Veez Global Illustrated Konkani & English Weekly e-Magazine. Published from Chicago, USA.

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AWARD WINNINGPOET

ANDREWL.DCUNHA,BEJAI

AWARD WINNINGPOET ANDREWL.DCUNHA,BEJAI

Andrew L D’Cunha: Active in Konkaniliteratureforover 40 years, AndrewLD’Cunhaisrenownedasa creative and popular contemporary Konkanipoet. Morethan 600 of his poems, three poetry collections, 30 short stories, 50 articles, columns for children and poetry lovers, on

contemporary social issues have been published in various Konkani magazinesandwebsites.

He has also served as a judge for several Konkani literary competitions and editorial board memberofkonkaniperiodicals.

Hispoetrycollectionshavereceived

Karnataka Konkani Sahitya

Academy Book Award, All India

KonkaniWriters'AssociationAward,

VimalaVPaiWorldKonkaniSahitya Puraskar, Dr TMA Pai Konkani SahityaPuraskar.

Mangaluru: Poet Melvyn Rodrigues to lead

Konkani in Kendra Sahitya Akademi

MediaRelease

Mangaluru, Mar 11: Konkani poet, language activist,and the founder of Kavita Trust, Melvyn Rodrigues hasbeenelectedastheconvenorof Konkani Advisory Board of Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi at the general council meeting held on March 11,attheSahityaAkademiofficesin New Delhi which was attended by 99 newly elected members from variouslanguages.

Thisisthefirsttimeinthehistoryof Sahitya Akademi anyone from outside Goa has been elected to leadtheKonkaniAdvisoryBoard.By

virtueofthiselection,Melvynwillbe a member of the executive council of theSahitya Akademiforthe next fiveyears.

EarlierinthemonthofJanuary2023

Melvyn was nominated to the generalcouncilofSahityaAkademi. Melvyn’s name was chosen by the outgoinggeneralcouncil,outofthe several recommendations received from various Konkani institutions affiliated to the Akademi. PurnanandaCharifromGoahasalso been nominated to the general council and he represents the Konkani language from the state of Goa.

A graduate in business managementandapostgraduatein sociology, Melvyn is currently working as the director of operations, at Daijiworld Media Private Limited. He has the

experience, working as a qauality assuranceauditorintheMiddleEast for15years.

He is the founder of Kavita Trust, whichhasorganizedmorethan220 programmes on poetry and published34bookstodate. His published works include 1novella, 6-poetry collections, 3translations, 2-collection of essays, 6-edited works, and 1-musical album.

Melvyn has won many awards. Prominent among them are Sandesha award for Konkani literature(2021),MCADohaQatar’s Kala Puraskar (2019), Daiji Dubai LiteraryAward(2016),Smt.VimalaV Pai Vishwa Konkani Best Konkani Poetry Book Award (2016) for the Poetry Collection ‘Devi Ninkasi’, Sahitya Akademi Award (2011) for the Poetry Collection ‘Prikriticho Paas’, DrTMAPaiFoundation'Best KonkaniBookAward-2009'forthe

book 'Prikriticho Paas', Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Academy Honourary Award for Literature –2006, Konkani Kuttam Bahrain Award(2006).

Melvyn was the president of the 24th All India Konkani Sahitya SammelanheldinCanacona,Goain the year 2019 and is the vicepresident of All India Konkani Parishad. He is also a trustee of the Konkani Language and Cultural Foundation.

In the meanwhile, Madhav Kaushik from Haryana has been elected as the president of Sahitya Akademi andDrKusumSharmafromDelhias the vice-president. Elections for the advisoryboardconvenersofvarious languagesrecognizedunderthe8th schedule of the constitution were held during the day. Sahitya Akademi awards will be bestowed later in the day and the week-long festivalofletterswillcontinue.

Women must Arise Now and #EmbraceEquity.

