Head Mistress, Ms. Stephanie
him….and not only his wife and children Gonsalves (1940-1953)who always used to
waiting for his arrival but the entire lovingly call Richard as ‘Mulkegaar’ may be
neighborhood. for his dark complexion…. and passionate
and motherly Class teacher – Ms Josephine
In the year 1942 Stanly eldest son was Monthero.
admitted to just started Maryknoll School
Richard respectfully call back his days in
(Estd 1940, by the then Parish Priest, Msgr.
Maryknoll as most jovial, and was taught
Marian Castelino) and sister Molly followed
among others by Ms Angeline Fernandes,
him in the year 1944 and tiny tot Richard
Mary D’Almieda both were his next-door
was more anxious to go to School, expecting
neighbors, Leo P D’Almeida, Ms Martina
more children to play with him. By this time Denis Lewis, Jethruz Gonsalves, Agnes
his brother Sebastian was born, in the year Fernandes etc.
1942 and the youngest and the fifth child
In 1946, there was only one primary building,
Francis (Franky), in 1944. As the children
with thattis used for partition, Class one was
were growing, lot of activities, play and
outside the large veranda, very small Head
noise around Rayara Thota… and Mom teacher office etc. First addition was built in
Severine had a tough time to handle the large the year 1950, to accommodate Class 5, two
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Divisions and in the middle Class 4 Division At home too, he enjoyed fishing, swimming
B, which was completed by Rev. Fr. Charles in the nearby river, playing in the Shimhasana
Nazareth. Sportive Richard Carvalho and his Gudde / Church compound, had fruit bearing
two friends were asked to oil (cashew nut trees in the compound. His passion to chop
oil for longevity and strength) the wooden the teakwood tree every Monsoon, to allow
beams, pakashe and reeps of the new roof it grow straight and from the top it to watch
ceilings during Summer holidays and the distant locations like the belfry of
presented cloth for stitching a pair of clothes, Brahmmavar, Rivers, Hungarkatte etc.
as a reward by priest.
Among the feasts Monthi Feast, on
High School Studies in National Higher September 8th and the preceding Nine days
Secondary School: Novena was very dear to his heart and
Richard was passionately attached to arranging flowers, in huge baskets was the
Maryknoll School, had to join National Higher real competition, a rivalry with
Secondary School, after passing Class V, in classmates…...!He still remembers large
pandi / boats parked near the
Ferry and Chinnapalli,
transporting rice, jaggary and
coconuts. Friday Market was
hisone more favorite place to visit
– as the market was full of trade
and transactions, whole day, with
beeline of bullock carts parked,
carrying merchandise especially
agro products from the backyard
villages and towns…..
Involved with Church related
activities, ready to accept challenges:
the year 1951 at distant fort for Class VI,
and Head Master P N Bhoja Rao, in High Richards’s house located very near to the
school was a strict disciplinarian. Unlike in Church and his mother very particular to
Maryknoll, here there were grown up send the children for daily Mass and prayers.
students in large number from far and near. He still has names and pictures of priests
Richard was a favorite of PT Sir Shri like Fr. John M Menezes, Fr Thomas A Lobo,
Mahabala Shetty, naturally a smart, sportive especially Fr Charles P Nazareth, (1950 –
and energetic boy, ready to climb trees, pluck 1957) who later transferred as Vicar Vara of
mangoes, Chikkus, jackfruit etc. from the Kundapur –Holy Rosary church, a relationship
vast School Garden, during work experience he continued even after reaching Bombay
periods…! in the year 1956. When Richard was about

11
14 years old, in the year 1954, Barkur Church of a new great innings in his colorful life,
celebrated its Centenary Celebrations, (1854 which continues till this day….
– 1954) with all pomp and splendor, on 8th
Being by the side of loving and caring
April, 1954. Almost all brothers were in altar
mother, Severine for 16 years, for the first-
servers Sodality and helpful in the church
time leaving home and hometown, Barkur
affairs. In the same year, in May 1954, elder
with a heavy heart, shedding few drops of
brother, Stanly went to Bombay both to help
tears and surely with some great dreams,
father in his shop and simultaneously
the journey with – Papa and just married
continue his further High School studies, in
Brother in law Augustine and Sister Molly,
the night, from here he completed his SSLC.
and himself was fascinating, and
In May, 1956, two big events in the life of adventurous during rainy days of June, 1956.
teenage Richard. First, he passed Grade VIII They halt at Hubli for couple days to relax
from Barkur High school and the other one and continued travel with Papa to Bombay….
his elder Sister Molly got married at the age Thereafter it was a routine affair on their
of just 18 with Augustine Carvalho, serving way to native, meet sister Molly and
at distant Hubli, as Electrical Foreman in the
spending a day while coming and a day or
‘Karnataka State Transport Corporation’
two while returning to Bombay, after being
Depot, hailing from Muvath-mudi, in the last
with family on vacation at native town
week of May 1956. The unexpected,
Barkur….
torrential rain on the wedding day, forced
the guests to halt overnight in the island. Richard, admits, he had his Father and Elder
Their travel by launch/ motorboat and brother Stanly to give him company in
crossing the dangerously overflowing Kollur, Bombay, a home live…. but there were still
Chakra / Halady River was a nightmare young and poor children coming to city to
experience. serve in Hotels, house helpers or domestic
servants…with no proper accommodation, to
Parents decide to send Richard to
Bombay: start with etc. seen them struggling, victims
of exploitation…. and probably this prompted
Boniface, Richard’s Papa was at natives to Richard always to show kindness and extend
lead and organize wedding arrangements, care to his workers in later years…. His
decided and informed just 16 years old
father’s shop and workshop had taken care
Richard to pack his clothes to accompany
of such poor and needy to provide shelter,
him to Bombay. Of course, Richard, who was
at least till such time they find alternative
fairly good in studies, wished to complete
arrangement….
SSLC in Barkur, National Higher Secondary
school, but respectfully accepted the A dreamer in Richard reached dream city,
decision of parents, to herald the beginning Bombay….and it never disappointed…...!!!

12
Arrival in dream-city Bombay:

Continuation of High School Studies in the Night & Helping

Hand to Father in His Business….01-6-1956 to 31-05-1960.
The early and crucial formation or teenage For the next academic year, 1957-58, he was
years of growing Richard were marked with in X, unfortunately, the permit to conduct
many ups and downs, in the life of who Classes for X as well as XI (SSLC) was
arrived with a TC (Transfer Certificate) withheld by the concerned authorities, for
passing Grade VIII, from National Higher non-compliance of certain infra-structure
Secondary School, Barkur, in Karnataka. Papa facilities in the School and to an extent, clash
Bona Carvalho, kept his words to encourage of interest in the Management Committee
the further studies of the son and sought of the Institution of the time. Richard was in
admission to Grade IX in Jawaharlal Nehru a dilemma, there were no nearby Kannada
Kannada Medium Night School, located at High Schools at this time, one located in the
Dhobi Talav area. Richard passed and Fort and probably one in Wadala Road…..!
promoted to Grade X, in the year 1957 May.
Richard’s Papa, suggested,
(It’s apt to note here that, Richards’s elder
switching over to English medium,
brother Stanly completed his SSLC from the
from Maharashtra – Pune Board,
same night High school).
for better prospects in Bombay…..
Accordingly, got his son
admitted in the St Anne’s
English Medium High
School, Mazagaon.
Here also a setback,
since Richard studied in
Kannada Medium and
his base in English
found to be poor,
suggested to repeat
the studies in Grade
VIII, and passed to IX in
May, 1958, (in the
bargain, Richard lost
two academic years)
then to Grade X in
13
following year 1959 and was studying in XI
better known as milestone SSLC in 1960 -
1961. Meantime, Richard took some tuition
classes to improve his English, in 1958,
which helped him to be at par with
classmates.
At this crucial point of time, Richard joined
Bachhu’s Garage as apprentice on 15th June,
1960. In other words, he was overburdened
with three responsibilities – looking after the Richard, appeared all important, Board
shop, going to the Garage at Agripada at 9.00 Exam and to his surprise failed in one
subject….Though he attempted in the
supplementary examination, not able to sail
through, and here he put final full stop for
a.m. till 6.00 p.m., coming back home, wash, his formal education.
change and rush to the night School located Richard at times thinking in the event of
at Mazagaon, at 7.00 p.m. sharp, most of continuing in Barkur, would have passed
the time walking. SSLC in the 1959 itself, in the same breadth
It is interesting to note here, Richard, learnt he admits, practical life in Bombay taught
type writing, during this time, by joining a him better lessons of life.We may not get all
School in Mazgaon. (In later years this helped we desire, but God always gives us what we
him a lot as he used to make invoices, deserve…
estimates, parts list etc. in Sewree Garage, He was not a type to waste time, though
in the absence of a typist clerk) extending an helping hand in Papa’s Shop
related work he used to handle in the day
time, before he reach School at
7.00 pm. Moreover, during free
time Richard’s acute and keen
interest in the nearby Lathe and
turner related work, Electrical
and welding activities etc.
rightly noticed by Father and
prompted him to propose to
learn Mechanical work, which
was more happily accepted by
young Richard by that time
around 20 years of age.
14
Inner urge to become a Mechanic & Bachoo’s Garage the right choice….

Crucial Formation Years as a Professional in Diesel Mechanic

Works – 15th June, 1960 to 31st December, 1967
Papa Boniface, heart in heart thought, rather of many reputed customers and a trusted
expected his son Richard, in whom he noticed employee of Bachoo’s Garage.
great potentials, will continue in his existing
As mentioned above, Richard had an added
business and improve it. Here it must be
advantage; he was a relative of owners,
appreciated, he didn’t insist on him to inherit
hence had easy and ready access to owners
it, rather encouraged son to do something
and seniors, supervisors and sub-ordinates.
interesting to him….!
Secondly, Richard’s Papa informed in the very
He took son to Agripada Bachoo’s Garage, beginning, my son’s intention and mission
and introduced him to owners – William is to learn over here. One more advantage
Carvalho, a family relative, from Muvath- he had is, Richard was an Educated
mudi, near Kundapur, whose early roots were Apprentice, who can read, refer and
same as explained in our previous pages and understand technical manuals, diagrams,
new relation – Richard’s brother in law, brochures etc. easily. Lastly, his soft nature,
Augustine, Molly’s husband, was the younger knowledge of many languages – Apart from
brother of William, sons of John Carvalho, English, with his experience in dealing in
Muvathmudi and John Rebello, his partner fathers Shop and four years of living in
in business, both welcomed this young man Bombay, he was able to converse comfortably
in their Workshop. A place normally meant in Konkani, Kannada, Hindi, Marathi, Punjabi,
for not educated or but less educated one, Tulu, Gujarati….etc., at ease and confidence….
full of dirt, oil grease and manual work, was Success in learning neither magical nor
very dear to Richard to learn the maximum mysterious, ultimately it proved in case of
at short period. Richard, a natural consequence of good
habits and love, dedication in what one is
Seven Years & Seven Months, from 1st May,
doing, putting both heart and soul in the
1960 till 31st December, 1967, aggressive
process….
learning and keen interest in Mechanical
engineering, in and out of diesel engines, While serving here, he secured the Heavy-
gear box, brake system, clutch functioning Duty Driving license, on 2nd December, 1963
was mastered by the innovative technocrat. and attending Breakdown vehicles in
He started from basics - washing, cleaning, emergency. In one such test drive, after major
and hub greasing, and then learned to repair, on a Sunday, one Truck supposed to
change oil, service etc. Richard always gives be tested, no driver available being holiday,
credit to this Garage, where he learned the Richard requested owner John Rebello either
maximum and grateful to all his superiors, to drive or accompany him, he in confidence,
co-workers and owners. In the later years, told Richard ‘you are an experienced
Richard has grown to be favorite mechanic technician can do it alone…’.Richard took the
15
Truck on the road and for a major round techniques, improved safety measures,
around Worli sea face….while approaching smoke control systems, adapted in the new
a signal, for his shock and surprise brakes range of TATA Diesel vehicles….
were not functioning….and met with an
In Agripada, Richard many times worked on
accident….Big hue and cry on the spot….the
road, as the space was congested inside the
ambassador Car was full of Gujarathi women
going to picnic or temple…being workshop, with never ending inflow of work,
Sunday….The news reached the owners and and engine room, gear box section always a
immediately Police, were informed and since busy, rightly for its reputation and reliability,
there were no causalities, Richard’s Driving he even dared rain / flood water to inspect,
License not confiscated or withheld…. repair and re-haul, service the assigned job
on time, in the open space near railway
What Richard says, this is his first and last station.
accident on Road, and checking the vehicle,
oil, water, brake and dash board indications Yes, every bit of on job experience in
a must for any expert driver or mechanic on ‘Bachoo’s Garage’ rightly made the young
the road. Later years, he mastered the art of Richard an Expert Diesel Mechanic on one
controlling the vehicles and stopping them hand and wonderful Manager of works and
using gears, an art he taught to many in his efficient in getting the work done from
garage, even customers in emergency juniors and training them on the other side.
conditions to save his life and most Richard was entrusted with the
importantly others….!! The advice by mentor responsibility of educating helpers, where
John Rebello, ‘Good decisions come from there were instances of committing
experience, but experience come from bad mistakes, and Richard’s nature to find ‘what
decisions…this is life, so never regret. Learn is wrong rather than investigating who is
from mistakes and go ahead….’is engraved wrong’, kept his relationship safe, strong and
in Richard’s memory chip. cordial with team and enhanced mutual
As the years passed by, Richard become respect…. This knowledge, exposure and
expert, in alterations to the Engine like, experience made Richard a tough man ready
replacing original Petrol driven, to Diesel, as to take challenges in life….in later years.
they used to import Perkin Brand engines Richard a man always carried a heart that
from England, which called for patience,
never hates, a smile never fades with him,
minute and precision balancing, while
kept his training organization at highest
building it on block, bell housing……never
esteem and reverence. When the day came
compromised with seniors to use duplicate
to say goodbye on 31st December, 1967,
spare parts, listening to the customers and
the concerned driver’s complains attentively Richard already created a place of goodwill
than exhibiting his own expertise etc. During and respect in the hearts of owners, co-
those years, Bachoo’s Garage was the one, workers and juniors. As it is said one of the
big name where most of the leading brands, best feelings in the world is, knowing that
both new and old used to come for regular one’s presence and as well as his absence
service, preventive maintenance and both mean something to someone….
exposure to understand developing especially in the set up one serves…...!
16
Richard the dreamer and its realization
Richard Garage Sewree 1968
From day one in Bachhu’s Garage, Richard till midnight or early dawn. People used to
has his objectives crystal clear. This is the carry bed sheets and take rest or just lie
right place to learn from everyone around down in the Chapel, veranda and outside
him, whether it’s from owners, seniors or parochial house, wherever some space is
superiors from one hand and from juniors available.
and helpers from the other end. He
Fr. Pereira gave audience to Aunt Anna-Stella
developed extra-ordinary calm and patience
and prayed over both mother and son laying
in dealing with customers….
his hand over their head and prescribed some
A break or a vacation of a different kind: medicine, tonic or some tablets and people
Richard was on vacation during Summer, used to carry blessed holy water. Instances
1967, in April / May. After spending few days of unbelievable miracles, driving away the
with mother in Barkur, went to meet evil spirits possessed by many, were
maternal Aunt Anna Stella, younger sister reported from this place with the grace of
of Richards Mother Severine, in Kallianpur. Almighty lord and intercession through St.
He stayed there for a week. Her son had Jude Thaddeus the patron…...!
some ailments and regularly visiting then
His Aunt told young Richard to meet and
famous Shrine of St Jude in Pakshikere. This
share your grievances if any, with the priest.
time Richard too accompanied them. In
1967, the place was not developed with very He took the chance to meet Fr. Stanley, as
rare service of buses from Mulky and he was made to sit in front of him. Richard
Kinnigoli or Haleyangadi. Not even a tar informed, ‘Father, by the grace of God I am
road. There were extra buses just to healthy and at the moment and for the last
facilitate visiting pilgrims most of them poor seven years working in Bombay as a
and suffering, on Tuesday and Wednesdays. Mechanic in a Garage. I am searching for a
suitable place to start my own workshop; I
Tuesday normally a busy day of prayer and
am not getting it….’ Fr Stanly got up and
fasting. Rev. Fr. Stanly R. Pereira, the Vicar
asked Richard to pray with him, once priest
of this shrine had a tiny Church, rather a
Chapel upgraded as a new Parish. Devotees laid his anointed hands onRichards head, he
used to throng in large number, expecting felt something is happening to him…..Once
solutions to their invisible sufferings……It the prayer is over, Fr. Pereira, a devout priest
was an experience of different kind…… told Richard ‘go in peace, nothing to worry,
immediately after the Novena Prayers, at within next six months God will hear your
about 8.00 p.m.Counseling and personal prayers and St. Jude will bless you with a
meeting with Vicar and this always prolong suitable place to have your Garage…’
17
Richard was feeling different on that day. Garage…. Interestingly he continued his
Following day, they attended the Holy Mass regular prayers and faith in self and
one in the early morning 6.30 am and one confidence was increasing day after day with
more at 10.00 am, received Holy Communion, new exposure to challenging experiences in
purchased few religious items specially a book Bachoo’s Workshop.
of St. Jude’s Novena, a bottle of Blessed holy Invisible hands holding Richard and
water etc. and returned to Kallianpur. leading him to destination royal:
Richard’s vacation days were nearing to One fine day, in November, one of his friends
finish and travelled back to Bombay by the came and informed, ‘let us go to Sewree, I
end of May, 1967. will introduce a person over there….’ Sewree
Back to work in Bachoo’s Garage, was an industrial area, located close to
Bombay: Bombay Harbour and port. Other side of the
Railway tracks all BPT Staff Quarters. There
Again, a routine life in Bachhu’s Garage, was a space and one tenant had a small set
owners told they missed these experienced up…. the other part was free and ready to
hands of Richard past few days. The owners give it on hire and Rent fixed was Rs. 125/-
had a partnership business of transport. The per month. Wasting no time or further
fleet of trucks carrying goods from Bombay enquiry, three months’ rent was deposit.
– Bangalore –Bombay were runningregularly, Hardly it was enough to park one truck
under the firm– ‘Uttam Transport’. On comfortably….
Sundays they used to engage Richard to
Once space was finalized, informed the
check, repair and service these long running
owners of the layout that from the New Year
trucks in Dadar, near the owners flat. There day, 1st January, 1968, Richard would start
were a number of offers to this well-built, their Garage.
smart Mechanic to join them with much
Once the space was ready, Richard has to
thicker salary package and facilities. Richard
arrange required tools, consumables like
a determined person resolved ‘if I am
grease, oils etc. for which he needed money.
working for someone else that is only in
He approached his maternal Uncle for a
Bachoo’s Garage’, from where he learned
temporary loan of Rs. 500/- and organized
from scratch to be what he was after six
much needed tool boxes etc.
years….He politely used to turn down such
offers……Busy preoccupation with Garage Goodbye to the Technical Institute called
work from 9.00 am to 7.00 pm and at times Bachoo’s Garage:
overtime and Sunday too on special duty kept Richard went to the Managers of Bachoo’s
workaholic Richard busy and tired. Practically Garage to inform them that 31st December,
no time to look for a suitable place for a 1967 will be his last day of work over here,

