Santa on wheels spreads joy, love

MANGALORE: Vincent Menezes (45), a farmer from Kokkada village in Belthangady taluk is on a mission every Christmas. Dressed as Santa Claus, Vincent is distributing sweets to children and is spreading the message of peace, love and non-violence in the district on his two-wheeler.
Vincent started his unique ‘Santa on wheels mission’ 11 years ago and wants to make the 12th year ride a memorable one.He wants to spread the message of St Nicholas by meeting more people.
Aiming to cover 600km in three days, Vincent has already completed 350km journey since Wednesday, covering Dharmastala, Ujire, Belthangady, Madanthyaru, Moodabidri, Mangalore city, BC Road and Uppinangady. After covering Kadaba and Puttur, he will proceed towards Shiradi and end his mission on Friday.
“I distributed sweets to children, physically and mentally challenged people. I visited some orphanages and old-age homes to herald Christmas message. Their happiness fills my heart with joy. I also distributed pamphlets requesting people to save our environment and create awareness on AIDS and terrorism,” Vincent told TOI.
Vincent, who is a Parish member of St John Baptist Church, Kawkrady in Kokkada village is popularly known as Santa Claus among his friends and villagers.
“Jesus Christ is the symbol of peace. He advised charity and asked mankind to shun jealousy. I hope my ‘Santa mission’ will spread these messages,” he added.