On 13 February, a mother and her daughterwereburntaliveduringan encroachment clearing drive in DehatvillageofKanpur;theincident thatkilleda44-year-oldmotherand her 21-year-old daughter had triggered massive tension between police and the villagers.A few days earlier,on7February,inKarnataka’s Koppal district, a Dalit woman was

an upper-caste man when she enteredhispropertytogethercow back. The animal had apparently strayed inside the man’s land. Early in January, a thirty-year-old Adivasi woman belonging to the Oraon tribe was allegedly raped and killed

by forest department officials in Bihar’s Rohtas district while she was gathering firewood in a forested areanearRohtasgarhFort.Notlong

-

*FrCedric PrakashSJ

beatenwith slippersand abused by

ago, the photos of over one hundred Muslim women, including journalists and activists, were displayed on an app saying they were for sale, to humiliate and intimidate them. In September 2020, the gang-rape of a 19-yearold Dalit girl in Hathras UP tore at

the conscience of the nation. Sadly, a few days ago on 2 March a court in UP acquitted three of the four accused men; the fourth was found guiltyonlyofculpablehomicidenot amounting to murder and under sectionsoftheSC/STActbutnotof rape!

All these heinous crimes against women were reported by some media, in a matter-of-fact way, as though such violations need to be expected. The tragedy is that these incidents are not one-offs; they are representative of a systemic wrong that exists in a highly patriarchal society, which thrives on a

chauvinistic mind-set. According to a 2018 survey by the prestigious ThomsonReutersFoundation, India is the most dangerous country for sexualviolenceagainstwomen.The statusofwomeninIndiaisabysmal: the World Economic Forum (WEF) ranked India at 135 out of 146 countries in its Global Gender Gap (GGG) Index for 2022. India’s National Crime Records Bureau(NCRB) in its latest report shows that, crime against women rose by 15.3 per cent in 2021from the previous year, with 4,28,278 cases registered last year following 3,71,503 cases in 2020. The NCRB report also shows that the rate of crime against women(number of incidents per 1 lakh population) increasedfrom56.5percentin2020 to 64.5 per cent in 2021. All this is certainly a crying shame for a country, which today holds the Presidency of the G-20 and is also desperatelytryingtopropelitselfto be the world leader- with plenty of cover-upsandcosmetics!

As another International Women’s Day(IWD) dawns, there will be the usual round of cosmetic programmes, the plethora of

speeches reeking in tokenism; male speaker after speaker will wax eloquent with that typically patronising attitude towards women. The sad and cruel reality is thatpreciouslittleseemstochange. In India, most women continue to be condemned to live as secondclass citizens in patriarchal and male-dominated societies. Male domination continues in all the major religions! Interestingly the campaign theme for IWD 2023 and beyond is to #EmbraceEquity. The concept notes states that, “Equity isn'tjustanice-to-have,it'samusthave. A focus on gender equity needstobepartofeverysociety's DNA…Equity means creating an inclusiveworld…Eachoneofuscan actively support andembrace equitywithin our own sphere of influence…. We can all challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and seek out inclusion.Collectiveactivismiswhat drives change.From grassroots action to wide-scale momentum,we can allembrace equity.Forginggenderequityisn't limitedtowomensolelyfightingthe good fight. Allies are incredibly

Significantly, 14 February was also the anniversary of the ‘One Billion Rising’ movement. It is the biggest massactiontoendviolenceagainst women (cisgender, transgender, and those who hold fluid identities that are subject to gender-based violence) in human history. The campaign, which launched on Valentine’s Day 2012, began as a call to action based on the staggering statistic that 1 in 3 womenontheplanetwillbebeaten or raped during her lifetime. With the world population at 7 billion, this adds up to more than one

importantforthesocial,economic, cultural,andpoliticaladvancement ofwomen…. Everyoneeverywhere canplayapart” .

billionwomenandgirls.TheTheme ofthecampaignfor2023is‘Risefor Freedom’.Thecampaignstatesthat, “thisyearwecallontheworldtorise for freedom. freedom from patriarchy and from all its progeny…. capitalism, impunity, poverty, oppression, division, exploitation, shame, control, individualism,greed,violence…and in this rising…create the new culture.”