18
from where he learned a lot and invited them Once Richard accepted to do the work,he
to the opening ceremony. puts his heart and soul into it, from the next
day for the passing work of that vehicle. He
Richard himself led prayed with brothers and
checked the front axle that would open both
few well-wishers to Almighty Lord to bless
the spindle, and was able to find out the
the new enterprise. He wanted to name it
mistake – as inthe frontaxle, both bores were
as ‘St Jude’s Garage’ and for some technical
loose from both the sides. Richard shown
issues of rent payment; he kept his name
and informed the driver this major
RICHARD GARAGE. He sprinkled the holy
malfunction, in turn he was very happy. Then
water preserved for this day, specially
Richard advised him to replace both the
brought from Pakshikere St. Jude’s Shrine.
axels. Informed him that he can fit the axel
Birth of Richard Garage, Sewree &The man bought from abroad. He accepted the
on Job – a beginning was made…. suggestion and together they went to Khar-
A new beginning was made – owner, danda where they could purchase the
material, and bought it to the workshop and
manager, mechanic, helper all in one
Richard fitted it in the vehicle. The passing
Richard, had immense trust in God’s plan for
work was completed as per RTO norms and
him and it so happened, and a TATA 312 truck
the vehicle was sent for passing and the
was parked near his friend Mohd H Khan
mission successful.
workshop for some tin work, located close
to the Garage for few days waiting for RTO Word of mouth a publicity for quality
passing. Driver Vichal, approached Richard, work in Sewree:
whether he can do the passing….’why not, Driver paid for the Garage labour charges. It
we are here for that….’ But the truck faces was their first work, first income. Richard
some major problems, driver informed – ‘the knelt in front of the Crucifix and prayed
front pair of tyres getting worn out very thanked to the Almighty Lord and St Jude
fast….’ It was learnt that the truck belongs Thaddaeus for his continued benevolence….
to a Gujrathi businessman. Once this driver At this juncture, he remembered the great
come to know that Richard had more than sacrifices and struggle of parents who
seven years long on job garage experience imbibed honesty and integrity in service….
in Bachhu’s Garage, Agripada, it created a This vehicle was attached to ‘Abdul Rehman
big impression and confidence to handover Transport’ running from Mumbai-Dhulia-
the truck in this new workshop…...! Mumbai. He was very happy to notice that
The first job was in hand that too challenging the front tyres were not worn out as earlier
one…. Richard opened the bonnet and had and they are as it is. The Driver and his owner
quick check first. Nothing wrong was were very happy with the work done. Then
identified to the naked eye. he advertised about Richard Garage and lot
19
of work poured into the Workshop, from waiting to get their vehicles personally
unexpected quarters and it was carried out touched by Richard’s magical hand.
efficiently to their satisfaction……. One of the busiest Garage in Sewree,
Richard wanted to keep the garage name as known for quality and reliability:
St. Jude’s Garage, however later he thought, Richard absolutely had no time, and new
the Bills bearing name of the Blessed saint hands and trainees were added in the
should not be thrown here and there, and workforce. His brother Francis, who too
the related sanctity of his divinity…..It must trained in Bachoo’s Workshop, was extending
be divine providence, the fish market was a helping hand. Sebastian indirectly involved
shifted to a nearby location and much serving in a Boring Specialist. Later years a
spacious plot was available in the TJ spare parts division also in place and Stanley
(Thokersee Jeevraj) Road, Sewree, with same his elder brother actively involved in its
landlord in Kabali-wadi, in April, 1968. operations. It was like a family business as
Admeasuring 450 Square Meters. Though in four brothers enjoyed a better understanding
the beginning three people took it onmonthly of each other towards the general goal.
rentof Rs. 450/- p.m. viz. Avith Rebello, Mohd
Haffeez Khan and Richard Carvalho. In fact, Rightly, 1968 to 1975, in Sewree has been
Avith, Bus Contractor wanted the space to wonderful years for Richard and his siblings.
park his passenger Buses and later on for As almost all of them got married during this
long vehicles the adjacent service road was time. Richard and Saby residing earlier in a
very narrow…. For Richard it was a blessing chawl, moved to a flat in Parel Village and
in disguise and kept Ajith’s portionfor further to Mahim. Stanly simultaneously
himself, as fast-growing Garage needed for looking after father’s Paan Beedi Shop, decided
working area to handle ever increasing to dispose of the shop and concentrated in
jobs… Later the full agreement was made in ‘Bona Auto Parts…’ thereafter a full-fledged
the name of Richard Carvalho and Tata Spares Stores in Marol.
interestingly the space is still possessed by It is said, until one spread his wings, he has
Richard Devkiran (RD) Garage in Sewree. no idea, how far one can fly…! Richard, never
Within two years that followed, mainly accepted the definition of his life scope, from
thanks to the publicity from various truck others, it is / was his business and life, and
owners and drivers Richard Garage had defined it in his own terms. Try and fail, no
plenty of work and business grew and made issues, but don’t fail to try various things,
inroads in flying colors. There was shortage whenever possible and feasible will be the
of space, and many a times his Mechanics life philosophy of Richard, in Sewree and in
worked on the road…………People were the following years….

20
Richard and His Search for Life Partner:
As mentioned earlier in the previous pages, in the room behind the Paan beedi shop, in
Richard’s father, Boniface had a dream to Gulalwadi. The location though not suitable
see his son’s wedding, which remained for families, they managed.
unrealized for a genuine reason – ‘unless I
stand on my legs, economically nothing In May, 1970 Richard took off to marry, at
else….’ least have engagement this time, provided
he gets a life partner of his likes and choice.
A business started in the year 1968, His elder sister Molly was entrusted with the
Richards Garage, was progressing with responsibility of fixing an alliance and in this
untiring efforts and dedication of a team led process, Richard was tired of visiting few
by Richard from the front…. In January, 1970, houses of prospective brides. Nothing
his elder brother Stanly ‘s wedding took convinced or inspired our 30 years smart,
place, on 15th January, 1970 with Clotilda energetic, handsome looking Richard. A sort
Lewis from Mabukal, a staff nurse by of uneasiness or guilt, on the part of Richard,
profession working for KMC Manipal…. With that was a time, a rejected proposal, was
lot of work in hand, Richard air dashed to ruining the bride’s goodwill with litany of
Mangalore just for 4 days by aero plane, questions quizzing the parents and gossip
with a return ticket. Newly wedded couple mongers, to derive their own conclusions…...!
arrived to Bombay and started their new life
His sister Molly’s known sources just put a
word about a girl from a very decent, devout
and down to earth farmer’s family from
Matpady, a neighboring parish Brahmmavar.
Muhurta for seeing the girl, normally with a
team of four or six people not followed here;
instead, Richard told ‘I will see the girl from
distance, without their notice….’ At last a
special bride selecting or passing formality
was organized in a ‘Green Chilly field’. Yes,
father Barnes was plucking ripen chilies from
the tiny plants and mother helping him to
segregate them….our groom was busy in
searching the young girl, who was informed
that just finished her grade IX, panicky to
trace her nowhere……at last shyly, slim and
21
charming fair girl
at her peak of
teens, just 19,
made her appear-
ance… rather was
spotted, cutting
the tender grass
for the cows, in a
corner of the
field…. Whether
she saw our
young-man or
their eyes met for
a while, Richard not ready to share the secret
even now, but decided one thing, then and family, having five girls and two sons. Celine
there, ‘for me she is acceptable, just have a was the eldest and equally contributing her
word with your daughter, before finalizing…..’ best in agriculture-related activities and had
If the answer is yes, to invite them to come a natural like and knack for cooking. She was
for lunch to formalize and finalize the taking care of younger siblings, as a
engagement ….! responsible elder sister….

Simon Peter Banz and Veronica Pereira’s was Once the proposal was clinched, it used to
a well-respected family in Matpady. They be the prevailing custom to prepare for the
had agricultural land yielding two crops – big day, first wedding in their family, which
Paddy / Rice, sugarcane and in Summer they probably managed meticulously at short
Chilies, sweet potatoes, variety of notice, but nothing short to be at par with
vegetables etc... Theirs was a fairly large prevailing standards and customs…. The
engagement was blessed by Rev. Fr Alfred
Roche, OFM Cap, then parish
priest of Holy Family Church,
Brahmmavar, a native of
Moodahadu Kudru, Barkur,
who was a close well-wisher
of Barnes clan, now on his way
to sainthood…

The great three gigantic Bells

of St Peters Church Barkur,
were chiming with perfect
harmony at about 10.45 a.m.
on Tuesday, 26th May, 1970, to
22
herald the news of the unification of two Carvalhos, with all respects and honor…….
young hearts – Richard & Celine as husband Next day a lunch in honor of for newly
and wife, as the nuptials was solemnized in married bride their daughter and bridegroom,
the august presence of the then Vicar, Rev. son-in-law, at Matpady was organized.
Fr. Aloysius Rosario, who celebrated the Holy
Mass to bless the young couple. As usual, Richard’s concern for his Garage
was looming in his heart and not prepared
As the customs of the time, a grand
to spend time partying at native place, as it
reception was held at their ancestral
was a custom in those days to invite newly
residence in Rayara Thota, Kachhur, followed
by lunch to all guests, friends and relatives wedded for lunch and dinner in the close
from both the sides…. The new daughter-in- relatives…which was continued for few
law, Celine was welcomed into the family of weeks / month.

23
 Without spending time in merry-
making and celebration, immedi-
ately after wedding, Richard and
Celine arrived in Bombay with
mother Severine. As a routine
practice spent two days in Hubli
with his sister Molly and family and
entered their own house in Parel
Village, where, elder brother Stanly
In Bombay, though Richard’s father had a and his wife Clotilda received them warmly
residence cum paan beedi shop in Gulal- with love and affection. By that time Clotilda
wadi, near Null Bazar, Richard took a room was serving in KEM Hospital as Staff Nurse.

on rent near his Garage, Sewree at a place In June, newly wedded Richard & Celine
called Daghdi’s Chawl, opposite to Fatima invited, all relatives, friends, customers,
Church where Richard’s younger brother Garage staff and workers etc in Bombay for
Sebastian too was residing and by December, a grand reception party arranged in Fathima
1969 purchased a small flat admeasuring Church Hall, Sewree, which was also a
250 Square Feet, in a building Second floor, landmark celebration to remember for life-
an hill area in Parel Village, paying Rs. 9000/ time.
- It’s a meticulous plan and providence of God,
As it was mentioned elsewhere in this Book,
more specifically the blessings of St Jude,
Richard and Celine shifted to Mahim in a new
Richard’s business in Vehicle repair work was flat in December, 1973.
progressing steadily…

24
Hard life in Bombay:
From a Remote Chawl to a Comfortable Flat
A journey of continued progress, a brief summary….

clubs, associations belonging

to various parishes, having
the respective patron saints
on the high altar. The rent
charged was bare minimum,
with facilities for boarding
and lodging and a common
kitchen with a cook. Few
were bit spacious but most
of them were very small.
Unfortunately, our Barkur
Parish didn’t have one to its
It’s a common question, everyone normally
credit, but a few people like Richard’s father
asks, once one says, ‘I will be going to
Boniface, kind enough to allow not only many
Bombay…” is “where will you stay….?”. All
of his close relatives but also poor and
of us aware of this accommodation
needy people from the local town Barkur, in
problems and obviously, majority of them
his shop cum accommodation, located then
hardly entertain anyone in their small place
heart of the city in Gulalwadi.
of living…It’s very difficult to have distant
relatives, friends in their already congested Richard for that matter, lucky not to worry
about accommodation, when he landed in
rooms or flats, sacrificing their private life….
Bombay at his teenage years of just 16 in
Probably to cope up with these problems our
the year 1956, his Pappa Boniface and elder
ancestors from Canara thought of ‘Kood, a
brother Stanleyal ready there in the city. As
common rented house for bachelors’ or male
we recorded elsewhere, this paan beedishop
members, serving in Bombay, and those
and backyard was utilised as accommodation
youth coming from native parishes. There and kitchen by the family and others, primarily
was a time, all the way from, Colaba to these economically poor, struggling to earn
Andheri & Fort area to Kurla, there were such their livelihood and craft their future….

25
Richard was living here and helping Papa in Ultimately, a room was located just opposite
his shop related work in the day time and to Fathima Church in ‘Dagdi chawl’, in the
studying in a night High School in Mazgaon year 1968, close to Sewree. As usual, they
– 1956 – 1961. had common bath, toilets etc and the space
Meanwhile, he joined Bachhu’s Garage in also not enough to accommodate more than
Agripada as a young apprentice in May 1960, two – Richard’s younger brother Sabastian
while studying in SSLC. The daily routine was used to live with him, also extending a
quite busy, get up in the wee hours, help in helping hand in cooking….Richard even
the shop a little and rush to Garage at 9.00 recollects his early days in Sewree, as he
a.m. manual and hard work till 6.00 p.m. and spent his nights in his friend’s nearby Jopadi,
by 7.00 p.m. be there in the School…. Of after days laborious manual work, in the late
course, all in the vicinity of about 5 KM radius hours in the workshop, to save the travelling
and Richard preferred to go by a brisk walk, time….!
every day. This routine was followed once First ownership Flat on Golanji Hill-top
he stopped studies in 1961 and thereafter Parel Village:
concentrated more in Garage for almost
7 – 8 years till the end of 1967. This was the time, some small and
economical flats were coming up in Parel
On 1st January, 1968, Richard started his own
Village, around Golanjee Hill Road and
workshop in Sewree and continued to reside
Richard purchased one on the 2nd floor in
in Gulalwadi only. Gradually the business
the year 1969, paying Rs.9000/-. In the
progressed and it demand more time from
following year on 16 th January, 1970,
Richard and he thought of residing
Stanley’s wedding took place in Barkur. Once
somewhere close to his Garage.
this flat was ready, Richard invited his elder
Traced a small one room in Daghdi Chawl Brother Stanley and wife and stay with them,
- Sewree: in March, 1970.

26
 On May 25th 1970, Richard married to Celine ‘Bona Auto-Spare parts’ in Marol, Franky the
and the newly wedded couple made their youngest brother was managing RD Garage
new beginning in this flat…. On the other Sewree and brother Saby, thereafter was in
hand, around same time, Stanley too charge of ‘Carvalho Boring Works, located
purchased a flat in the same building but on in the Richard Garage Complex in Marol.
the ground floor, thereby all the brothers Purchased a Flat in Mahim:
resided close-by….
Richard’s wife used visit St Michael’s Church
Disposal of Paan beedi shop in Gulalwadi: regularly on Wednesdays for Novena prayers
Once Richard’s Pappa left Bombay for good, of Mother of Perpetual Succour and the Holy
Stanley looked after the shop affairs, but Mass. She must be finding it difficult to travel
failed to put his heart and soul into its all the way from Parel and must be praying
growth, and ultimately family decided to sell for a better and nearby location for their
the great legacy. living.
From the sale proceeds, Stanley and wife 1973, probably one of the most eventful
bought a spacious flat in a new building in years in the life of Richard and Celine, as
Mukund Nagar, Kurla, and the existing Flat their prayers were granted, they purchased
in Golanji Hill Road, Parel Village, given to a spacious flat in Mahim, very close (1/2 km)
Sebastian, who too married to Rita, a teacher to St Michaels Church and opposite to
by profession, was residing, with his family V ictoria Church, with a very helpful
in a rented house in Railway Quarters, who neighbourhood.. Schools were very close
was then working for Popular Boring works. and the locality was excellent for residence
Francis, too got married on 17th May, 1974, with close proximity to sea shore, gardens,
to Treasa D’Almeida from Balkudru, Mabukal market, etc within a walkable distance with
earlier were in a rented house near Mahim excellent road connectivity….. These merits
Railway Station, gradually managed to own and many emotional attachments to the
a better flat in JB Nagar and now comfortable place Mahim, still holds Richard’s family in
Ever Shine Apartments in Marol, near Church. Mahim only, though thereafter he purchased
half a dozen flats for children and others or
It is rightly said unity is strength, and all the
just for investment purpose…. In December,
four brothers had that tremendous amount
1973, the family shifted to Mahim.
of respect, love for each other, in business
Interestingly this apartment though just over
complimentary and supportive to Richard.
620 square feet, was designed as 1BHK and
This was the time, Stanley was looking after
the rooms are very spacious. This was an
27
unused flat, owned by a local Shetty family valuable real estate, if there, is the space
booked in his daughter’s name. he occupied in other people’s heart…
The other landmark development was the Richard, we noticed, a man contended with
starting of the Richard’s Garage in Marol, in a few things. Not a showman….! A decent
April, 1975 on the Marol Morosi Road, house, though almost 50 years old, in Mahim,
Military Road, near Borosil Glass Factory. always happy where he is. A daily walk on
Spacious 3 bed room flat in Marol: the sea shore, adjacent gardens, a short visit
to Church has become his daily routine.
With a vision to have independent house for
Today he can afford a big house at a still
his newly married son, Richard purchased a
better location, no, he has his memories,
lavish and spacious 3BHK apartment in
struggle in life, time spent with wife and
Marol, in a very decent Society. It was
growing kids…. over here. He practically
strategically located, very close to their
enjoys his daily visit to Marol Garage, except
Richard Garage, Marol. Somehow, both Kiran
in these days of unfortunate Corona 19
& Charlotte, were not inclined to settle here,
pandemic…. Richard, always grateful to
for two reasons. Not leaving the emotionally
Almighty Lord for blessing him with fairly
attached Mahim location and don’t want to
good health, over the years which he too
be away from aging parents.
maintained with no vices like alcohol or
New flat in Mahim – Opposite Mahim
smoking.Richard, a towering figure, always
Railway station for son Kiran and Family:
loved to be surrounded by people,
Richard always feeling comfortable and empowered, believed, supported, uplifted,
secured to have children close to him in motivated, appreciated and loved him in
Mahim only. This plot where the building Mahim.
stands belong to Mahim Church and its well-
One can notice a point from above that,
knit by road and Railways. Kiran and wife,
Richard’s all brothers, viz, late Stanley,
always involved in Church activities from
Sabastian and Francis, changed their
younger days, feel very homely over here.
residence, over a period of time, in Bombay
It must be apt to notice over here that, and moved to better and larger apartments,
Richard had his own contribution to find but Richard is comfortable in 1BHK Mahim
proper residential facilities to his siblings since December, 1973. This will speak in
over the years, for which the extended family volumes of the simple, humble and down to
rightly grateful, but for him, the most earth way of life….!!

