A Legacy Worth Preserving – Our Kudd

The history of our Club (Kudd in Konkani) dates back to its establishment during colonial times, by a group of devoted parishioners from St. Anthony of Galgibaga Parish — along with members from the villages of Chiplem, Galgibag, Sadolxem, and Maxem.

The Kudd was founded with a noble purpose: to provide shelter, support and a sense of belonging to parishioners from St. Anthony Church, Galgibag, who travelled to Mumbai in search of employment, education, medical assistance, or other opportunities. It also served as a temporary home for many of our people who were in transit to foreign countries, especially seamen who spent days or weeks in Mumbai before boarding ships.

In those days, life in Mumbai was not easy for newcomers. The Kudd became more than just a building — it became a family. Operated as a dormitory-style residence with a common kitchen, members shared meals, responsibilities, joys, and struggles together. It was a place where parishioners looked after one another like brothers and sisters while being far away from their homes in Goa.

For generations, this Kudd has stood as a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and foresight. Our ancestors built it with hard work, dedication, and the dream that future generations would always have a place in Mumbai they could call their own.

The Present Challenge

Today, our Kudd faces one of the biggest challenges in its history — an ongoing battle with the landlord and the uncertainty surrounding the future of the property.

This is not merely a legal or financial issue. It is a fight to preserve our heritage, identity, and the legacy left behind by our forefathers. If we fail to stand together now, we risk losing something that generations before us worked tirelessly to create and protect.

The responsibility of safeguarding the Kudd no longer rests only with the older generation. It now belongs equally to the youth and every parishioner who values our community’s history and future.

During the AGM meeting held on 3- May - 2026 at 10:00 am at St. Anthony High School Hall, Galgibaga, Bardroy Barretto and Remiz Cardoz updated the members of the current situation of the Trust and the court case. - Reference "Minutes of Meeting" dated 3-May 2026.

• A notice was served by the Mumbai government office to the landlord that the building was not safe for living unless it was repaired.

• At this time, the landlord was also looking for redevelopment of the building with a builder.

• The landlord initially filed a case against the Trust saying that he did not know us and that we were living illegally on his premises.

• The trust filed a case using a lawyer from Mumbai and following legal proceedings and submission of supporting documents, The Court acknowledged the Trust’s tenancy rights in accordance with the consent terms and documents submitted. The court order and consent terms will be shared with the members.

• It is recorded and acknowledged that the carpet area of the subject premises is approximately 1,200 sq.ft. After detailed discussions and negotiations with the landlord, it was mutually agreed that, in the event of any redevelopment, the minimum guaranteed allocation of 1,000 sq.ft. carpet area with a parking will be allotted to our Trust. As on date our Trust is in occupation and possession of the larger portion of the 2nd Floor, comprising of three rooms, a kitchen, and the adjoining passage area.

• If any redevelopment takes place, our Trust will be a party to it, and will have a seat to discuss with the developer during negotiations.

• We are now paying a rent of Rs.1200/- every month as we are the absolute tenants of the premises as per the agreed consent terms.

• We have already done some minor repairs to the premises using funds from our saving account.

• It was unanimously agreed that any compensation received in connection with redevelopment shall belong solely to the Trust and shall be deposited into the Trust account for utilization as approved by the General Body.

• Remiz Cardoz, Bardroy Barretto and Irwin Cardozo were thanked in a special way for their untiring follow up on the court case and Roque Barretto & Crisolio Monteiro for handling the premises and overseeing repairs and rent payment.

Benefits of Club Membership

A. Affordable Accommodation in Mumbai

One of the greatest benefits of the Kudd is that any parishioner in need of accommodation in Mumbai can stay at the club by paying a minimal fee, far lower than the high costs of hotels or rented accommodation in the city.

This makes the Kudd especially valuable for:

• Students

• Job seekers

• Seamen and overseas workers

• Parishioners visiting Mumbai temporarily

• Families visiting for emergencies or official work

B. Our Home Away From Home

The Kudd is more than accommodation — it is a place where every parishioner can feel safe, welcomed, and connected to their own people.

For many from our community working abroad, Mumbai often becomes a transit point before travelling overseas or returning home. The club can continue to serve as a reliable and familiar place to stay during such transitions.

It can also greatly help parishioners and families travelling to Mumbai for:

• Medical treatments and hospital visits

• Visa and documentation procedures

• Educational admissions

• Employment opportunities

• Emergency situations

In difficult times, having a place where one is surrounded by familiar people from one’s own parish can provide comfort and reassurance that no hotel can offer.

C. Excellent Connectivity and Convenience

The strategic location of the Kudd in Mumbai offers excellent connectivity through:

• Local train networks

• Metro and tube connectivity

• Bus routes

• Access to airports and railway stations

This makes travel within Mumbai easier and more economical for parishioners staying at the club.

Together We Can Preserve Our Legacy

The Kudd is not just a memory of the past — it is an investment in our community’s future. Our ancestors built this institution with unity and sacrifice. It is now our duty to preserve, strengthen, and pass it on proudly to future generations.

Let us stand united, become active members, and ensure that this treasured home of our parish community continues to serve generations to come.