True there have been (and are) several women who have had the courage to embrace equity and to create this new culture. The list is endless but includes the likes of Savitribai Phule, widely regarded as the country’s first woman teacher. She died on 10 March 1897.She is credited with laying the foundation of education opportunities for women in India and played a major role in the struggle for women's rights in the country during the British rule. She wasa poettoo; her poems were against discrimination and of the need for education. For most of her life, she campaigned vigorously against untouchability, the tradition of sati, child marriage and other social evils, which affect

women. In one of her poems she writes,“end misery of the oppressedandforsaken…breakthe chainsofcaste.”Alongwithherwas Fatima Sheikh who was India's first female Muslim teacher Together Savitribai and Fatima spearheaded an educational revolution in the 1800s. Fatima Sheikh played an essential role in starting the country's first girls’ school. In 1848, Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule were asked to leave their home due to theiranti-Brahmanicalviews.Atthat time, educating women and the lower caste was considered a sin. Along with her brother, Usman Sheikh, Fatima Sheikh gave refuge tothemandstartedtheschoolfrom the same building. Sheikh even undertook a teacher's training coursealongwithPhuletoassisther in managing the educational institution.

In our midst today, we have Justice B V Nagarathna who is making waves in the Supreme Court! Recently, she pronounced two dissenting judgements; both were verdicts of 4:1. The other four who opinedwereallmalejudges!Justice Nagarathna has however been

unflinching and undeterred: her views have certainly not gone unnoticed Both the print and the electronic media ( including the majority pro- establishment ones ) have provided the space and given thenecessarycoveragetoherviews There are several editorials and opeds singing paeans to her judgements - with legal luminaries, academics and other intellectuals vyingwitheachothertocritiqueher judgements and at the same time provide grist to the mill. The Supreme Court is still a male bastion. Being a lone woman on a bench with four other men, is perhaps not very easy. It requires grit and determination to think differently! Justice BV Nagarathna has undoubtedly proved that her ability to stand up to men who call the shots, is no flash- in- the- pan! She already seems to have broken theglassceiling!

Then we have the horrendous tragedy of twenty-one years ago, whichengulfedGujarat. BilkisBano experienced it all. Following the burning of the S-6 compartment and tragic death of 59 persons (mainly ‘karsevaks’)on27February 2002, all hell broke loose, the next day, in several parts of Gujarat. Sensing trouble, a group of seventeen persons fled their native village of Radhikpur in Dahod district.The group comprised Bilkis, herthree-year-olddaughterSaleha, her mother and fourteen others. They took refuge in another village Chhaparvad hoping they would be safe there. On 3 March, however, they were attacked by about 20-30 people armed with sickles, swords, and sticks. Among the attackers were the eleven accused men, just setfree.Bilkis,hermother,andthree other women were raped and brutallyassaulted.Oftheseventeen Muslims,eightwerefounddead,six weremissing.OnlyBilkis,aman,and a three-year-old child survived the attack.Bilkiswasunconsciousfor at leastthreehours;aftersheregained consciousness, she borrowed clothes from an Adivasi woman made her way to the Limkheda

police station to register a complaint. The Head Constable there, according to the CBI, “suppressed material facts and wrote a distorted and truncated versionofBilkis’complaint” .

Bilkis has relived the horror of that tragedy several times over as she unwaveringly narrates the brutality, she was subject too. In great pain shesays, “Allthe4menofmyfamily were killed brutally. The women werestrippednakedandrapedby manymen.Theycaughtmetop.My 3-year-olddaughter,Saleha,wasin myarms.Theysnatchedherand threwherintotheairwithalltheir might.Myheartbrokeasherlittle headshatteredontherocks.Four mencaughtmebythearmsand legsandmanyothersenteredme onebyone.Whensatisfyingtheir lust,theykickedmeandbeatmy headwitharod.AssumingthatIwas deadtheythrewmeintothebushes. FourorfivehourslaterIregained myconsciousness. I searched for someragstocovermybodybut couldn’tfindany.Ispentadayand ahalfonahilltopwithoutfoodor water.Ilongedfordeath . Finally,I managedtofindatribalcolony.