28
In brief about,
A Close Knit Family of Carvalho’s in Mumbai…….
Boniface and Severine Carvalhos was a In 1960, the youngest brother Francis, better
devout household in Kachhur, Barkur. They known as Frankie in the family arrived
brought up their children with rich ethical Bombay, after his High School studies in
and Christian values in life. Barkur and he too made his beginning to
Eldest son Stanly left Barkur at an early learn Mechanical work in Bachhu’s Garage
stage of around 16 in the year 1954, to be with elder brother Richard.
with father in Bombay who was good in In between lone sister Molly got married to
studies continued his education in Augustine Carvalho, in May, 1956, (by the
Jawaharlal Nehru Night school and passed time Richard passed VIII and was just
SSC. Richard reached in May 1956 and 1956 promoted to IX in NHSC Barkur, continued
- 57 both the brothers attending the same his studies in Bombay Night High School) a
institution together, the eldest Stanly in XI fourth generation relative from Kundapur –
and Richard in VIII. Then he learned Electrical Muvathmudi. He was then KSRTC State
and Motor winding work, where he becomes Government employee in Hubli, in central
an expert. Sometimes, bad company of Karnataka as electrical Foreman. The family
friends at adolescent and youthful years made their home in Hubli itself and blessed
responsible for spoiling career and the same with two sons – Julius continuing to serve in
has happened in Stanly’s case, who became KSRTC and Canute spent a short stint in
a victim of vices. May be this status of eldest Bombay, now serving in Kenya, lone sister
son was a serious point of worry for Viola married to Robert Lewis. After their
parents… and added responsibility to Richard Dad, Augustine’s death, mom Molly came to
to shoulder the responsibilities of running Bombay and now happily living and settled
the Papa’s Paan Beedi Shop, and in the year with children in CBD, New Bombay.
1963, all the four brothers were in Bombay,
It is interesting to note here, father Bonnie
the baton was handed over to Richard, once
wanted, Richard to look after his shop and
Boniface decided to go back to hometown
business and had a dream to see his son
Barkur, permanently.
married as early as in 1963 itself, but
In the year 1958, Sebastian joined the Richard a determined man, politely turned
brothers in Bombay, who had his SSLC down both the offers, ‘ let me stand on my
completed in National High school Barkur. legs first and be a monis….’. rest everything
He had interest in boring and lathe related after words…..To concentrate more in
work and consequently joined, Pinto Boring learning the Mechanical works in Bachhu’s
Works, in Saath Rasta. Garage, responsibilities of running the paan
29
beedi shop, entrusted to elder brother Stanly, arranged to have a
in 1963 and Boniface went back to Barkur, Spare parts Shop
finishing a eventful innings of 23 long years. earlier in Sewree –
making him a
Once Richard’s father Boniface Carvalho said
partner in `Ambika
adeious to the family on 18th May, 1964, due
Automobiles’ and
to massive heart attack, a sudden and
then in Marol in
untimely death, a real tragic end at about
their complex, in his
60 years only, put the burden of leading the
father’s name, Bona
family thrust upon young shoulders of
Auto Parts, making
Richard. He has discharged it diligently and
for him as a source
authoritatively to see all siblings settled
comfortably in their respective life. Richard of livelihood, in 1975. Unfortunately his
and his brothers always miss their father, deteriorating health didn’t allow him either
as their lovely times of life will not return to concentrate or prosper. He breathed his
back…… But the lovely relation and missing last, 23rd November, in the year 1985, due to
memories of their Papa in Bombay, going to lever failure and survived by wife Clotilda
stay in their heart forever….! It was once a and foster daughter. Wife, who was sick,
perfect example of a cohesive joint family, followed her husband, on 15-05-2005, and
in business. very recently foster daughter who was fallen
ill, and bed
Richard tried his best to rehabilitate elder ridden, taken
brother, Stanly who was really intelligent. care by
Though shop was looked after by him, it R i c h a rd ’s
reduced to a level of hand to mouth and family, too
eventually decided to dispose that off and succumbed
with the to death on
proceeds pur-
15 th August
chased a flat
2020.
in, JB Nagar.
In later years Sebastian
he realized was almost a
the damages self-made
done to both person. An
mind and expert in boring works. Though started his
body is grave career in Pinto Boring works, moved to Star
one….Richard Lathe Workshop, then Popular Boring works.
was very opti- In 1975 -76, Richard started his own
mistic and ‘Carvalho Boring Works’ in Marol Garage,
30
which had 2 Lathe Machines, 3 Boring It’s truly a phase in life, living with
Machines of different sizes, 2 Lincoln contentment Richard shares,’ if I judge
Welding sets etc. He married Rita a teacher relatives and people, nobody is mine…on the
by profession and the couple has three other hand if we try to understand them, then
children - a son and two daughters viz. everyone is ours….certainly me and my wife
Renita, Nashwin & Anita, all learned and Celine and now my children Kiran and
well settled. Sebastian and wife reside in Serena, developed the habit to understand
Thane. Rita’s three brothers were once all our relatives, one to one, hence we are
trained in Richard Garage, now having their fortunate to be blessed to experience peace,
independent workshop elsewhere / Spare respect and love in the extended family…….’
shop in Kundapur etc. Small families are the rule of the day, and in
Francis the youn- these days, paved way for cordial
gest among the relationship with cousins as brothers as
brothers, very sisters. i.e. extended family. Carvalho’s too
close to Richard’s keep that wonderful, relationship with each
heart, followed other, Richard an octogenarian always enjoy
elder brother as a and feel proud to be a magnetic towering
Mechanic in figure…..boosting unity, co-operation and
Bachhu’s Garage, understanding…..As we mentioned
was called to help elsewhere, in this book, it’s Richard, a family-
him to run the man to the core, always takes first initiatives
‘Sewree Richards to exchange pleasantries’, greetings on
Garage’ and re- special occasions and feasts.
named it as RD Garage – (Richard-Devikiran Richard’s small family a Happy Family in
Garage) and the same was fully in his Mahim:
charge, once Richard established his new Richard’s eldest son Dev Kiran Boniface
and modern Richard Garage in Marol, Andheri Carvalho, born on 18h May, 1974, rightly
in the year 1975. As the days passed, he was inherited great qualities of parents.
married to a girl from Mabukal, Teresa Interestingly, he was born exactly 10 years
D’Almeida, and made their home near Mahim after his grandpa Boniface death an
Railway Station and then moved to JB Nagar. illustrious entrepreneur in Bombay and
They are blessed with three children two deservedly had Boniface as his second
sons and a daughter- Natasha, Calvin & name. A talented boy during his childhood
Melwyn. Now the family resides in Ever shine days, who had his early schooling in Victoria
Apartments, Marol and Frankie also stopped Primary School, Mahim, till X grade. He was
looking after Sewree Workshop due to aging actively involved in the Mahim Church choir,
and tiresome travel. altar server etc. and other pious youth
31
organizations in the parish. He
continued his studies in St Xavier’s
College, Dhobi Talav and then
obtained an ITI Diploma in Mechanical
Engineering. A trained expert in
Karate, Kung-fu and other martial arts,
Kiran is a passionate lover of music &
wonderful dancer. Recently SPA
presented ‘Kantar Fiesta’ in two
episodes is one such example of his
expertise and talent. Richard trained
him to be a good manager in his own set-up extremely good in studies and extra-
in Marol and he look after the day today curricular activities. Innovative, curious to
business. Readers can rightly refer his learn, his Dad Richard recollects, every
exclusive and exhaustive article – Richard single toy, especially, auto related ones he
Garage a vision for tomorrow. used to open and reassemble them
Married to Charlotte Fernandes, his heart- swiftly…. A passionate foot-ball player.
throb for few years, on 09-02-2001, today During one such high profile match, got his
an employee of well-known Singapore foot damaged and hospitalized. At just
Airlines Office in the Mumbai International youthful 18, his kidneys damaged, beyond
Airport. They are blessed with a son Ethan recovery. On the last day of year 1996, he
Carvalho, born on 20th November, 2003. He was serious and lying down helplessly in the
studied in prestigious Don Bosco School in lap of mother Celine. Next day was New Year
Matunga. day. Early in the wee hours, at 6.00 am, gave
Serena Melissa lone daughter of Richard and a loud call to his loving Mummy and breathed
Celine was born on 15th February, 1982. She his last. Alas, time, health and relationships…
had her studies till Grade X in Canossa Convent may be three things do not come with either
and had her higher studies in St Xavier’s price tag or the way we expected, but when
College, Dhobi Talav. She is serving for Tata we lose them we realize both the cost and its
Motors Insurance, looking after Car worth…..!
coverage. She is an expert in cooking and In recent years, the trend is to check our
passionately runs her own baking business roots and make family tree, genealogy and
with variety of cakes for different occasions Carvalho’s from Kundapur not lagging behind
and making tasty chocolates under the brand in this process and are coming together to
– Tockhlets. trace their origin, race, roots and readers can
Richard and Celine’s second son Kevin Ralph refer the Google archives to know more about
was born on 18th September, 1978. He was their historical past and wonderful present.

32
Richard’s Transportation business:
A Popular Brand on Road & a Boon to Many to
Earn Their Livelihood….
Richard Carvalho’s
passion to own a
fleet of Trucks, was
evident since he
patiently listens to
various success
stories of trans-
porters from his days
in Bachhu’s garage,
even earlier…. Most
of them started with
one and grown to be
great…. Even his
bosses were partners
Second was the second-hand, used TATA
in Uttam Transport, where they had School
truck. This was parked for repair for quite
Buses andlong-haulage trucks.
some time near Richard’s flat – Golanjee Hill
In this Case Richard made a humble Road, Parel Village - the owner probably
beginning – he purchased used trucks, either tired of maintenance cost and wanted to
redesigned them or refurbished them. dispose it off and Richard took the risk. It
had a strong German make Engine and with
It all started with one Petrol driven Bus – necessary maintenance work, it was made
Richard purchased it and first removed the ready and attached to M/s Abdul Rehman
Bus body and kept the front cabin as it is. In Transport for a fairly long period. It was
place of Bus body, he fixed a steel tank and transporting Banana from Dhulia near Nasik
converted that into a Garbage carrying skip to Bombay, given possibly best service
truck and conveniently given on hire to BMC thereafter….
– Bombay Municipality, which thereafter Third again a second-hand truck popularly
earned and become a perennial source of known as Rocket Truck, with Perkins Diesel
income…. Engine, but a new model, in good condition

33
belonging to a Police Officer. Since it was routine but ulterior motives of this, once
not that old, Richard removed the originally trusted employees led to lose interest in
fitted Petrol Engine and replaced and trucks, Richard sustained financial losses
mounted with Diesel. since one vehicle didn’t get transferred in
Richards name and the one got transferred
In 1973, fourth was a new TATA Chassis, had huge loans as it was hypothecated to a
driven by Richard himself all the way from Bank in Gulbarga….In the bargain, Richard
Nanded to Bombay, and body was built in has to clear the loan and forced to pay twice
Richard Garage, Sewree. By this time, for same vehicle….From every wound there
Richard realised both first Petrol Truck and is a scar and every scar tells and reminds a
third with Perkins, expected to demand more story. Richard survived and he turned his
maintenance, he sold both of them. wounds into wisdom….
In 1975, nation was facing emergency, Here more than he lost in monetary terms,
Richard took the risk of purchasing a brand the agony and pressure, at a time his
new TATA312. This was the time one has to concentration needed in Marol as well as in
wait for years after ordering and new Sewree, the Judas took the wrong route to
vehicles were in shortage. One of the Punjabi destroy Richard’s peace of mind….his family
customers helped to get this new truck. suffered a lot…..To cut the long story short,
Then one more LT1210 was added, this also of suffering in silence, in the end, a
on a new chassis a new truck body was built frustrated person took the unusual decision
in the Marol Richard Garage, NMT3522, to dispose of all the trucks he owned….!!
which was very dear to Richard.
Almost four or five years, Richard
As mentioned, this was the time, India was concentrated in Marol Garage, and his
a State controlled economy at large, still passion for trucks though prompting him
Richard had his plans to add two more every now and then to venture, he shown un
trucks, second hand, in the year 1977-78. usual patience not too carried away with it….
One Mr. Gilbert Lewis native Barkur, was the but prudent and practical…
driver appointed to run the one, registered It so happened, one Mr Baba Jaan, a driver
in Karnataka State. However, at this time well known during his days in Bachhu’s
Marol Garage was getting foothold and Garage, met him somewhere in the year
plenty of work pressure on Richard, in 1982, he had no job. See the turn of events,
shifting, establishing and keeping an eye on Richard purchased a new chassis just to help
Sewree workshop…etc., didn’t allow or keep his friend and body was built in Marol and
an watchful eye on fleet of trucks, by then First Truck in Second phase was ready
there were 8, one’ transport in charge’ was bearing the Registration Number MMK-
appointed, everything was normal and 1338. Baba Jaan’s brother, Nazeer also came
34
down from Delhi and set up body building took the
workshop in the space provided in the night bus to
Richard Garage, Marol, both the brothers so Barkur to pay
loyal and honest to Richard, more than his a lightning
own, Richard always recalls…. visit to his
mother, who
Well started with a sincere motive to help a was living
friend proved to be a good omen to Richard, alone…!
from 1982 onwards, he added one or two
trucks into his fleet, and by 1990 he had a It’s worth a
fleet of about 16 trucks. There was an mention the
ordinance in Bombay, that more than 8 years first truck in
trucks were not allowed to enter the city, the Phase
hence Richard smartly followed a policy to two, a TATA312, had kept a record of no
retain a newly bought truck on an average accident in almost 15 years, Baba Jaan too
of 4 or 5 years. In other words, two new maintained it so well. Its cabin and carrier
trucks were added and old two were made of pure teakwood, in Richard Garage
disposed of. These highly reliable and well- didn’t get damaged and was a proof of
maintained trucks used to carry load to superior quality of work in his body building
Bombay – Bangalore – Bombay on a regular shop, which fetched lot many such orders.
basis. A few were running from Porbandar Here in a tragic accident that took place
Gujrat to Mangalore – Cochin carrying dry during the holy month of Ramzan, in
fish. There were many instances, some Sankeshwar, in Karnataka, one of his drivers
chosen shark fish was delivered to Barkur, lost his life, who fell asleep while driving in
by the driver running on NH17…. the wee hours. This incident amicably
Occasionally, Richard himself drove the Truck resolved by Richard all the way coming to
all the way from Bombay to Bangalore, accident spot, from Bombay, dependents
parked the truck for loading / unloading and were compensated with an Insurance claim,
amounting Rs. 3 lakhs, to
drivers father.

Truck also had adequate

insurance cover, so the
financial loss, though there,
was minimum. Somehow,
this unfortunate accident
had an impact on Richard
again…. rather it was a

35
turning point in the transporting business, of trucks were TATA, Richard also had couple
deciding to sell all the trucks one by one. of Ashok Leyland brands in his fleet.
There was a ready market and demand for
Many a time a small provocation or an
Trucks owned by Richard, as they were well
honest observation, lead for a major
maintained using high quality consumables
decision, and the third phase of owning 2
and spares parts on a regular basis. People
new trucks in 2013 – 2020, has one such
like Sandhu Transport purchased many such
incident….to its credit.
vehicles from him…. Even RTO Officers had
very little to check during their verification During a Wedding Reception, Ben Lewis
procedures, as there were at least one or from Bombay, originally from Handadi,
two trucks falling due for renewals of Brahmavar, an old friend, (an old student of
registration and passing, were generally NHSS, Barkur) while introducing Richard,
exempted from a thorough check….! called back his association with him, that
his electrical components were transported
Probably, Richard’s passion and love for to Bangalore, Cochin, Ahmedabad etc was
heavy duty trucks to have first-hand aback to know that Richard Garage have no
information on latest technology followed in trucks now….! Soon, Richard booked a new
the industry, secondly to help two to three Truck – 1613, bearing MH04FJ-8944, 2011
people per vehicle, in total 50 people and model, which was sold on 29-06-2020.
their families, to earn a livelihood, and
thirdly, it was a free advertisement as all the However today only one TATA LPT truck, 2015
Model, still there in his possession, MH-48-
trucks bearing the name RICHARD’S GARAGE
T-8647 always giving Richard a proud feeling.
in bold letters running on the Highways /
At times, in his 80, Richard sit on the driver’s
cities, helped to secure more business in
seat to have a ride, five minutes’ drive for
maintenance / Service contracts from many
this ‘Truck Surgeon for 50 plus years’, enough
reputed and huge Transporting Companies
to check the pulse of its Engine, Gear-box
in Bombay.
etc, which saved life, valuable parts getting
This also added business to Garage during damaged, break-downs at distant locations
off seasons, to keep his staff and workers etc. Its Richard’s routine habit to verify by
engaged and a big boost to Richards Body himself, by observing just the sound and
Building division, as these truck cabins were checking them before it is / was released to
designed in Belgaum pattern, which rightly the customers / drivers - always remained a
gives a grand look to the vehicle. As majority hallmark of this Garage….

36
A big leap in Business:

Establishment of Richard’s Garage in Marol….

office, to pay the fine and get the
vehicle released….! Same day,
Richard resolved, this should not
be repeated anymore…. what is
the solution….? Yes, either to
expand the existing workshop
area… which was next to
impossible, since there were
jopad patty, public toilets and
other petty workshops all
around…. Next best alternative
was to look for a new spacious
This was an unforgettable incident in the life location..... and immediately Richard
of Richard in the year 1974. The Garage was whispered a word with his known circles….
full of work and the whole 450 Square Meter Richard had trust in Almighty Lords plans for
plot was occupied with heavy duty trucks, him….it is said prayers and faith both are
with no space to move the vehicles inside invisible, but both have so much of energy
the Sewree Workshop, in Kabali Wadi. Still to convert the impossible to possible….and
many Trucks in the queue. There were times, the search was on….many plots in Andheri
Richard asked his Mechanics to attend minor Kurla Road, Vikhroli, Ghatkopar etc were
problems, just on the Road,
which was not an ideal practice.
Once a Truck was opened for a
major work on the T.J. Road and
work was not finished even late
in the evening hence left there
itself, for want of some crucial
parts. Same evening BMC took
the truck by towing it to Worli
yard…. Next day, Richard has to
go there to the Muncipality
37
 workshop manufacturing fan part. Somehow,
he was convinced and was ready to give up
the title and Shanker Rao, managed to get
the papers straight and registered the land
purchase deal in Pune, admeasuring 2200
Square meter.
All above didn’t happen overnight, Richard
humbly recollects the help of many friends
– Ram Dev, from UP, who was in Sewree, such
a friendship, always telling Richard,” where
ever you go, I will follow you….” Had kept
his words and purchased a flat in Marol, in
a new building owned by Shankar Rao, close
to Richards plot. To help Richard, though he
paid cash and purchased the apartment, he
took loan from Bank by hypothecating this
seen….nothing was that convincing to take flat and handed over the whole money to
a decision…One thing was clear in his mind, Richard to facilitate him to pay the landlord
at any cost, will not leave the existing and establishing the Garage….
strategic Sewree location…. There were couple of small pieces of land
One Mr. Achrekar, who had couple trucks adjacent to this main plot purchased by
with him was Richard customer, who was a Richard, the one owned by Mr Agarwal and
family friend and a reliable person, the other Borosil Glass Factory, almost 300
introduced one Estate Broker - Shankar Rao Square meter and about 3 cents respectively.
Shanker Rao, already became a friend of
to Richard, in 1974, who was a well-known,
Richard, and Achrekar, were instrumental to
rather a man with high hold in Marol area,
have this plot in Richards name. Al together
which was dominated by Kohli community,
now the total 2700 Square Meter. About 2000
who owned vast barren land. Likewise, one
Square Feet of land was taken by the Military
Mr Thomaskar, an East Indian, too had land.
Road, while expanding, broadening and
Broker shown a land facing Roads, near
upgrading the road.
Borosil Glass Factory, in turn this Company
also possessed some plots nearby. Without Few more people offered Richard land here
verifying any records of title etc, Richard gave and there, like opposite to Godfrey Philips
a green signal. In fact, the land once sold to Cigarette factory about one acre and one on
a Keralite by name Philips, who had a small Kurla – Andheri Road, which too was

38
strategic for business….Once Richard
come to know that, his previous
employee already booked a land in
the vicinity, promptly stayed away
from the area and ultimately Marol
Military Road became his favourite
and fortunate site to develop it what
it is today. It’s a landmark location
now, with a Police Training Camp and
array Milk Colony, close-by…. Many
industries and Housing societies now
developed over here and in the past 40 years, was his assets and goodwill to have more
the whole area become modern and all basic and more business, as days passed on. As
facilities are in place. many as 45 – 50 people worked with him. Of
Interestingly, Richard gives all credit to his course, half of them were trainees, a
well-wishers, who helped him in procuring fatherly figure, both revered and loved by
this plot for garage, thank God for stitching his men. They are the backbone and real
some marvellous people into the fabric of ambassadors of his business……
his life…always pray for them to keep all his The philosophy, of sincerity in quality work,
precious threads always happy… St Jude’s personal final touch by Richard’s own hand,
continued benevolence, blessings of his using only genuine spare parts earned him
devout and humble parents, otherwise, a a name of most reliable, dependable, all
layman from Barkur, couldn’t own, almost an service under one roof modern Garage in
acre of Prime land in the metropolis of Bombay. The clientele list had both vast fleet
Bombay. For a man like Richard who fought owners and Companies as well as single
with his strength but not with others vehicle sole traders. There are n number of
weaknesses, since it was his firm belief true instances, even a written off truck, cases of
success lies in his sincere efforts not in new vehicles failed to identify the faults,
others defeat…. accident cases were given rebirth in
Richard’s Garage. Highly risky and
27th April, 1975, must be a red-letter day in responsible tasks of straightening of chassis
the life of Richard and his family, a dream of of heavy duty vehicles, using beams and
owning a land in their name in Bombay. A jacks, was one of the speciality of Richard,
humble man again leading from the front to who himself stand and supervise such
establish his workshop adding required delicate works, his accuracy and perfection
facilities under one roof. A satisfied customer just watching by naked eyes always final,
39
 • On job training to aspiring
service Engineers and Technicians

• Professional team of
generation next experts.

1980 to 2000, was marked with

diversified activities, almost all
were managed and controlled by
Richard, duly helped by his
brothers. There was a time Richard
periodically file Income Tax
and Insurance Companies in general endorse returns, other fees etc to
and accept his opinion on accident prone concerned Govt. Offices, for all the below
vehicles to decide, repair or scrap it…. mentioned divisions
In addition to repair and service of heavy- In short, Richard Garage was an umbrella
duty Trucks and Buses, Richard Garage set up holding more than SIX independent
compound had various inter related
units under its brand name.
activities:
Bona Spare Parts:
• Body Building Works - both new and
alterations to the existing one’s In memory of their pioneering and
• All services to prepare Vehicles for RTO enterprising father in Bombay, Boniface
passing and their registration – Carvalho, was located in the Marol Complex,
Facilities for modern spray Painting etc. housing almost all genuine Tata spare parts,
• Dust free cabins / rooms for Engine and mainly feeding the base Garage and general
Gear Box mounting work. public. Once, Gulal Wadi shop was disposed,
• Denting Division – To look after minor Richard’s elder brother, Stanley was
accident vehicles. managing this Store.
• Estimation and follow-up with The Celine Garage:
Insurance Companies for various
Simultaneously one more ‘The Celine
claims.
Garage’, was also operational, opened in his
• Annual & periodical check-up, wife’s name, was also doing good business
maintenance and routine services. at this point of time.

40
Carvalho Boring Works: pressure and non-dependable partners,
Richard didn’t have a boring works division Richard was forced to close the division and
earlier, all boring related works used to be again, disposed of most of the trucks.
sub-contracted through, Pinto Boring works, Richard Devkiran or RD Garage Sewree:
where Richard’s younger brother Sebastian
This was one of the best-known Garages in
was serving, later he was shifted to their new
Sewree for years together started way back
workshop Star Boring Co. for a short stint
in 1968. Once Richard started concentrating
and later on in Popular Boring Company.
Marol set up in the year 1975, Francis,
Richard thought it more than opportune time younger brother of Richard, who too a
to start a full-fledged‘Carvalho Boring product of Bachhu’s Garage, was in charge
Works’ in the Marol Garage yard and and managing the affairs for a long time till
entrusted the responsibility of managing to 2015. Due to advancing age and distance,
Saby by then well versed with the trade. They he discontinued and Richard and his son
had two Lathe Machines, 3 Boring, 2 Welding were managing with some trusted staff. Many
sets etc. Primarily it was catering the in- Barkurian’s served and trained over here and
house orders of the Garage and small portion mention may be made of, Mingel D’Almeida
in external orders. It was going on very well from Halekody, as Supervisor and Floor
till Sabastian moved to Dubai in search of Manager, James Gonsalves & V incent
better prospects. It was functioning even Fernandes of Nagermutt, Ronnie Pinto from
after his departure and Richard and some Benne Kudru to mention a few…
experienced staff were looking after its
activities. Richard Garage Private Limited:

Serena Transport Services: Probably this is the flagship company of

Richard with great ambitions, now managed
Yet another pet activity of Richard. He had a
by well qualified and talented son Kiran
fleet of own trucks and heavy-duty vehicles,
Carvalho. As mentioned elsewhere in this
around 16 to 20 on an average. Most of them
book, there are three well-known brands of
earlier attached to M/s Abdul Rehman
the world operating their affairs from here.
Transport, a famous transport Company in
Tata Auto Service Centre Car Division,
Mumbai. Richard appointed a Transport
(Authorised Service) in 1998 Maserati Cars
Manager to manage the fleet with cargo
in 2015 and around 2017 Harley Davidson
division and co-ordination with other
transporting firms. They opened a Branch Motor bikes. In the changing circumstances,
Office in Bangalore too and got registered this decision proved to be better to ensure a
few vehicles in Karnataka State. Due to work perennial income by way of rent.

41
Constantly adjusting its sails to changing Future plans of diversification and
and challenging times, today few of the Expansion:
above activities were not running in full
Kiran, computer savvy, always innovative
swing, for various reasons, but Richard
ideas in mind, has a vision to make the
Garage, at Marol remain a favourite
Richard Garage a more people friendly and
destination for quality service for TATA Cars.
quick to offer quality service. Transparent in
Its strategic location, spacious and well
dealings and fully computerised billing
secured yard, all facilities under one roof,
system etc. are in place. Every changing
ready availability of original spare-parts,
reliable and usage of Company colour of leaf is beautiful, and every
recommended brand of lubricants and changing situation of life and business is
consumables, handled by highly qualified also beautiful, both needs a clear vision and
team of mechanics and Engineers will add Father and son as team have it in
up great value and goodwill to every abundance… As the Marol Garage enjoys
customer. strategic location, it attracts many brands
and dealers to approach for space over here.
Use and throw culture, high dependability
and assured life of modern vehicles, Govt. Co-operation and Co-ordination with
rules to forcefully scrap the vehicles after other Garages:
using certain number of years, ban of trucks,
Today, Richard Garage, on Military Road,
(more than 8 years old for heavy duty) in the
Andheri, rated as one of its kind, kept the
city limits, high cost of spares, steep hike in
cordial business relationship with people in
Labour costs etc. discourage major repair
same line of trade. A vision beyond patriarch
works in these years, Richard observed and
Richard Carvalho also under consideration
he and his team too adapting to the changing
to serve the customers and society better in
conditions.
coming days. At his 80’s Richard, always
Baton handed over to Generation Next – happy to visit the Marol Garage and mingle
son Kiran Carvalho at the helm of affairs:
with his staff and workers.
Today, Richard is a relaxed man. The
Absolutely no difference in a man 50 odd
responsibilities of Garage handed over to son
years back, the way he managed when he
K iran, who handles with ease and
had nothing in hand, and today the way he
professional way. At times daughter Serena
behave, so humble and down to earth, when
visit the complex to extend a helping hand
Richard have almost everything at his
to brother in processing Insurance related
command…. speaks in volumes.
documentation.

42
Richard Carvalho’s yet another side of personality
An Instructor, Trainer and a Teacher Par Excellence
The greatest contribution of Richard to our
contemporary society must be his pupils –
hundreds of them trained, learned and
earned their bread and butter, made their
career, may be as a Mechanic, an owner of
a Garage or workshop, became owners of
trucks and buses, opened their Auto Spare
Parts stores and supported their families.
The lessons of life learned over here, ethical
values, the beginning made to acquire
thorough knowledge in automobiles industry, There was a time, some of the trainee
instilling saving habits in them to save apprentice used to address Richard in private
compulsorily a part of their earning, not to as ‘Head Master’, and truly one, his tall and
see the clock, when it comes to attend a handsome stature and appearance,
customer during emergencies are rightly the complementing the respectful salutation. ….
salient features of learning in Richard’s In general people say mistake is the first
Garage. step of success, but for Richard correction
He was leading from the front, guiding and and making them to understand or realise
directing his team, came to their rescue, in it, will be the real beginning of success, in
case of any complicated blockade, not only any field.
encouraging to take initiatives in learning In early years, 1968 – 1990, good number of
new things but also assigning such delicate youngsters from Barkur and surrounding
works to them taking the risk of costly places trained in Richard Garage, and
equipment and parts….Since he learned the thereafter from 1991 – 2005, big chunk of
trade in Bachoo’s Garage, and the faith and Apprentice’s were enrolled from UP, Bihar,
confidence of owners especially John MP, Orissa, Jharkhand etc. and dealing and
Rebello, in delegating power, authority and training them was at times a challenge.
freedom in working, during his time of Richard always a man of few words, was a
learning 1960 – 67, truly when one’s boss good human resources manager, never
looks for the good in his subordinates, they tolerated lies and laziness, he had seniors
discover the best in themselves….! at strategic positions to handle young team
43
and entrusted with responsibility as well as There were many relatives and friends, from
made them accountable. It’s true that Barkur, sent their children to Bombay after
everyone may not be nice…but there is SSLC even earlier. Poverty, more mouths to
something nice in everyone…Richard never feed at home, dependency on primary sector,
had a fixed image for anyone, because agriculture etc forced parents to approach
people act differently with different people,
Richard - V ittala’s sons Rama and his
in changing conditions…. May be thrice in a
brother, Celine’s two brothers, Matpady John,
year, Richard too was a different man – May
Mingel D’Almeida, few people from Tallur,
Day, Diwali Festival and Christmas, as all of
Sebastian’s two brothers-in-law, were just
them were in a festive mood with Lunch,
few names….Apart from this many started
Sweets, Bonus and promotion and revision
of salary package…..!! their career in long haulage trucks as
cleaners and now working as Heavy duty
drivers and even own trucks, tempo etc.
Richard always a happy and proud man to
watch his students grow and settle in life….
Once a straight forward question was put
forth to Richard, there is an impression, the
wages paid to trainees were comparatively
low. His clarification was worth a note:
• In his 52 years of running the Garage,
neither he asked people to join nor
advertised for vacant posts, whoever
approaching Richard Garage, is doing it
on his own accord or recommended by
people, whom they know us and in-depth
training exposure offered over here.
• As an entrepreneur, we take the risk of
handling expensive equipment’s of the
Garage, sensitive Engine, Gear box other
assemblies to such workers, an
opportunity to know and learn…. this was
primarily a launching pad for them. They

44
 never penalised, recovered damages from
workers, for any un intentional / routine
spoilage of such machinery, which costing
at times, more than their annual wages.
• This approach was followed in case of
fixing spares too, accidental damages,
breakage was ignored but nothing to be
hidden secret from the knowledge of
supervisor or owners. Richard’s personal
interaction with exceptional cases, to
verify the facts, always kept the team
under thorough vigilance. Honesty and
integrity were always recognised and
respected in his Garage.
• Most importantly, Richard Garage pays
whatever is negotiated and agreed by 5th
of the preceding month, so that, his men
can plan and learn to live within their
limits, even here, they were encouraged
to cultivate saving habits in the very
beginning of their career.
• Once anyone decides to go out from charges etc., which they returned only
Richard Garage, if he is offered less than after their earnings from abroad.
twice, what he was paid here, then
consider that you learned nothing from There were many instances, people served
here – that was the evaluation gauge, him visiting their place of training, of them
Richard had. many were in Arabian Gulf countries, Canada
and African continent. Richard used to take
• Richard never stopped any of his trainee
a round with them the Garage and showing
apprentice, when they decided to join
elsewhere for better prospects, even there live examples of successful life to his team.
are instances, Richard himself sanctioned There were many cases, these people picked
loans to pay for Recruiting Agents service trained mechanics from here and arranged

45
for their recruitment to well-
known firms in abroad.
Though, Richard can test the
pulse of such developments,
under his nose, still he
pretended as if he doesn’t
know the motives, because, it’s
the life of someone taking a big
leap in life and never stopped
anyone leaving for want of
better prospects.
At times exodus of key personnel had Mechanical Engineering College students
precarious effect in the working of the opted this Garage for their Project Works.
Garage, but Richard was good enough to
Many a time, branded manufacturers of
train next line of experts….!! His pet slogan
Trucks / Buses paid visit to Richard Garage
was “since he left now, you got chance and
to get the dependable feedback, on frequent
exposure, make use of the opportunity….”
break-downs, wear and tear, usage of
There were good number of examples, many consumables, like filters, lubricants etc.
students from Technical Institutes and
The value of both a Teacher and knowledge
imparted was realised once
you leave the organisation
or institution, and that
exactly, Richard’s majority
of pupil carry with them for
life time. Richard hardly
remembers even 10
percent of his staff served,
but 100 percent of them
deservedly remember their
tough, tactful teacher,
extracted best in them, for
lifetime.

46
A Man Whose Heart Always Beats for Barkur and
Barkurians….

Maryknoll School Barkur of students and suggested to appoint an

Our readers must have observed in our English teaching teacher and volunteered to
earlier chapters that, Richard had spent his bear the cost of salary, partially by himself,
early formation years in Barkur. Though some with a Fixed Deposit in memory of his late
son, Kevin Carvalho. All of us have two eyes,
people call it a hamlet comprising three
but our view to look at, is different. He never
revenue villages – Hosala – Kachhur &
stopped doing his best, whether he got
Hanehalli, for us it’s a developing town,
recognition or credit for it. Understanding this
historically rich, culturally vibrant, well
is an art and probably not everyone is an
knitted and connected by Roads, Railway artist like Richard….!!
and waterways, a centre for higher
St. Peter Church Barkur
education, from KG to PG… One such almost
near to a century old, (1940) Kannada Church in the home town too is / was very
Medium primary School is Maryknoll School dear to him. Richard has responded
Hosala; here Richard had his early learning generously for its needs, all the times anyone
till Grade V. Though he studied here just approached him. He was one rare
personality, who kept a very cordial
about five years, this school was / is very
relationship with almost all Vicars served in
dear to his heart, even to this date.
Barkur parish and still that true concern was
There was a time, English Medium Schools exhibited by him with regular phone calls
were coming up in the neighbouring etc.
Brahmmavar and people were attracted In 1977 – 78, during the time of Rev. Fr.
towards them and the very continuance this Joseph D’Souza and his Assistant Rev. Fr.
alma mater was worrying people like Richard. Henry D’Souza, now Bishop of Bellary, Barkur
SPA had MHPS on its priority and support in open stage, was constructed and Richard too
donating uniforms, stationery, computers etc. was a generous donor / benefactor. He also
was going on with the help of generous donated generously for the repair and
contribution of members and donors, which construction of New Portico during Rev. Fr J N
continues even in these years… Lobo’s tenure, in 1982.
Richard gone deep to the root of its decline In the year, 1997 or so, Rev. Fr Benjamin
that is the cause for steep fall in the strength D’Souza was Parish Priest and it so

47
happened, our choir didn’t have a key-board in Mumbai to collect some funds to procure,
and managing with Harmonium or so… much needed equipment’s like, Lathe
Sensing a genuine need Richard brought a Machine, Boring tools, Welding machine set,
Casio Piano all the way from Mumbai Press, Pipe Cutting set for plumbing and it
donated to church Choir. was Richard who not only directed the right
Almost a century old, (Built in the year 1923) source at economical rates, but also donated
Gothic style Church in Barkur, is an many good condition machineries used in
architectural marvel in the Diocese of Udupi, Mechanical workshop. Sometime back he
was renovated in the year 2019, under Rev. was happy to visit the Technical Institute and
Fr Philip Neri Aranha, its Vicar and Richard see the material procured in good working
Carvalho too donated Rs.50,000/- for this condition.
novel project.
Barkur Konkan Railway Station:
Sauharda Community Hall – Furniture,
Chairs and Stage by SPA: The man behind the construction of a
Travellers Resting shade, during his tenure
During the time of Rev. Fr Remigius Aranha
as President of SPA.
as Vicar, Sauharda Hall was constructed and
Richard donated Rs. 1.50 lakhs to provide Contribution to NHSC now National Junior
much needed Chairs in the year 2007. College during its Silver Jubilee celebrations
in 1971 - 72, and thereafter, through SPA,
In 2012, Richard was happy to donate
substantial amount for the laying of Interlocks his share of help while having a Class room
etc. His philanthropic activities continued in the Govt. First grade College etc are just
during the tenure of Rev. Fr Valerian few examples of Richard’s initiatives to help
Mendonca, when he approached SPA in the educational institutions in Barkur.
general and Richard Carvalho in particular, The CYM Barkur unit, Vincent D’Paul Society,
in the year, 2014, while constructing state Catholic Sabha etc were beneficiaries of
of the art and spacious Parochial House. Richard’s philanthropic acts of kindness over
Extending one hand to help somebody at the
the years. Richard never stopped doing his
right time has more value than joining two
level best things for others, sometimes these
hands for prayer. The above are just few
little things occupy the biggest part of their
instances of his generous heart for genuine
hearts and there are good number of
requirements of the Church over the years.
beneficiaries in Barkur, who worked in
National ITI Heradi Barkur Richard Garage in Mumbai, thereby an
It’s apt to make a note of this special help to economic support to their respective
ITI. The principal and few Instructors were families.
48
Holiness is not a private property of some, but of everyone who is
faithful even in small things and suffering……….