DeclaringmyselfasaHinduIsought shelterthere.Themenwhoattacked ususedfoullanguage;Ican'trepeat itever.Infrontofmetheykilledmy mother,sisterand12otherrelatives. Whilerapingandkillingus,they wereshoutingsexualabuses.Icould noteventellthemthatIwasfive monthspregnantbecausetheirfeet wereonmymouthandneck.Ihave knownthemenwhorapedmefor many years. We sold them milk. Theywereourcustomers.Ifthey hadanyshame,theywouldnothave donethistome.HowcanIforgive them?"

Herdoggedandrelentlesspursuit for justice ensured that eleven of the perpetrators of this dastardly crime were sentenced to life imprisonment. In a clear travesty of

justice on 15 August 2022, they were all given remission to their sentence and set free! Bilkis’ struggle continues as she fights so

thatthesecriminalsaresentbackto jail. In a public statement on 17 August 2022, she said “Twodays agoonAugust15,2022,thetrauma ofthepast20yearswashedoverme again. When I heard that the 11 convictedmenwhodevastatedmy familyandmylife,andtookfrom me my 3-year-old daughter, had walkedfree,Iwasbereftofwords.I amstillnumb.TodayIcanonlysay this-howcanjusticeforanywoman endlikethis?Itrustedthehighest courts in our land. I trusted the system,andIwaslearningslowlyto livewithmytrauma.Thereleaseof theseconvictshastakenfromme mypeaceandshakenmyfaithin justice.Mysorrowandmywavering faithisnotformyselfalonebutfor everywomanwhoisstrugglingfor justiceincourts.Nooneenquired about my safety and well-being, beforetakingsuchabigandunjust decision. I appeal to the Gujarat Government,pleaseundothisharm. Give me back my right to live withoutfearandinpeace.Please ensurethatmyfamilyandIarekept safe” . Blikis continues to wait for justice!

IthasnotbeeneasyforSavitribai

and Fatima, for Nagarathna and Bilkis and for several other women who have dared the system and worked towards change! These are women who have risen against all odds,ploughedthelonelypathand courageously decided to embrace equity. These epitomise the immortal words of Maya Angelou, theAmericancivilrightsactivistand poet:

Outofthehutsofhistory’ssham, Irise.

Upfromapastthat’srootedin pain,Irise.

I'm a black ocean,leapingand wide, WellingandswellingIbearinthe tide.

Leavingbehindnightsofterror andfear,Irise

Into a daybreak that’s wondrouslyclear,Irise.

Bringing the gifts that my ancestorsgave, Iamthedreamandthehopeof theslave,Irise!

Yes, Women must Arise Nowand Embrace Equity!

6 March 2023

(*Fr. Cedric Prakash SJ is a human rights, reconciliation, and peace activist/writer. Contact: cedricprakash@gmail.com

(*Fr.CedricPrakashSJisahuman rights, reconciliation, and peace activist/writer. Contact: cedricprakash@gmail.com -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Is GEM Culture the Victim of AcademicBaloney?

(GEM – Goan, East-Indian, Mangalorean)

Since this is an extensive topic and we have dividedits presentation intofourparts.

Part I:GEM’s Colonial Culture.

PartII:Indo-PortugueseHeritage.

PartIII:GEM’sColonialEducation.

Part IV: GEM’sDiaspora Culture

(Continuedfromlast week)

The forests and fields soak up the waters of the rivers and the monsoon(annual125inches/3200 mm over a four-month period) are thebackboneofthelocaleconomy.