Rightly Befits to Devout Richard Carvalho…….

The Holy Bible speaks of one incident about not by God. God is already holy and He is
Jesus and one of His disciples called Peter the ultimate and omnipotent. The Alpha and
that Jesus asked Peter, "do you love me"? the Omega i.e. the beginning and the end.
He said, "yes I do". The same question was He wants everyone to be perfect as He is.
posed before him the second time and the He has the power to make anyone saint or
third; where the second time Peter answered holy just as on 11th October 2020 the Holy
"yes I do". However, the third time it hurt Father Pope Francis beatified a young boy
Peter because the Lord asked him in a of 15 years whose name is Carlo Curtis. He
different voice or rather Peter understood his has been declared as the patron of Internet.
He was doing small things i.e. being
faithful to his calling as a Catholic
child of God, and obedient to Him in
every regard and his parents though
he was fully occupied in mobile
surfing. He collected a lot of
information and data on the Holy
Eucharist and made various
programmes to be sent through the
current media - you-tube, instagram,
face-book etc. His body is found
incorrupt and found smiling even in
master the third time better and at this he
his coffin which was exhumed after a decade
wept and said, "yes, Lord, you know that I
and more years. His mother says, "He used
love you". Jesus said, "do what I tell you"
to pray rosary regularly and he also had a
i.e. feed my sheep. As a layman, we feel,
demand to have a new android phone". He
Richard too called to serve his men on this
is the first saint who is found in jeans and
earth and must have been asked the same
sportswear! A true model for the youth of
question thrice or more…not to give up in
the midway…. today.

As we understand Saints and holiness is a There are various types of saints. If some
vacuum created by the individual minds and are hermits, some monks, some priests,

49
 and conversant with God
directly or indirectly. Some
are ascetic, some are
supernatural and others
natural in a supernatural
way like St Mother Teresa
of Kolkotta whose
ordinary acts led her to
that peak of divine
providence and good-
ness and glory.
some martyrs, etc. who lived their holy Having read, heard, one can understand that
obedience to God and to their higher ones. all of us are saints in one way or the other.
There is a lot of sacrifice, mortification,
Everyone had his/her success story and
torture, sickness, humiliation and with such
failures, including if asked the thief on the
many aspects they reserved a berth high up
right hand side of the crucified Lord on the
in the heaven.
Calvary. Having mentioned above references
The saints are though at times unpleasant and narrations, I make a reference to a man
creatures on earth, but glorified after their who was born just like us and toiled to do
death and even they have a band of devotees his basic studies and lived a simple life in a
to whom their life attracts. People expect poor family life till he unearthed the
quick miracle, fast recovery and seek instant possibilities of how to get a meal a day or in
help from them. We know for sure, for their better words the 'life's' survival'.
good faith it happens. For anyone to be a
Many may utilize God for their lives as long
saint is not to think that I am holy and one
day I will be raised to the Altar of God! It is as God is a milking cow. Some surrender to
self evident that it includes values, life's' God for a religious motivation and others for
statutes, commandments and much more innocent fun and entertainment. However
sacrifice of body, mind and a total control of it's hard to digest certain facts to the man
the soul. In one sentence it can be said, the who has been driven by various and many
total dedication or commitment to God and torments of self and especially having a
God alone. family and its sustenance.

It is difficult to harbor all the spiritual and We are prone to follow faith often on the
religious activities of the holy men and word of mouth and basing on others
women who hold a creative concentration perception. Often we shake our faith and

50
lose what we truly to believe. Richard and Richard Carvalho had the shock of his
Carvalho is the man I refer today to the above life and he took a lot of time to overcome
narration and mention that he is a living saint and even today he has a feeling why me
in his own way amidst us. He is the man who God?.
is just like Job of the old testament who was The third thunder-bolt was the loss of his
tried, tested, tempted and left in the hands wife Celine, who left to the heavenly abode
of the evil one to be furnace in fire but his leaving almost alone, who stood by him, like
total trust and commitment and his will rock solid, a true life partner, in trials and
power in faith and belief he was not led to tribulations, success and accomplishments,
be weak by the Almighty in whom he in a rather early stage of his life. Yes, the
believed in. Carvalho lost his transportation heart that bears is the heart that cries in
business and felt like giving up the entire silence. Richard Carvalho is a man with the
transport fleet, by disposing off the 16-20 wounds in life but he found his strength as
trucks and other vehicles in which he was St Paul writes to the Romans, "The suffering
cheated and became a victim of slug. He was of this world is nothing before the glory that
desperate. Down with depression. But his waits for us in the heaven". A family of
'let it be' motive was his continual support prayer, started the day with it and went to
where he stood alone in silence and a deep sleep by thanking God, for everything they
sorrow which wounded his heart and 'self'. were blessed with.
That trust in God's providence made Richard
to rise again, after a gap of 10 years to own Richard Carvalho, might have had more
long haulage trucks all again….. opportunities to abandon his faith and follow
all the other available means to get the
The second jolt he had in his life was the favors and intentions and plans ful-filled by
best God gave him, and the best God took it the various and many deities or gods of the
away at a younger age his dear son, Kevin. world. Just like any other ordinary man he
He was his heart beat in whom he trusted to
carry on his mission with eldest son
Kiran and vision to help the families
of hundreds who sought daily bread
as employees under Carvalho
enterprises. God knows the best.
'We are the clay and He is the
potter' which is true and befitting.
We are no one to question His
designs and plans but surrender
51
 business. Though he
collapsed just like a
bridge having lost his
son Kevin, wife Celine
and a mishap in his
deals as an owner of a
fleet of Trucks, yet not
lost hope called 'life'.
Pain he underwent
through is true, loss he
managed is true, but
could have said, 'why God is not listening to his will-power in a humble way made
my prayer, why God is punishing me; Carvalho today what he is as a generous and
probably God is dead'!. But the fact is as a man with gusto and dignity. He is the man
God never abandoned Job prophet of the Old to be taken by the present generation where
Testament, He did not leave alone Richard loss is not the end but the beginning of a
Carvalho. God found favors in him and hence new era called 'hope'. Life doesn't end in a
he is today though broken yet standing tall moment but ends only achieving its success
in faith especially with the bounty of St Jude at the end. Hence, Richard Carvalho could
the patron of the hope of the hopeless be included among those saints of our time
(Pakshikere of Mangalore) and a 'queen' who whose names are not written in the pages
is of the heaven -and the earth Our Lady of of saints but living, because, he has a saintly
Perpetual Succour, Mahim, Mumbai, and our life in silent suffering, trusting in one God
own patron of Barkur, Apostle St Peter the and much more being faithful to the devotion
rock….. at the favorable Our Lady of Perpetual
Conclusion: Succour and St Jude.

Richard Carvalho though not a renowned Long life is a sign that he is still needed by
famous celebrity or a padma bhushan God to do many more good things in his life.
receipient; he is a great man of his caliber It is desirable that he continues it happily
that he still stands tall in his person to help even he crosses the margin in digits 80, a
the needy and the poor. Being born poor relaxed mind, a peaceful soul, a joyful spirit,
grown in a simple village in Barkur, he knows a healthy body and above all a heart full of
the pains and suffering of the people. He love - rightly the fruits of a prayerful
had a vision, a mission, and a goal to carry Richard's life, he shares with others, who
on in his Garage and Transportation are in contact with him regularly.
52
Richard - A Passionate Visionary for His Family…
Our readers must have read the feelings of as she trusted the best
Richard Carvalho’s son Dev Kiran and security for life is faith in
daughter Serena; in short it describes what God, and always en-
Dad is for them. Being successful parents, couraged children to spend
both Richard & Celine brought up their leisure time in the church,
children, giving them best education they or its adjacent playground,
can afford and aspire in best of the Catholic located next to house in Mahim. She herself
educational Institutions in Mumbai, all a member in Konkani Choir and all the three
comforts for a decent life, injecting in them children were visible members in the English
high moral and ethical values and most Choir team of St. Michael’s church. Both
importantly, guiding them with true Christian Richard and Celine, enjoyed a good loud
values. laugh with children at home and Richard
Richard by choice would have offered them even now continue this special quality and
luxuries of life in an early stage, but he cracks good jokes even over phone. The best
didn’t. He believed richest wealth is wisdom, feeling of happiness for Richard is when he
and strongest weapon is patience and he makes someone happy or had a loud laugh….!
instilled these qualities in his children since
the beginning. Their mother, Celine a devout Success in business knocked Richard’s door
and hard working at home, imbibed great at an early stage; one can compare it to any
qualities and principles in her day-today life, tasty dish. Patience, intelligence, knowledge
and experience etc. are its ingredients, but
especially for Richard ‘hard-work’, is like that
a little salt, which made his family life
delicious. Family had discipline, daily prayers
at home. Sunday was / reserved for church
and family. Even in their busy engagement
in business, for summer vacation in May
every year, the Carvalho family spent their
holidays at native place, Barkur with mother
Severine and at Matpady with Celine’s
parents and her younger siblings. This rightly
had an impact on children to keep the cordial
relationship and contacts with the extended
family. They seen and learnt from parents,
to be kind, than right.
53
 lesson all have to learn from the patriarch.
As we mentioned elsewhere in this book, the
two things Richard hates are lies and use of
duplicate or non genuine spare parts.
Probably these great values he practiced
contributed for the great volume of goodwill;
Richard Garage carries with it, as they built
bridge of hope on a sea of despair.
For Richard, the family life and business life,
never had contradiction but complimentary
Many a times people need is not a brilliant and therefore switch over to generation next
mind that gives sermons, but a heart that was smooth. Like father like son, Kiran
listens and responds, which was in
abundance with both Richard and Celine.
Most of the Good Samaritan deeds of
Parents were not known to his own children
and startled to know such act of kindness
from beneficiaries on different occasions.
There are scores of such incidents. Richard
privately just not shaking hands but hold
those hands in critical moments to part with
money, encouragement and spend time for
the needy lot. In this cynical world, many
people love or like people, as much as they
can use them, as such people’s loyalty ends
where the benefits stop. Here Richard stands
tall, he recognise, respect and reach out to
anyone irrespective of one’s social standing inherited precious qualities from parents and
and economical status. grandparents and smartness in implementing
those high values in modern business without
At early stages of formation years Richard
compromising the well laid foundations and
used to bring children to Garage. Seen how
their father, the owner, manager is working principles.
with the smallest person in the rank under a Daughter Serena too walking in Dad’s shoes.
vehicle. They have seen his patience not to
leave the field midway not resolving the
problem. At times his consultations with For forther details please
experts outside but relying and trusting on visit: Tockhletz (@tockhletz)
his experienced mechanics feedback, was https://istagram.com/
astonishing. ‘Teamwork’ was yet another tockhletz
54
Richard Carvalho’s Initiatives, encouragement and support to youth 1985 – 1988.

Unification of Barkurians in Bombay

persecution, survival,
short, very few Barkuri-
ans returned to native
town in the year 1799. As
usual they were always
proud of glorious and
historical past and
possessive of equally
successful present,
though today Barkurians
scattered and settled all
over the globe.

‘As the Catholic history in India, claims, In early years the enterprising Barkurians,
by legends and folklore stories, making tried their fortune in princely Mysore state
round, that Barkur had the distinction of and the surrounding towns, as Copper-smith
being visited during the early first century and traders. Once British developed natural
by St Bartholomew one of the twelve harbor city Bombay as the commercial
Apostles of Christ….’ Veteran Barkurian Prof Capital, in the 18th and more visibly in the
George V. D’Lima, Professor of Law and first half 19th century, it attracted people
Advocate Bombay High Court. In other words, from all corners, to be part and parcel of its
the place Barkur is holy for all religions progress in a galloping speed. Our ancestors
including Christianity. The St Peter’s Church, too were in the forefront to grab the
in Barkur though officially erected on 29th opportunities and try their luck. After some
April, 1861, about 160 years ago, as an formal education and very few with a SSLC
independent parish, there was a Church Certificate landed here and for their talent
dedicated to Patroness our Lady of Holy and sincerity accommodated comfortably as
Rosary in the 18th Century and history records factory workers, drivers, office staff… and
state that much before the unpleasant many enterprising small business like pan
captivity of Christians of Canara in the year beedi shops, tailoring, hotels, garages etc.
1784, there was a certain Holy Cross Church There were about 60 bachelors and a dozen
in Barkur, which was destroyed by the forces or more families settled in Bombay around
of Tippu Sultan. Cutting the long story of 1925 – 1930.
55
 There were some efforts to
activate it but as a matter of
fact, unless youth partici-
pation not there, it’s difficult
to run such Associations,
hence not yielded expected
results, and the elders and
Richards contemporaries
though remembering good
olden days, 1939 -65 the
generation next youth
remained un aware of
It was a practice to have common houses this….and 1965 to 1985, almost two decades
popularly called Kood or Club, for each parish were lost, without any organization….!
Shirva to Kundapur…. Few had more than
Factors contributing for the birth of
one…. Barkurian sankady Santan Banz had
SPCYA:
one spacious such Club in Fort, and two
small in size – one in Sankli Street and the Back in native Barkur, CYM (Catholic Youth
Movement) took its birth under Rev. Fr. Henry
other in Saath-rasta, area around 1930 -1940,
D’Souza, in September, 1976. The youth
which were accommodating people from
trained, learned and grown under this banner
Brahmmavar, Sastan and Barkur..... Meanwhile,
distinctly had and developed united spirit,
the shop cum accommodation of Late Bona
inbuilt nature of helping each other, skill and
Carvalho, father of Richard in Kika Street, talent of organizing drama, mega musical
was a place to live for almost a dozen shows etc., had to leave the native place
bachelors….which was continued almost till Barkur, once they fetch their degree /
1970 …. Diploma, after their College / Poly-
On the other hand, in the year1939, some Techniques / ITI studies. By the year 1983, a
well settled Barkurians formed St Peters sizable number accumulated in Bombay,
many residing in different clubs, some with
Barkurians Association and carried out lot
relatives and exceptionally a few in their
many activates for the benefit members and
flats or rented houses. Under the leadership
to support mother Church in Barkur. This
of Late Lawrence A. Sequeira and others, we
platform was very active, being a home away
united together to form St Peters Catholic
from home till 1964. Thereafter mass exodus Youth Association Barkur – Bombay during
of youngsters to Arabian Gulf countries for the General body meeting held at New
employment, forced the Association to be English School, Kurla East on 15th August,
dormant then on… 1985. For the official Inauguration Rev. Fr J.N.
56
Lobo then parish priest specially came to balcony. This great act of accommodation
Bombay and SPCYA invited Advocate George and sacrifice of comfort was noticed by the
V. Lima to preside over the function and Chief Guest of Function, Mrs Nellie D’Costa,
stalwarts like Augustine D’Silva and others Editor, in her address and recorded in her
graced the occasion, that took place in Gloria review in the Poinnari Konkani Weekly,
Church Hall, Byculla, Bombay on 1 st published from Bombay.
December, 1985.
That was the occasion to demonstrate
Since then we had a vision to involve our ‘Barkurian spirit’ in public to the
well settled seniors into the mainstream. Mangaloreans who attended the show.
Richard Carvalho was on the top of the list. Legendary Konkan Kogul, Wilfy Rebimbus,
On 2nd November, 1986, SPCYA organized to exclaimed, he had earlier part of many
present first ever social Drama, Mogachi drama with his songs in Bombay, and this
Deswatt, written by Henry D’Silva, Suratkal show of ‘Wilfy Nite’ by Barkurians was the
in St Mary’s Hall, Mazgaon. We met Richard first super hit, of this magnitude…..! The
Carvalho, to support us by way of an discipline, arrangements and hospitality /
advertisement in our Souvenir, which he service of SPCYA Members as volunteers,
happily obliged and attended the drama with was another highlight, later on imitated by
family. Shri AT Picardo, who was the Chief many organizers……What else is expected
Guest for this public show, called back his by us as organizers….? With just two public
days in earlier Association and the seniors functions SPCYA shot to fame……!! The
from Barkur, who were there as spectators Souvenir brought out in 1987 yet again a
encouraged to involve and co-operate with success story…..!!!
youth….. Meantime, our President and other
Office bearers kept the rapport and regular Mission Unification of all Barkurians in
contacts with these seniors, during family Mumbai:
functions and weddings to appraise the After the above there is no looking back, we
SPCYA and its developments. caught hold of Augustine D’Silva, Richard
In 1987, 7th November, a grand ‘Wilfy Nite’ Carvalho, Simplen Sequeira, Felix Barnes,
was organized in the same hall, since rather they hold us close, and we arranged
previous year’s show was Houseful, and a Meeting over Dinner at Dadar Hotel.
many had to return, disappointed, this time, Rev. Fr Henry D’Souza who was in Mumbai
more than 400 seats were reserved and sold for some important CBCI related meeting got
in advance to all Barkurians only. Even this the news of this Get Together and we feel it
Nite was again a Houseful and learning from a divine providence, he was able to make it
the experience, first time, another 100 and very happy to be midst of us….. what
spectators, over and above its seating followed was miracle…… About two dozen
capacity, were allowed to enter the elders in George V D’Lima, Augustine D’Silva,
auditorium, with a request to Barkurians to Jerry Sequeira, middle aged Richard
stand and watch from the side wings and Carvalho, Simplen Sequeira, Felix Barnes,
57
Henry Roche, John Menezes, enthusiastic accounts and dissolving their earlier
young team comprising – our Founder identities into one giant platform.
President Lawrence A Sequeira, Archibald
Promotion and Formation of SPA Barkur
Furtado, then President of SPCYA, Vincent
– Mumbai in 1988:
D’Almeida, General Secretary, Ivan. M.
Rebello, John F Gonsalves, Eric L Carvalho, Here start the real, dedicated and untiring
Sylvan D’Almeida, Peter Fernandes, Wilfred efforts of Richard Carvalho. By nature he is
Sequeira, Norman T D’Souza, Mark a soft spoken person. It must be noted over
Gonsalves, Melwyn Suares were the witness here, after the ‘Dadar Declaration’, almost
for historical decision of great coming all Meetings were held in the office
together of prominent leaders of three premises of Richard Garage, in Marol
generations. V illage, Andheri East to draft byelaws,
Consequently, Edwin Sequeira, Alwyn Articles of Association and to organize all
D’Souza and few other likeminded people important Get Together of Barkurians on 17th
were teamed up with us to work out April, 1988.
modalities to form ‘St. Peter’s Association
Barkur – Mumbai’, by merging St Peters All arrangements of Thanksgiving Holy Mass
Barkurian Association, the SPCYA into one, at Victoria Church, Meeting of the Executive
by transferring the funds in their respective Council over Breakfast, Inauguration of St
Peters Association Barkur – Mumbai, in
the Victoria Church Auditorium, Lunch
for all Guests, Parishioners of Barkur,
special Guests from native Barkur and
friends and well-wishers, which
accounted for more than 400 people
under one roof.
Rev. Fr Juje D’Souza, native neighboring
Sastan parish and then Vicar of Worli
Church, Mumbai, Rev. Fr Henry Sequeira,
from Mangalore, spoke highly about the
historic event and wished all success.
On this auspicious occasion, Augustine
D’Silva took charge as President,
Richard Carvalho as Vice President and
Archibald Furtado as General Secretary,
Lawrence A Sequeira, as Treasurer with
other office bearers and members in the
Founder’s Executive Council.

58
As Founder Vice President of SPA Barkur Mumbai….
Continue in this prestigious position for a record, almost 18 long years…

Management Committee members were

more than just generous to contribute
financially, people like Richard Carvalho,
rendering his services as V ice
President, approached their friends and
businessman to extend a helping hand.
A Wilfy Nite was organized at Shri
Bhaidas Magnalal Sabha Griha in Juhu
Development Scheme Vile Parle West
on 26th October, 1989 at 8.00 p.m. in an
Auditorium with more seats and Air condition
facilities.
Meanwhile a residential flat was purchased
in the year 1989, costing Rs. 3.00 lakhs
Once the formal inauguration of SPA Barkur admeasuring 1090 square feet, in Rose
Mumbai was held on 17th April, 1988, the Nagar, Opp. Syndicate Bank, Naigaon, West,
activities of the association was in full swing. Vasai Western Railway, Thane, to have the
First and top most priority was to have a facility to accommodate 25 – 30 youngsters.
Hostel or Kood for Youth in Mumbai. 26th January, 1990, rightly a red letter day in
Meanwhile, the SPA Executive Council decided the history of SPA in Mumbai – Barkurians
to entrust the responsibilities to lead from the were celebrating with the inauguration of
front as President to Simplen Sequeira. A Hostel for Youth in Naigaon. A dream
retired Banker, served as Manager in Bank of realized, a project involving big money
India, had rich experience to his credit in completed. Many generous hands and
Financial Management, was by then a creative minds worked in union with the
blessings of almighty Lord through our
prominent name in Real estate business in
Patron St. Peter the Apostle. Funds were also
Mumbai Suburbs - Vasai Road and Naigaon.
collected from all possible means and
SPA presented its maiden Public Entertainment involvement of kind hearted people was
programme in November, 1988, Henry Nite enormous and praiseworthy. The Hostel was
with a farce Tamaso by our members and few having all modern facilities for kitchen,
guest artists like, Harryboy in St Mary’s Hall dining and relaxation. In later years, many
Mazgaon, on 13th November, 1988, which was Get Together, and Celebrations like Patrons
as usual a third in a row Houseful event. Feast etc. were held over here…..it
59
developed as a picnic spot
and many Barkurians too
were residing in the same
complex in their indepe-
ndent flats.
SPA kept the tradition live,
to present one quality
Entertainment Programme
every year during Diwali
holidays around first week
of November. As many as 8
times Wilfy Nite, Fr Charles
Vaz Baila show, W ilson
Olivera Nite, Mand
Sobhann (twice) by Eric Ozario and team, was evident from above, variety and choice
Melwyn Peris Nite, Mega Johnny Lever show for different tastes and preferences. It has
Aap ke Khatir, at famous, prestigious and become a routine affair for all Barkurians
spacious ‘Shanmukananda Hall’, Matunga, with their family and friends to gather at
Victor Concesso Nite etc. are just few of least twice in every year, in first week of July
them. Konkani plays were also arranged and for Patron St Peters Titular feast and in
our members too acted in them. Mention may November to witness a quality Entertaining
be made of – Kazara Upranth, Tamaso, event.
Lottery Laagli, Konn Jikta, Hasnatllo to Piso, Richard Carvalho, being an old student of
Ani Char Vaztana, Ghott Dhar Sodinaka,
Maryknoll School, Barkur, the welfare and its
Mhataro Chorbela, Konni Sama Naanth and
continuance was a matter of special
so on so forth…..
concern, and he was instrumental to
SPA s passion for the promotion of all forms organize fund for Uniforms, Stationary etc.
of Indian art, stage shows etc. in general Whenever on leave, made it a point to pay a
and Konkani cultural activities in particular, visit to this alma mater and helped financially
to tide over difficult times…..
The mother parish and St Peter Church was
very sacred to Richard a devotee of Mother
Mary, was first to respond to the genuine
needs. He was a benefactor of Open Stage
built in the year 1978, the CYM, Catholic
Sabha, St Vincent D’Paul Society and other
social platforms too were patronized during
their needs.
60
A Flashback:

Richard Carvalho as President, of SPA

July 2006 to 2nd July, 2011
Undoubtedly, the tenure of Six Great Years from Barkur used to reside in the Hostel,
of Mr. Carvalho as President of St Peters which has to run on its own with utility bills
Association Barkur - Mumbai, gone into etc. tobe recovered and sourced from
records as most vibrant and full of unique Members monthly rent. Secondly, its location
achievements. He used to push his ideas, was far away from City as the travel cost
while serving as Vice President, and many and time was comparatively high for just
of them seen materialized and at times all arrived youngsters from native place. Still the
of his proposals didn’t see light. Once he doors of Hostel opened for candidates from
was elevated to the post of President, most neighboringparishes; such aspirants were
of the unrealized plans and new ideas again first looking for Clubs in nearer locations in
presented in the office bearers’ meetings Andheri, Bandra, Kurla, Byculla etc. After
with refreshed gusto and energy. Within the bearing the overhead cost by Association
broad objectives, defined in the Articles / itself for still few more years, at last decided
Bye laws, Richard Carvalho had clarity in his to sell the property. People like Richard
projects and interestingly, they were Carvalho and few others suggesting having
focused both Mumbai and native town Hostel, though not large, in better locations,
Barkur. with a portion of the proceeds purchased a
two-room facility house, with kitchen and
He always acknowledges the co-operation
washrooms, in a decent chawl in Chakala,
and spirit of accommodation evident among
Andheri East opposite Godfrey Philips
the members in the working of the
Cigarette Factory, next to Cardinal Gracious
Association, Barkurian spirit of sharing and
Road.
caring for each other, and the coordination
as well as cohesiveness of youth with This got bit renovated and refurbished to
seniors, and as a whole its Almighty’s plans utilize as Office for SPA and Rev. Fr Donath
Richard humbly accept, we just as his D’Souza, a well-wisher of Barkurians,
instruments….! originally from Udyavara parish, then serving
as Parish Priest of St Michael’s Church,
i) Search for an Office space in the city:
blessed the same for use on 14th May, 2006.
As aware, the SPA Hostel which also used In fact, this place was searched and
as Office was reluctantly disposed of for two negotiated for immediate purchase through
reasons: there were no or just few youths his friends.

61
ii) Registration of the Association as per a in-depth information of SPA manifold
Trust and its procedures: activities in Mumbai and Barkur for 20 years
This work pending and earlier registration 1988 – 2008 and nostalgic SPCYA years of
done in 2003 was having Naigaon and Thane 1985 – 1988.
jurisdiction, was taken up by Richard to It must be noteworthy, in similar conditions
expedite through his contacts in Churchgate in December 2003, SPA sponsored one
Registration Office. It’s a point of reputation special issue, to support the parent Church
as well as encouragement to donors, to fetch economically, in Barkur.
a Receipt for their contribution and record. iv) Arranging to appoint an English
Andheri Chakala Office now serves as its teaching teacher in Maryknoll School
Registered Office, and various periodical Barkur:
meetings also held over here. Arrangements
are in place to file annual returns, copies of
reports and resolutions as per the law of the
land, applicable to such non trading
establishments.
iii) Special edition of Pedruchi Chavi
December, 2007:
This was the time, the Parish Magazine was
sailing in troubled waters with absolutely no
fund to publish, though the number of issues
restricted to just two in a calendar year, June
/ Dec. Pedruchi Chavi, one of the first parish
bulletins, by then seen 8th year of publication, Being a Kannada medium School, Maryknoll
started in the year 2000 by Rev. Fr Benjamin is/was finding it difficult to attract new
D’Souza, then Parish Priest of Barkur and students. There prevalent tough competitions
edited by Sr Margarita in the initial years. from English medium Schools as well as Govt.
Schools with in the town, which were offering
SPA rose to the occasion and a handsome
free food, transport, stationery uniform etc.
160 pages issue was brought out, as Vincent to convince and persuade the parents to
Fernandes as Honorary Editor and his team, send their children to Maryknoll. Today,
with local editorial team under Reena among Kannada schools this institution is
D’Almeida, collecting a substantial amount rightly rated on top slot, with excellent
of funds to overcome the debts and energize teaching staff under able and dynamic HM.
future flow of publications. People and To overcome the English barricade, the
parishioners still recollect the variety of School introduced special English classes
articles appeared overthere especially the from Grade I, and the fees of the teacher
62
was paid from the FD deposits kept by SPA
for this purpose.
Personally, Richard Carvalho very much
attached to this Institution, as its ex-
student in 1946 – 50, donating Rs. 10,000/
- every year in memory of his late son
Kevin Carvalho.
v) First ever Family Picnic to Lonavala:
Richard Carvalho is known for thinking out
of box and he proposed to the Managing
Committee to organize an overnight Yet again a new innovative idea, from Richard
picnic to nearby Hill station to relax and & Team, probably first time in the then
refresh from the clutches of busy, routine Diocese of Mangalore, that an Association
and mechanical life in Mumbai. Thereafter all the way from Mumbai coming forward to
this picnic, the SPA is regularly conducting celebrate Annual Feast. The whole
such outings and excursions for rejoicing in Management Committee was present during
the company of fellow Barkurians, both young these four days from Corpus Christi,
and elderly and children enjoying the fun to Confraternity Sunday to Wednesday the Feast
the brim…. day, in Barkur, wearing the red collar around
and in rotation holding the honored Varibodi,
vi) As Pirjenth for Vohdlen festh – signifying the all dignity, pomp and splendor.
Sponsoring to celebrate Annual Parish
There was Festal Lunch in the Sauharda Hall
Feast in December 2008:
on Tuesday for all Parishioners and night
Dinner at Richard Carvalho’s
residence in their ancestral
house in Kachhur, Rayara Thota.
The tradition was just begun and
thereafter many Parishes coming
forward to follow SPA example of
collective responsibilities and
celebration with all glory and
gratitude’s to the Triune God
through Patron Apostle St Peter,
the first Pope of the Catholic
Church. Richard always recalls
the co-operation, guidance and
63
encouragement of then Parish Priest V. Rev.
Fr RCM Aranha for this wonderful
opportunity and SPA team as a whole for
making it a grand event.
vii) Donating a Resting Shade (A kutira) in
Konkan Railway Station Barkur:
Every year the
number of long
journey commuters
travelling through
Barkur Railway is flavor, a day people longing for…. always
increasing, with packed with mixed bag of fun and frolic….
more connectivity to other cities like Bombay, Richard Carvalho, has donated and helped
Goa, Bangalore, Trivandrum, Chennai etc.….
in negotiating best deals to procure, lathe
Railway platform is very long with very small
machine, Press, welding Sets, other
shade. Traveler’s finding it difficult to run
with luggage to catch trains within short halt, accessories, tools and equipment’s
especially aged and children. generally used in training in a Mechanical
Workshop, for the benefit of National ITI
The SPA members too experienced this and
students in Heradi Barkur.
thought of providing a Shelter with sitting
facilities. Thereafter few more such shades Richard Carvalho’s unique feature, his
were constructed by other socially concerned simplicity, humble nature, helping hand, a
people and organizations, is a welcome generous heart - always appreciated and
development. recognized by all priests served in Barkur
Conclusion: from late Rev. Fr Joseph D’Souza, late Rev.
Fr J N Lobo, late Rev. Fr Mark D’Sa, late Rev.
The above are just few highlights of varied
Fr Sylvester D’Souza, and continued during
work initiated under Richard’s leadership,
the days of Rev. Fr Benjamin D’Souza, Rev.
however, many and routine programmes such
Fr RCM Aranha, Rev. Fr Alban D’Souza and
as Annual Entertainment during Diwali
Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca and regular
Holidays, Patrons titular feast either on 29th
communications now with Rev. Fr Philip Neri
June or for the convenience of participants
Aranha, the incumbent Vicar since 2016.
on the following Sunday, full day function
with a Thanks giving Holy Mass, Annual Interestingly most of them and various
General body meeting, variety entertainment Assistant Priests served in Barkur are in
and games, special Lunch with Barkurian constant contacts with him even today…!
64
 FROM THE NIB OF HIS CONTEMPORARIES….!

FORMER PRESIDENT OF SPA SPEAKS

It was in the year 1985 or so I came in contact
with then youngsters, from Barkur, in Archie,
FELIX BARNES
Lawrence, Timothy and a few more, who are
Former President SPA
trying to get into, organize Konkani drama,
etc with few other like minded young
Barkurians, by then come down from Barkur, Though the team successfully presented
in search of career and employment… Konkani Drama in November 1986 and a
Wilfy Nite in 1987, it was found difficult to
Since I knew Archie and Timothy earlier, and
proceed to go further, may be for want of
their appraisal of the purpose, being a
funds and support… Probably this went on
passionate lover of Konkani drama and
for nearly 3 to 4 years, till 1988. Since they,
songs, I used to mix with these youngsters
being in and around Barkur Church, and of
team and after some time came to know that
the somewhat the same age group, could
they had already formed a group known as ‘St
re-collect and make a list of Barkurians
Peters Catholic Youth Association, Barkur –
settled in and around Bombay, and the rest
Bombay’ – SPCYA in 1985 and had around
was/is a history.
30/35 youngsters enrolled in this Association.
During a combined meeting or you can say,
Get together, I met this handsome middle
aged man, Richard Carvalho, and we
remembered that we met in the 40’s at
Maryknoll School where I was enrolled after
coming from Bombay. I even recognized Mr.
Anthony Gonsalves, and a few others at one
such meeting.
Since I have studied till 4th standard in that
school and for further studies, was enrolled
65
in Viveka High School, Kota, I was purely a
Sunday Barkurian, all the way from distant
Sankady, hence was not knowing others.
That was the beginning of our new and
enlarged ‘St Peter’s Association, Barkur –
Mumbai’ in 1988 and we come to know each
other, with Richa, as he was called, a simple,
soft spoken, man of few words, but full of
action. I can say, his contribution, after was easy; we have to make it easy – at times
formation of SPA, was immense as we used by ignoring a few things and sometimes by
to have our meetings in his Garage Office, at accepting something…
Marol, and earlier we used to meet at Simpa’s I can write a lot about all our members, even
(our founder member) house, in Andheri. It though I am not a 100% Barkurian, (not born
was during the year 1995, after the untimely in Barkur) the way all these members, past
death of our President, on 15th August 1994, Presidents, other office bearers made this
Mr Simplen Sequeira, the Association elected association to be well known as one of the
/selected me to lead the association, best and vibrant amongst all contemporaries
thereafter our meeting place shifted to Vakola, in Bombay and surroundings.
On the occasion of Richard’s 80th Birthday,
along with my family I wish Richard
Carvalho, ‘A Very Happy and Healthy
Birthday’, to a man whose life is structured
on great values, principles and beliefs. Be
the best you can be, right where you are.
Life is not about getting to a destination, it’s
about how we live along the way….May you
continue to lend your helping hand to
for nearly 8 years. Thanks to Mr Henry/Ida our Association for years to come.
Roche, but all these years apart from these
youngsters, Richard and Henry made our
association, worth what it is today. With all good wishes,
FELIX BARNES
It was sad he lost his better half, Celine, in Former President SPA & Family,
same year when we lost another of our Sankadi / Mulund
Presidents Henry Roche. After me, Henry
took charge of our Association. Life never
66
 Boniface Sequeira
AS I KNOW RICHARD CARVALHO
Former President
I had joined SPA after my brother Simplen’s SPA
(the first president of SPA) death in 1994.
Of course, before joining the SPA, I knew
Mr Richard Carvalho because of Simplen, as Pirjenth. I had the unique opportunity to
he always used to talk about him. carry the Vaari body along with him.
Even my younger brother Vincy, who was ‘St Peter’s Association Barkur – Mumbai’,
also working in Bachoo garage, used to always remains indebted to their former
praise him, because he was known as a good leaders and stalwarts like Richard Carvalho.
Manager in Bachoo garage. During those On his 80th Birthday, we wish him all the very
years, boys from Barkur and surrounding best, especially, pray to Almighty Lord to
places were working in this garage, even
bless him with good health and peace of
though some people had the Engineering
mind. He was a man who gave his hands to
degree or Mechanical diploma, preferred to
serve and his heart to love. As the journey
work here for experience and on job training.
of life, where there are hidden blessings in
Bachoo garage owner Late William Carvalho every struggle, start with a full bag of luck
and his business partner Mr John Rebello
and an empty bag of experience...Our goal
were known as good and disciplined people.
is to fill the bag of experience before the
So, Richard learned the best things from
bag of luck gets empty..
them and rightly they helped him to manage
his own garage at Sewree and after some May his life story be an inspiration and a
time at Marol. He prospered after opening lamp post to youth to pick a lesson or
the Marol garage. I heard every year he two…appreciate hard times and sincere
celebrate the Worker’s Day along with free efforts, yes one day they will be just another
lunch with his staff. chapter in your personal success story as it
When he became President of SPA, many is now Richard’s….!
good things happened in his tenure. SPA
registration, new office at Chakala, Andheri
East, were recommended and purchased With all good wishes,
during his tenure. Historic, once in a life
time, the Annual Parish feast in December Boniface Sequeira
at Barkur was celebrated by SPA, as Former President SPA Barkur – Mumbai.