All through the west coast, agriculture is the mainstay with harvesting of rice, coconut and the seas. In addition, regions have

niche crops of coffee and tea plantations, cashew nut and beetle nut groves, and scattering of farms growing spices, sugarcane, and tropical fruits. From the Ghats the natives harvest timber and produce paper and other byproducts. The people are into multi-generational pursuit of the “family profession” or business. To make life interesting, myths alive, and keep groups together,collectivefestivalsdotthe year; and do so even today, which serveas tourists’ attractions.

At times there is the tendency to contest the Mangalorean and Goan communities. Thistotallymissesthe point. An anthropologist (fullfledged or want-to-be) should study the two communities and their counterpart in Bombay to evaluate the effect surroundings have on groups’ social behavior, its adaptation and evolution. For the Mangalorean the milieu would be the native Indian, for Goan it would be the Western influence, and for the Bombay/ Mumbai resident a very competitive academic (for youth) and urban economic environment. Coastal Karnataka Catholics preserving their

traditional customs was more likely relatedtosimilarfolkcustomsinthe larger population; while their kin in Goa let some customs slide for the samereason. TheGoancommunity couldproduceitsownJaneGoodall and advance the work on social evolution and adaption barely explored by Charles Darwin. I am amazed how resourceful the Konkanispeakinglinguisticminority of Coastal Karnataka bridged the gap by writing their language (Konkani) in Kanada script – very inventive! And their Goan counterpart wrote the same language in Roman script all to adapttotheirenvironment.

TheBritishruledCoastal Karnataka from1799to1947(148years).

PortugueseruledBassein-Cortedo Norte region 1534 to 1737 (203 years)

MarathasacquiredBasseinfromthe Iberians and ruled it from 17371774

Britain ruled the Bassein region (northofGoa)from1774to1947 (173years)

Indiawonitsindependencefrom Britain.

A focused discussion on colonial dispersion of the Konkani people shouldbedivided:

Migrationpriorto1510 – whenGoa was flipped every few years between Hindu Hampi and Muslim Bahmanirule.

Likely no migration between 1510 and 1534 as the population of Tiswadi’s three islands was stripped by three wars prior to final Iberian victoryin1510.

Migration 1534 to 1560 – after acquisition of Bardez and Salcette Talukas

Migration after 1560 – with introduction of Inquisition, correlating the exodus waves with Bijapur-Iberian battles and Maratha-Iberianskirmishes.

Red Roof tiles are to Mangalore

what gondolas are to Venice. The KonkanandCoastalKanaraareredrock country, which at the peak of summer looks like the exposed blood and bones of the earth. Goa usestherockcalledlateritestonein construction. (It also exports Manganese ore). Mangalore is famous for its extensive red tile industry, which successfully operates more than 20 kilns and

plants. The use of red roof tiles has a long and illustrious history: The Chinese installed the tiles on their structures as early as 10,000 BCE. Thecoveringgetsitsnamefromthe red tint of the iron in the clay (similar to laterite stone found in Goa and used in construction).

Mangalore tiles are the most sought-after for buildings in India, especially during the colonial days. SimilartilesusedonroofsinEurope are called Spanish/ Mexican/ Mediterranean tiles. Tile making in CoastalKarnatakahasaninteresting origin.

A by-product of religious and militarychaosinEuropeintheearly 19th century was the creation of the Basel Mission in Switzerland. Theartisan-religious groupstarted in 1815, as a joint effort of Basel’s Swiss Calvinists and German Lutherans in response to a possible invasionbyNapoleon;andthegoal was to preserve their traditions by setting up off-shoot communes all over Europe, which soon spread to Africa, China and India. The Indian Mission started in 1834 in Mangalore with a weaving industry (1841), and a printing press

publishing a newspaper and translating the bible to the native dialects of Kannada and Tulu.The collective brought their handcrafts andskillstoIndiacreatinghands-on projects in cottage industries, agriculture,weaving,healthcareand women’s education and their ‘Balmatta books’ , now read in severalSouthIndianlingos.