67
MR RICHARD CARVALHO, A STALWART, YET Ida Roche
SIMPLE SOFT SPOKEN, MAN OF FEW Wife of Former
WORDS President of SPA

The world is blessed with varieties which

degrees / qualification. A person’s honesty,
makes it beautiful. A garden with different
sincerity and integrity are the highest
flowers, with attractive colours and
qualification, which is Mr Richard Carvalho.
fragrance is a gift of nature, nurtured by
He has proved all sayings and proverbs and
men.
formulas perfect in his life. No substitute for
There is such a wonderful human being who hard work, a supportive family as the
also exists in the earthly garden. Among strongest support, steadfast faith in God and
living beings around us are, our distinctive self-confidence, dignity of labour, open mind
personalities, spreading fragrance of what to accept the modifications, according to
they are, living and leading a simple, time and Inner strength to be strong in all
exemplary life. Such a one is a great human, situations.
Mr Richard Carvalho, who is one among
These great qualities, I have observed in
them.
Mr Richard Carvalho, a stalwart, yet simple,
St Peter’s Association (Barkur) Mumbai (SPA) soft-spoken, a man of few words, with a
united most of the Barkurians and got them generous heart. May this biography be an
on one platform. Mr Richard Carvalho is that inspiration to many at present and coming
one flower with radiance and fragrance, who times.
established himself in Mumbai on his sheer
We take this glorious moment to wish
determination and hard work. He was the
Mr Richard Carvalho a happy 80th Birthday,
President of SPA for 6 years.
a milestone of a contented life and pray to
This book contains all that he has achieved Almighty Lord to bless him with good health
in a nutshell, which, most of us Barkurians and peace of mind….!
are not aware of. Mr Archibald Furtado has
done a marvelous task to collect most part Ida Roche
of the related information. Success does not (Wife of Former President of SPA –
depend upon the so called educational Late Henry Leslie Roche, Bombay)

68
RICHARD UNCLE - A SIMPLE MAN WITH A Vincent D’Almeida
GENEROUS HEART Former General
My Association with Richard Carvalho was Secretary SPA
during the formation of St Peter’s Catholic
Youth Association in the year 1985, a person success, and many of our SPA friends can
who is down to earth, a man of few words, vouch for this. That was the day I am closely
God fearing a loving husband, father, a friend connected with Uncle Richard when he was
and a dedicated hard working Richard Uncle. elected as a Founder Vice president of this
We never called Richard Carvalho by name, esteemed organization, I was the joint
though there is no biological relationship secretary for the initial 6 months later on
with our SPA Seniors, we were so when General Secretary Archibald Furtado
comfortable calling all of them as Uncle. had to migrate to Middle East for better
Ever since I came in to contact with this future, I had no other option to shoulder the
gentleman, I realized this person is a big responsibility of the General Secretary of our
asset to our beloved Association, by this time Association, till the yearJune 1998. That was
many of you already very well know about the time I was very closely associated with
his personality, his achievements and what Uncle Richard.
caliber person is our Uncle Richard. His love For the managing committee and the
towards Barkur Parish, its institutions and members, SPA was a new born child, we
the people, he was always reachable to worked as a one single family with three
people who were in need, always doing the generations,and rest is history. I vividly
work behind the scene. He was always very remember the initial days of our Association
generous in giving, whether that was in to materialize its objectives, we all worked
Mumbai or at our native place Barkur. very hard, initially we were having our
Year 1988 April 17 was a historicday for managing committee meetings at a very
St Peter’s Association (Barkur) Bombay, a convenient location which was at Marol
grand opening was held at Mahim, St. Victoria Richard Uncles Garage in the well-furnished
Church Hall with the High Mass followed by air-conditioned office, where Uncle Richard
the stage program with a grand reception was not only offering his place also with tea
for around 300 people of our Barkurians and and snacks for the members. Though he was
well-wishersand I can give the full credit to a silent listener and observer,but during the
Uncle Richard for making the arrangements deliberations he was giving very valuable
of this Church and its hall which was a grand suggestions, during initial years of SPA as
69
vice president Uncle Richard was very helpful it is one of the greatest Mangalorean
to materialize some of our great projects, Association which is still very active and
forming a Youth Hostel at Naigaon was a popular in Mumbai. Uncle Richard is still
greatest achievement. active with this association even at his young
age of almost 80 years.
As years went by SPA was growing very
strong and steady, we were organizing I would like to mention some of the occasions
Konkani concerts, plays and other socio during my India visits, which is still very fresh
cultural activities to promote our mother in my memory lane,especially when Uncle
tongue Konkani as well as to benefit our Richard was the President of the SPA,
association economically for which Uncle celebrated the St. Peter’s annual Parish Feast
Richards contribution was tremendous. I can at Barkur. I was fortunate enough to witness
go on and on about him, all I can say is he is this in person, it was such a happy occasion,
a very simple, loving and caring person who Uncle Richard has taken personal attention
is a self-made person with a strong goal in to entertain myself, Archibald Furtado and
life, he is a visionary, above all he had a very some of our ex SPA members. Other
kind heart and love towards people. occasions like Lonavla Picnic, Patron Saint’s
Feast Celebration in Mumbai also was a
As time went by, we the youngsters were
great experience to attend and enjoy the
growing in every aspects, I was all ready to
hospitality of Uncle Richard and other SPA
settling down in life, when I was getting
leaders.
married in Mumbai many of our SPA friends
helped me in many ways, I am still grateful In conclusion, all I can say is Uncle Richard
to uncle Richard, he offered me one of his is a very good living example for lots and
car for few days, which was very helpful for lots of people, his hard work and dedication
me to commute, those days I was living in is un measureable, even now he is still a
Naigaon. Those were the initial ten years of simple Uncle Richard, not forgetting Auntie
my life with SPA is very memorable and I can Celine’s role as his beloved partner in his
cherish every moment I spent with people life, it is unfortunate that she is no more with
like Uncle Richard, Late Simplen Sequeira, us today as well as his second son Kevin,
Felix Barnes, Late Henry Roche, Edwin may their souls rest in peace. Kiran and
Sequeira, Augustin D ’Silva, Alwyn D’Souza, Serena, I would say you are lucky to have a
Peter Furtado, Late Lawrence Sequeira, Father like Uncle Richard, he is a very good
Archibald Furatdo, John Gonsalves, Eric role model for many people and I am sure
Carvalho the list is very long. for both of you,may God bless you both and
your families. At this moment, I wish Uncle
The year 1998 June it was a time of parting,
Richard a very Happy 80th Birthday, may God
with heavy heart I had to leave India with
bless you with good health, happiness and
my family to migrate to USA, it was very
difficult for me to leave behind these peace.
beautiful people where we lived like one With Love
family, now it is 22 plus long years, our Vincent D’Almeida & Family
beloved association is grown very strong and California, USA

70
A contented and peaceful man at 80’s

Richard C H Carvalho
Son of Barkurian soil, a proud descendent exhaustive, on the job experience exposed
from the Carvalho clan, whose roots were in and introduced him to the larger business
Goa and made their home around Kundapur, to establish state of the art modern Garage
first, in the second half of 17th Century AD, in Marol, in 1975.
and later one branch, headed by Richard’s
Grand Father, Baptist sprouted to settle down Life is not qualified by speaking fluent
in Barkur, Kachhur in the beginning of 19th English, wearing branded clothes, or a rich
Century, and later progressed and developed lifestyle, but surely its measured by the
to be a small but successful business number of faces who smile when they hear
community in Bombay, over the years. Richards’s name today, because many were
Richard deservedly find a noticeable, taught to catch fish than learned to eat fish,
respectful place in this canvas of recognition in this river called Richard’s Garage.
with his own contribution, purely coming Balancing home affairs by wife Celine, since
from his hard work, passion and business 1970 and business worth few Crores by
ethics practiced over the years. himself, without a Management degree need
a standing ovation to this simple and down
No success story is without pain. In this
to earth, self-made man. Unexpected phase
journey of 80 long years, he has seen many
in their life, a deteriorating health of his
ups and downs, tragedies and triumphs as
second son Kevin, a bright and intelligent
well. He lost his Papa, Boniface, when he
student till XII, was a worry haunted him and
needed him most, at 24, after just primary
family very badly and, in the end, they lost a
education till, VIII, Richard was here in gem at a young age of 18, on 1st January,
Bombay at 16, continued his formal 1997. Time does not heal everything but
education, but unable to fetch a SSLC acceptance of reality will heal everything.
certificate….. Then his determination to Alas, a father only knows the pain of losing
plunge into blue collar work, in learning the a youthful son….!!
so called dirty and manual Mechanical works
in a Garage for 7 long years, made him a Richard boldly took decisions, which he
man with strong will power and remain thought right. Expansion of business in
physically fit, handsome and healthy…. transport, by owning a fairly large fleet of
trucks, having a division for body building,
Ready to take risk and self-confidence opening Spare parts Stores etc were few
coupled with trust in Almighty Lords plans examples of diversifying and in away, a
for him, rightly paved way to venture his own means of livelihood for many hands to earn
Richard Garage in Sewree, in 1968 at the age their food, shelter and clothing, in the past
of just 28, and almost, 8 years of tireless five long decades….
work, as manager to down the line as
cleaning and washing, never felt any work While things were normalised, with son
below his dignity or status….. Vast and Kiran, like father like son, started to shoulder
71
the responsibilities of the expanding at all… a man believes in every problem in
business and taking decisions for day today life have a gift inside and allows not to get
running of the business, something truly un- upset when face them, as it’s his own
usual was in the waiting. Celine his wife, experience that they had beautiful ending
always stood like a rock, has to say good than what actually expected…. Memories are
bye to this world, with just 2- or 3-days always special, sometimes we laugh by
sudden illness, on that fateful Wednesday, remembering the days we cried.. and
26 th August, 2015. She was just 65. sometime we cry by remembering the days
Relationship is a silent gift of nature…older we laughed… someone rightly said, probably
it become stronger, more care leads to more that is life. Let us enjoy every moment of it….
respect, less words, more understanding,
less meetings, more feelings, that is in short Richard always treated ‘Work is worship’,
– what Celine was meant for Richard…...! To is also a man of prayers and devotion. His
make a difference in some one’s life, one day start with it and ends with Holy Rosary
need not be brilliant, rich, beautiful or and thanking Lord. He never misses his
perfect, one just has to love and care, Novena prayers of Mother of Perpetual
unconditionally….!! Succour in St Michael’s Church Mahim and
a regular devotee in Don Bosco, Our lady of
It is rightly said, a lamp doesn’t speak. It Health. Holy Bible and daily Holy Mass are
introduces itself through its light… Achievers his companions. There are many real-life
never expose themselves. But their experiences of Richard which rightly
achievement exposes them… We Barkurians demonstrate the ‘power of prayers’…. During
must be fortunate to have Richard on board, every vacation his family used to pay a visit
when we thought of forming St Peters to Karkala St. Lawrence Basilica, St Anthony
Association, from the very inception days. Shrine, Kerekatte, St Jude’s Church,
His service, contribution, leadership always Pakshikere, Rev. Fr Alfred Roche Tomb in
stand at premium and he was part and parcel Brahmmavar etc…. Richard generously give
of its existence, growth and goodwill, SPA all credit for his success to his devout
enjoys today. parents, caring family and friends, admits
humbly, ‘it is He who works through me, I
No one is perfect, as human short comings
am just an instrument of His plans…...!’
tend to be there. Richard may not be an
exception. However, there are n number good Today, he resides with daughter Serena, who
things for us to pick from his life. Today, his is taking care of his octogenarian father so
very simple food habits, routine exercises, well, in the same house in Mahim since
a positive approach, life of prayers and 1973. Richard’s son Kiran and daughter in
adjusting with the situations, rightly the law Charlotte, resides nearby a stone’s throw
secret of contentment. distance, just opposite to Mahim Railway
Even today, Richard had a habit of calling station, will be available at call and short
people, friends, priests, nun sisters, whom notice. Grandson Ethan is an all-time
he knows for years together, regularly. His favourite to Grandpa and normally a regular
memory is phenomenal and interestingly, he guest on weekends and holidays, to chat with
doesn’t talk about his weakness or sickness Aab.
72
Few Unforgettable Events and Incidents in The Life
of Richard Carvalho
As a school boy, Richard was a cool leader sleeping youngsters…. and with great
in the surroundings, Rayara Thota, Kachhur. difficulty caught the thief and beat one of
Once a fortune telling gypsy, popularly them like anything, other two accomplices
known in our place as Kuru Kuru Mama, ran away…. stripped him off all his clothes,
wandering and collecting alms / money, even not leaving even loin cloth. and shaved his
handful of rice from house to house. When head and then allowed to go…. In the
he came to Severine Auntie’s house, he saw following morning, on enquiry, found out,
this dark complexed tiny boy playing in the these boys working in the dock as helpers
courtyard – he predicted to her “this boy will and night performing robberies…
make a big name and bring fame to your Richard was working in the Bachhu’s Garage
family…….”. Today, looking back and having 1960 – 67 and days tiresome manual work,
an overview of Richard’s life, it looks like rightly needed rest in the night. There were
that, the man rightly foretold…….? few Taxi Drivers from native Barkur,
This happened in Bombay. Richard’s father Brahmmavar, Sastan etc who were residing
was serving in ‘Sassoon Dock’ and he had in the nearby Clubs – Dongri, Clare Road,
his Paan Beedi shop and Beedi making small Nagpada, Metro Cinema, Mazagaon,
scale industry and the same space was Byculla, Dimtimkar Road etc and during night
utilised for sleeping in the night time. There used to park their taxi’s around Bombay
were frequent thefts of slippers / chappals Central and nearby places in Gulal Wadi.
and even shoes during night time…. One day During night time Police used to come, in
a new comer in the room lost his new pair of the pretext of raid and checking and
foot wear. Poor boy was weeping since he harassed these drivers and extracting
had neither money to buy a new one nor had money, otherwise threatening to arrest
a spare pair. them….
This hurt Richard a lot. He decided to keep It was happening for many days. One day,
himself awake for next couple of days and Richard and few youngsters decided to
kept an eye on the chappal stand…after a watch what is really happening….? As usual,
week same gang of two or three, slowly Police Jeep came and started calling these
reappeared and picked some few drivers with their filthy language….
items…Immediately Richard alerted the Richard noticed, within themselves they

73
were conversing in Tulu…and realised these home, but it proved to be beyond her
are either duplicate or thieves….Swiftly control… Richard immediately took the same
caught hold of them and beaten them with taxi and rushed to Matpadi, praying to our
their own sticks and chased them away….In lady of Perpetual Succour. See the divine
the encounter, one fellows wrist watch fallen providence, here Richard parked the Taxi,
down, and even today Richard has preserved near their house, there inside a baby boy
it as a monumental relic, of his heroic was born…...! A difficult and scarry situation,
action…..! but in the end a normal delivery at home.
This is the time, many things and There is no limit for Richard and family’s
responsibilities to be handled at a time, May jubilations and celebration. One has to note
1974. Last wedding in the family – Franky a great coincidence over here – Exactly ten
with Theresa Almeida hailing from Balkudru, years back on this day, 19 th May, 1964,
Mabukal on 17th May, 1974………Richard sent Richard’s Papa breathed his last and today,
his wife Celine native home for her first a decade after, his grandson Kiran born on
delivery, about 3 months back and was just that same day, 18th May, 1974….!! Richard
waiting or counting days anxiously, dates believed God stood by him, when he was
were almost close to confinement….at the down, He encouraged him when he thought
same she too didn’t want to miss devar’s of quitting or about to raise hands, He guided
(youngest brother-in-law) wedding, which him when situations and things seem
she attended all the way travelling from confusing, hence held on to Him….
Matpady by a boat, which was really tiring It was in the year 1987 – 88, we the
experience to a pregnant woman…In Bombay youngsters trying our best to rope-in elders
Richard was all alone with multiple works in to join St. Peter’s Association and we had
hand but love for youngest brother, in a way good number of preliminary meetings with
not allowing to miss the once in life time erstwhile St Peters Barkurians Association,
occasion. In the end took a to and from Air with last serving President Prof. George V
ticket just for 4 days and whole family was D’Lima, Advocate of Bombay High Court,
there for the function…. Wedding was over, Augustine D’Silva, Jerry Sequeira etc. Chain
following day, Samman Jevann, and next day of marathon meetings, didn’t proceed to the
Richard has to travel back to Bombay and next level, Richard Carvalho, a man normally
Taxi was booked to Mangalore aerodrome. not known to lose his cool, probably got
Two younger sisters of Celine made their frustrated with only talks and talks….got up,
surprise appearance early in the morning to and told, “right at this moment,it’s not the
convey the news of Celine’s delicate health time for listening to stories of 40’s and
condition with labour pain…Midwife was at 60’s,not interesting…..now tell us whether
74
that dormant Association…left with any These were the golden rules followed in
funds…. And if have please arrange to Richard Garage for decades together. There
transfer them to the new set up, that is more was a culture in his workshop, almost all
important for the merger of your age-old were given a nickname, second Baptism on
organisation of 1940 with youth Association his first day like – Lambu, Taklu, Jadya, Kanya,
of 1985, to form the proposed new St. Peter’s Khatmal, Motu, Kalia etc, and the guy known
Association Barkur – Mumbai 1988….”A pin by it, than his proper name, for rest of his
drop silence, and everything directed life, at least in this Garage. Richard had a
towards the real issues than, discussions perfect teacher in-built in him, he
leading nowhere. Here one can note, Richard encouraged boys to attempt new works, ‘you
is not a person to waste his time as well as will not grow when things are easy instead
others, without transacting any serious you learn while facing challenges….’ Richard
decisions. What followed was history today used to explain the function of each
and readers can refer other pages for more component and once or twice in a day, an
details…. assembly of new apprentice to watch seniors
work, even they were asked to watch him
Sewree Garage had about 10 experienced building the Engine, Gear box etc…..It so
Mechanics and about 20 odd Helpers / happened, someone newly joined cracked
Apprentices, coming from various States. For some filthy joke while Richard seriously
anyone who approach at him, with an explaining the gauge testing…..Richard lost
intention to learn and earn, Richard was his cool and with the long and heavy spanner
always ready to help them. There were in hand, beat on the head of the trainee,
couple of instructions / advices in the very blood flown out….Quickly Richard realised
beginning or before appointment. First, his mistake, at times, results of anger are
“listen to your immediate supervisor and do more painful than the reasons for it…. took
what he instructs…. ask him questions to him in his car to a nearby Hospital for
know the parts and their functions, if anything treatment…. Later on, this boy became one
goes wrong, be honest to bring the same to of the best Mechanic and now owns his own
the notice of your senior…. anything breaks, Garage in Shahapur…...!! Of course, there
gets damaged, inform us…. cost of the spare were few more such incidents of first beating
part is not your concern…. there is always then treating…. One thing was clear, no
pardon for truthfulness and honesty…. never anger inside him, that is why no enemy
ever agree to fix duplicate part, even in case outside…. End of the day, Richard loved his
the truck driver or owner of the vehicle boys and defended them in front of anyone
instruct you to do so….in such cases bring it and everyone... outside the Workshop.
to my notice then and there….” Comparatively, his people were paid less
75
remuneration but when they came out with but called growing up….” Impossible will be
a tag of experience in Richard Garage, possible and after all we are dealing with
offered a better package, elsewhere…...! human beings, all have a heart, stand a step
Richard and family had a routine visit to down….!
native place Barkur in May every year, A scheme was worked out to pay the market
immediately once children get Summer price cost to the owners of land, rightly the
holidays. He had his personal Car since 1973. non-beneficiaries and this amount has to be
Till 1990 or so it used to be parked near Late collected from beneficiaries, who were not
John P. Sequeira’s compound. Even at times sacrificing the land. Today almost every
his trucks halted here for a day or two on household in Kachhur – Rayara Thota has
their way to Cochin / Trivandrum etc. road connectivity to their compound.
All residents at and around Rayara Thota, RD or Recurring Monthly Deposit Savings
wanted to have Road connectivity. Who will
schemes in Banks for Staff and workers, was
bell the cat…? Youngsters tried their best to
Richard’s pet subject. His policy was – if you
convince the owners of land at the starting
earn Rs.100/- save at least Rs.15/- or a
point, but ice yet to break…..some, Dias,
minimum Rs. 10/- per month. From the very
Fernandes, Pais, D’Souza’s and his own
first month of earning, saving habits were
nephews Eric and Praveen approached
instilled in the minds of people working with
Richard to intervene to resolve and find a
him. The amounts so collected were kept in
way…..Fine it’s a project useful for him too
a Fixed Deposit every year, was very useful
and many other families, managed to make
in emergencies, buying useful but costly and
a sketch for a narrow road to start with.
durable home appliances. There were
Earlier Philip Dias tried and tired of….and
sold his property and settled in Kundapur and examples in his Garage, like a Watchman who
now with fresh attempt, few were offered purchased a room in a chawl, his personal
some compensation and most of them ready driver Hassan Ali purchased a Tempo, even
to sacrifice their portion of land and road a foreman booked a Taxi, a receptionist also
was laid till the bank of the River…. In other convinced her husband to cultivate
words, Richard was a person always part of compulsory saving and able to have a flat
a solution not the problem. Once we asked today. Richard himself used to save money
him to know more about the turning point – under this programme and these small but
Richard’s one sentence answer – when accumulated become a big sum – it’s
“sometimes I have to eat my own words, with such saved amount the Concreting of
chew my ego, swallow my pride, and accept the entire floor of the Marol Garage was
that I am / we are wrong, it’s not giving up completed Richard recollects.
76
Richard Garage a success story

Not merely to survive, but to thrive with passion,

compassion and style……
“A Journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step”. Lao Tzu

About the Workshop:

The workshop was established by Mr. Richard
Carvalho in January, 1968. It was started in
a humble way as a proprietary workshop
catering to heavy vehicles; passenger cars
were later added to the portfolio. Today the
service experience ranges from Commercial
vehicles to Passenger cars. They are supported by a team of qualified
An enthusiastic team of service professionals engineers who are trained by the principals,
is guided by Mr Richard’s vision to be the Tata Motors Ltd., backed up by a state of the
“Best in the manner in which they operate, art workshop with the latest equipment as
best in the services they provide and Best in well as specialised and diagnostic tools and
ethics and value system that are followed”. a reputation for strong customer loyalty that
was established over the years.
The foundation of the company’s growth over
the last 44 years is a result of a deep In July 2009, a service brand was registered
understanding of market requirements, under the trademark “Autodrome”
customer needs and the ability to translate Automobiles and beyond. The vision was to
them into customer-desired offerings do provide an ‘one stop shop’ for sales and
through solution based personalised service. services of technology driven products and
to develop on their valuable experience
while extending these learning’s to provide
services in various sectors associated with
automobiles.
Important milestones:
With a view to diversify, bring structure and
professionalism to their service brand the
Company associated with Tata Motors as
an Authorised Service Centre on 01 Dec 98.
77
To expand the service foot print, M/s Richard Sales of Pre-Owned Cars.
Garage concluded a strategic alliance with
Finance for New and Pre-owned Cars.
Concorde Motors India Limited, a 100%
subsidiary of Tata Motors and a selling arm Exports of Car Spares
of Tata Motors, as business partner on 01 Important achievements and Activities
Jul 2012. In line with this alliance, the
apart from our Service Events:
workshop s now known as “Richard Garage
in Association with Concorde Motors” Award of Trophy by Tata Motors for the
‘Vehicle Inflow Performance’, YOY (Year on
Knowledge shared with Concorde Motors
and integration of their systems and Year) Growth 2010-2011 for the best team
processes have added immense value to the work.
customer’s service experience of the Participated in the SAARC Car Rally in 2007
Company. conducted by the Government of India and
Currently Concorde ranks number One in by the CII (Confederation of Indian
‘Customer Satisfaction Index’ across India Industries) on behalf of Tata Motors. The
spread over fifteen setups. rally drove across six countries namely
It is endeavoured to achieve the same at Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Sri
Richard Garage. Lanka and Maldives and across ten states
of India namely West Bengal, Assam, Uttar
Range of Products:
Pradesh, Chandigarh, Punjab, Uttarakhand,
Service Provider for all Tata Passenger Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat,
vehicles. Mumbai covering over 9,300kms.
New Vehicle Sales for Tata Products like the Organised the ‘More Miles per Car Rally’
Nano, Indica, Indigo, Vista, Manza, Sumo,
on behalf of Tata Motors for Tata customers
Safari, Aria.
winning a “Certificate of Commendation by
Distributors for Autograde Speed Governors Mr. Rajiv Dubey (V ice President, Tata
in Maharashtra, catering to the requirement Motors) as the rally was a immense success.
by a network of dealers appointed at various
Regional Transport Office Location. Associated with Autocar as part of the Core
team organizing the AUTOCAR Speed Run
Dealers for Autokontrol UK for their
2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, MUMBAI at
Automatic Lubrication systems.
the Bandra-Worli Sea-link & Kharghar Navi-
Dealers for Lucas Electricals.
mumbai and Bangalore-Jakkur Airfield.
Dealers for Tata Green Batteries.
Dealers for Bridgestone Tyres.
Our website details
Insurance service providers for Tata Motor https://richardgarage.com/home
Insurance, State Bank of India, Gen Ins Co Devkiran Carvalho.
and HDFCGIC Ltd.
78
A Short Note on Richard’s Private Use of Vehicles
We have seen many people, who take care Mahim – Sewree – Andheri….and he
of their personal cars just like their own purchased a brand new Premier Padmini
children. Attachments to these vehicles so from Premier Motors, Kurla, paying an
deep in their heart, though they can afford outright Rs. 36,000/. He gifted his
one expensive, modern or latest model, passionate Land Master to the Agent
happy to be contented and comfortable with who helped him out of the way to have
the one they have, for a long period. the new plot for Garage in Marol –
Military Road, in the year 1974-75. He
We can also see this sort of emotional love
retained it for 13 long years, till 1988.
for such cars, in the case of Richard,
He travelled to Barkur practically in
especially during his romantic heydays….
every summer holidays with family in
1973 – 1993.
May.
™ In 1973, newly married Richard
™ Once the children were grown up,
purchased a second-hand Land Master
Richard opted to go for a new Mahindra
– (the previous name for Ambassador
Jeep – 540. It used to have 3 Doors.
saloon car manufactured by Hindustan
Motors). He paid just Rs.3500/- but the Richard altered the shape with an
refurbishment cost was Rs. 5000/- In extension by 1 foot by cutting the
other words, a grand looking reliable Car chasisis in the centre, adding one feet
was made ready for his personal use, extention and fixing 5 doors, which was
costing a total of Rs. 8500/-. He took the a star attraction during those days.
chance to travel to native town Barkur, Whole family had a South India tour with
in May, 1974 with wife without a spare a Driver and 2 pet dogs. Bangalore,
driver, all the way from Bombay via Hubli Mysore, Ooty, Madras Vellankanni etc.
his sister’s place…. His mother, Auntie Richard also opened his new SERENA
Severine so elated to see his son driving Transport Services in Bangalore and
and owning a car – There was no Petrol
Station except in Udupi in 1974, Richard
has to keep reserve petrol in cans. He
took his mother to various relatives,
friends with him….

™ In the year, 1975, on 27th April, Marol

Garage started operations and Richard
rightly needed a reliable Car for his
personal use, for his frequent trips to

79
 appointed a Transport Manager
to run the day to day
operations. After visiting these
places tourists’ interest and
holy shrines, the family reached
to Barkur for a break. It’s
interesting to note here that,
Mahindra Motors, came out
with almost similar features,
Richard fitted in his Jeep, in the
following year.

™ Richard also had a new TATA

Sumo, which was utilised for long ™ Afterwards, Richard went back
to his familiar brand Fiat Linea
and kept with him for three
years.
™ In 2016, Richard purchased
Safar Decor, which he still uses.
Today, Richard Carvalho can afford
to keep, an expensive, status
symbol private vehicle, but he is
more than contented with a decent,
durable and dependable model. At
his 80’s he enjoys driving, his
business trips, especially during annual
eyesight deteriorating but his control over
vacation for children in May every year. steering and brakes, astonishes even an
experienced driver.
™ In between, one second hand TATA Safari
was also there, but sold out keeping
a small margin immediately.

™ Then there was one Honda Civic

brand-newcar for a year or so and
sold it after a visit to Barkur in May.

™ Meanwhile Richard liked the TATA

Safari which he used earlier and
purchased a new one and utilised it
for 3 long years.
80
A glance at,
Richard Carvalho’s Investments in land – A vision….
Few of us still remember, about 15 years ago, With an intention of having a Garage in
Richard tossed an idea of new Barkur, near native place Richard purchased a plot on
Saiberakatte. The plan was like this, buy a 27-10-1983, in Anne Gudde, on NH 17, near
huge piece of land like, 100 to 150 acres at Kundapur. It was about 2 acres of land, single
one place at cheap rate. There must be piece level land costing 4,50,000/- Lateron
ground water, with a madaga, or rivulet and he built a compound wall, a well, shed, gate
proximity to a road nearby. It must be fertile etc. Somehow his dream to have a Garage
for plantation work, not necessarily paddy didn't materialise. Hence he decided to sell
fields etc. A group of 50 Barkurians to be and fetched a decent price.
allowed to purchase 1 or two acres of land
From the sale proceeds, Richard purchased 4
in their individual name and in case if he or
acres of land near Kavadi, in the year 2007
she wants dispose it of then it should be
and another piece of 2 acres close to this plot.
done so through society only. There must be
space reserved for a Chapel, a School / High It's not our intention to elaborate on the above
School even a provision for a PG Centre, in subject further, as Richard know his business
future. It must be a township, with individual well and invested a part of his savings in real
house, compound, road connectivity, estate and spent a substantial part of it in
independent well, if required. philanthropic works of individual help and
community, without craving for any name or
Two or three locations were seen and the
publicity. All or anyone welcome to copy his
core group of like-minded people, most of
style of service, but many may fail to have
them were either in Mumbai or in Gulf.
the same passion, which he and his family
Unfortunately, a small self-interested local
holds firmly. Challenges are part of life to make
friend thwarted this project in the very initial
it interesting and overcoming or resolving
stage…. If it was materialised by then, today,
them or this process makes life meaningful.
people would have richer by 30 - 40 times.
Moreover, a about 100 families would have Richard C H Carvalho, a fighter, had many
lived happily in a serene, environment comebacks in his life, both personal and in
friendly, location. business as he proved every 'comeback' was
stronger than the 'setback'…! In the life of
The above in short of a vision of a person,
Richard, we have many things to learn, as he
who not only wanted a future for himself but
reminded while recording this Biography,
for society at large. There is no sense in
'don't be emotional, that it hurts you..! And
discussing on what didn't took off.
don't be so practical, that it hurts others….
Richard's firm belief was, investment in land Change your thoughts with time, and needs
never be a loss. He had his own examples, and situations; you can change your world as
over the years. well as others, around you….'
81
Richard C.H. Carvalho – A Biography
Acknowledgements & Credit
Richard C H Carvalho – A biography, is a With high respects, we thank His Excellency,
small work, to record the life and living of Rt. Rev. Dr Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary
one of its illustrious President, by St Peter’s Diocese, who sent a beautiful message
Association Barkur – Mumbai. It’s a token congratulating Mr Richard Carvalho, on his
of gratitude and reverence to a colourful Birthday, who always remained a well-wisher
personality, on his landmark 80th Birthday, of Barkurians in general and SPA stalwarts
on 25th October, 2020. in particular.

First of all, we are grateful to Almighty Lord, We take this opportunity to thank, all
for this wonderful gift in the person of respected Priests, Very Rev. Fr Valerian
Richard, to be associated with us for the last Mendonca, Rector of Milagres Cathedral &
4 decades in Mumbai and in Barkur. Dean Kallianpur deanery, Rev. Fr Philip Neri
Aranha, Parish Priest of Barkur Church, Very
Secondly, we must thank Richard C Carvalho,
Rev. Fr Joswy Fernandes, Dean, Karkala
though reluctantly, for allowing us to write
varado, Very Rev. Fr R C M Aranha, former
about him and most importantly sharing his
V icar of Barkur Church and our own
experiences, struggle of hard work,
Barkurian Rev. Fr Cyprian Henry D’Souza,
achievements, happily to make this book a
Pilar Fathers, Parish Priest of Salethur
useful monumental work for youth and
Church, for their well worded greetings and
children, who aspire for success in career
messages on the occasion of Mr Carvalho’s
and business….
80th Birthday.
Thirdly, we must specially thank, Archibald
We are also grateful to Sr Irene Noronha for
Furtado, SPA’s Founder Secretary, who had a
her apt message on this occasion and
close acquaintance with Richard in 80’s,
eminent personalities Mr Devendar Dawkhar
during SPCYA and later formation years of
and Mr Ganapathy Pai from M/s TATA
SPA, who volunteered to record Richard
Motors, as well as Sanjaykumar Jobalia, of
Carvalho’s life history in a book form.
M/s Shree Enterprises, all of them are both
We must express our sincere gratitude’s to, friends and admirers, happily sent their
James Fernandes, Chicago, USA, a proud messages on Richard C H Carvalho’s 80th
Barkurian scholar and a philanthropist, who Birthday. It’s truly nostalgic moment to recall
took time and interest to write a befitting their memories on this happy and glorious
Foreword / Preface to this Biography. occasion.

82
With humility we acknowledge the kind o The Manager and Staff of M/s Assisi
words of encouragement and inspiration Printers, Jail Road, Bijai, Mangalore
from octogenarian Mr John Rebello, Partner who designed, printed this book
of M/s Bachoo’s Garage Agripada, who was meticulously, on time. Especially we
one of the early mentors of today’s celebrity acknowledge with thanks the services
Richard Carvalho.
of Ms Rita and Ms Shruthi for their
SPA specially wish to go on record to express creativity, talent and patience in
its gratitude’s to Richard Carvalho’s family shaping this biography.
members, especially, son Kiran, his daughter
in-law Charlotte, grandson Ethan and o Our special thanks to Fr Cyprian Henry
Richard Carvalho’s daughter Serena, for their D’Souza, Pilar Fathers, a native
co-operation in many ways, all the time, Barkurian priest and one immensely
while compiling this Biography. inspired by Richard Carvalho and Prof.
Alfred Furtado, HOD Dept. of English,
SPA remain indebted to our own present
SMS College, Brahmmavar, who helped
President Ivan M Rebello, past Presidents –
Felix Barnes, Boniface Sequeira, former us to correct, streamline and in proof
Secretary Vincent D’Almeida, Ida Roche, reading work and verifying the
(wife of former President Late Henry Roche) language and contents.
all SPA Office bearers and Members, for
o We will also grateful to members of
sharing their inputs, feelings and
remembering some great moments in the extended Carvalho family, both in
company of their colleague and friend native Barkur, Kundapur and Mumbai,
Richard C H Carvalho. many people who served in Richard
Garage over the years, friends who
St Peters Association Barkur – Mumbai, also happily shared historical photographs,
acknowledge the services, guidance, in
other data and information.
presenting this Biography:
o All our friends and well-wishers, who
o Kishore Gonsalves Barkur, who
designed the cover pages of this helped directly or indirectly and not
monumental work, so attractively and comfortable to see their names over
also giving us best publicity in here but we sincerely value them and
www.barkuronline Web pages. their timely helping hand.

o James Fernandes, Chicago, USA, for his On behalf of Editorial Team & St Peter’s
manifold services, encouragement and Association, Barkur – Mumbai.
patronage throughout the process from
its inception, execution and delivering Eric L Carvalho
General Secretary
a beautiful final product in your hands.
83
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