George Plebst aGermanengineerwith the Missioniscreditedwithbuildingthe first tile factory in Balmatta in 1865. CombiningthebestofIndian and German know-how and using the unique laterite clay deposits found in the native riverbeds they produced newly designed tiles.With innovations, Mangalore kilns were producing roof tiles that were durable and affordable by the middleclass;andtheyalsocameup with other products like bricks, earthenware cooking pots, flower vases andotherterracottaproducts.The Basel Mission’s endeavors in India were a great success, but became thevictimofAnglo-Germanconflict inWorldWarI. Yet,thetilemaking industry continues and still thrives

asnumerous private enterprises, which cropped up in the South Kanararegion.

The clay tiles are especially suited forhotandwetclimatesprevalentin Asia, the Mid-East and Africa, and were made popular by the Spanish intheircoloniesinAmerica.Thetiles are identified by a variety of names

Mangalore, Spanish, Mexican, barrel, and undulating tiles. Coastal Karnataka tiles are exported to countries across Australia, Africa and Europe. While many tiles are made of terracotta, the Indian variety is made from natural ironrich clay. The shape and the duration of firing the tiles increase thetile’sstrength.Thecurvedshape of the tile also provides ideal drainage for rainwater and waterproofing while permitting ventilation for the warm air to escape. In the winter, the tile provides natural insulation. As an added benefit, it does not deteriorate from salt-infused spray incoastalareas.Toavoiddamaging the tile and accidental falls, roofers require special skills when working on a tile roof. Red tiles are iconic; they enhance the architectural

details of the building, add a rippling texture to the roof as well as provide their own charm and distinctive ornamentation. Tile roofsareoftenadominatingfeature of historic buildings and homes in the tropics. Even world-renowned home-designer Frank Lloyd Wright used the tiles in the construction of his modern buildings. Today, lightweight synthetic material is used to makerooftiles.

We hope you enjoyed reading this aspect of history, which includes a lot of “food for thought.” Please forward these articles to your relatives, friends, peers, as well as IndianandIberianchatsites.

Extracted from “Insights into ColonialGoa”

Published via Amazon in paperbackande-book.

Fordetailsaboutthebookand authors click Insights into ColonialGoa.

Thee-bookisavailablein Indiaandcanbepurchasedwith Rupees.

Inthewest,thebookisalso availableinpaperback.

Sharing history is sharing our cultural heritage. Thank you for allowingustosharethiswithyou.

(TheEnd)

LourdesoftheEastVailankanni

Like many world wide Marian Shrines say, Lourdes in France, Fatima in Portugal and Guadalupe in Mexico we are sensitised by the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health at Vailankanni, 200 miles south of Chennai, the capital of southern Tamil Nadu state, a well

known pilgrim centre of India for decades.

The biggest Marian shrine in Asia, thronged by more than 10 million pilgrims a year, is known as the “Lourdes of the East,” the history of which is more than 500 years old,

- An East CoastalMarian Shrine

with miraculous appearances of Mother Mary.

Legend says, Portuguese sailors whosurvivedashipwreckwithwhat they believed was the intercession ofMaryontheirwayfromMacaoto Colombointhe18thcenturyrebuilt thechurchthathadbeenbuiltafter she had appeared to a lame boy whomshethenhealed,accordingto tradition. “The church had a miraculous beginning,” Father John Zakarias, author of the book Vailankanni Yesterday and Today, states.

“Inthelaterpartofthe16thcentury, Our Lady is said to have appeared and indicated the spot where she wanted the chapel to be erected,” said Father Zakarias, who is chancellor of the Diocese of Thanjavur, under whose authority the shrine falls.

Though there is “no historical evidence” about the first chapel at Vailankanni, Father Zakarias noted “the existence of the chapel at Vailankanni is mentioned” in the early 17th century by historian Paulo da Trinidade, who composed

achronicleofChurcheventsinAsia during1630-1635. “He refers to the churchunderthe patronage of ‘Our Lady of Health’ and cites ‘plenty of miracles’ attributed to Our Lady at Vailankanni.”

The chapel, which remained under the care of Franciscan missionaries fromPortugalforcenturies,isnowa shrine that spreads across nearly 100 acres, including the basilica, which faces the sea and the serene beach of the Bay of Bengal.

The basilica in its present form has beenbuiltinstagessince1928,with the more spacious rear-side extension constructed in the mid1970stoaccommodatemultilingual services.

The magnificent “Morning Star” Cathedral, blessed in 2013, stands on the far end of the sprawling campus that also includes churches dedicated exclusively for adoration and confessions. A 60-foot-high statueoftheSacredHeartoverlooks the basilica, and pathways with scenes of Stations of the Cross and the Rosary offer pilgrims an atmosphere conducive to prayer.

All these features make for a uniquely bustling pilgrim center, complete with lodging options. Shops and street vendors selling rosaries of all hues and designs do good business, along with offering specifically Vailankanni Marian memorabilia.

The potential for a healing remains the biggest attraction to the shrine, which was appropriately acknowledged by the Vatican with the celebration of the 10th World Day of the Sick at Vailankanni on Feb. 11, 2002.

The shrine has a testimonial center that has chronicled nearly 10,000 personal acknowledgements of miraculous healings, blessings to childless couples, dream houses built, jobs granted and lost things found.

PopeJohnPaulII,inhismessageon the occasion, referred to Vailankanni as the “Lourdes of the East.”HealsorecalledanearlierJuly 31, 1988, message in which he noted,“Todaymillionsofpeopleare coming to Vailankanni throughout the year to seek the intercession of

Our Lady of Health, Vailankanni.”

Besides the people of Tamil Nadu, thousands of pilgrims from across the country and outside, especially from the Catholic heartlands of Kerala,Karnataka,Goa,Mumbaiand other parts of India, flock to the shrine.

The Sept. 8 feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, preceded by a novena, draws nearly 2 million pilgrims each year. The biggest weekly attraction is the Saturday evening Rosary procession, with criesofAve Mariarentingtheairas sick people, some in wheelchairs, are brought in seeking healing. Dozens can be seen crawling on their knees saying the Rosary thedevotionthatremains the crux of the pilgrimage to Vailankanni. Each year a group of men from Chennai walk all the way to the shrine, generally takes about 10 days, and reach in time for the flag hoisting and start of the Novena - many such devotions can be seen here.

A lay group could be seen distributing free lunch for the

destitute and beggars under the umbrella of “Vailankanni Cares” at noon during a visit to the shrine a week before Christmas.

“We started the service during the COVID time, in March 2020, when thepoorwereinadifficultsituation. Now, we are doing it every day for at least 150 people. Sometimes we have sponsors. If not, we meet the expenses ourselves,” said Leon Anton Vijay, who coordinates the effort.

Tonsuring heads (cutting of hair to show religious devotion) in thanksgiving is a unique custom in Vailankanni.Thechurchrunsahuge tonsuring center where dozens can get tonsuring done simultaneously at a nominal fee apart, and several private salons offer the same service.

Andtheshrinedoesnotonlyattract Christianpilgrims. “Alotofpilgrims are Hindus and even Muslims,” Father C. Irudayaraj, rector of the shrine, states.

distributed free during December attheshrine. Kathirvelwastheman behind the calendar distribution. “My business is doing very well now,” the Hindu businessman who has a textile showroom, said, speaking from his base at Pondicherry, 100 miles away, highlighting the faith of even Hindus about the intercession of Mary.

Whenthedevastating2004tsunami struck the Tamil Nadu coast, nearly 900peoplediedinthevicinityofthe Marian shrine, including hundreds of pilgrims. A memorial pillar has been erected at the spot where those who perished were buried together.

Asreportedatthetime,despitethe death and devastation around the shrine, water miraculously did not enter the church when Mass was in progress.Consequently,notasingle person died in the church. The miraculous intervention of Vailankanni Mother is experienced ingeneralatalltimeshere.

A 2023 calendar with a Vailankanni Mother picture was being

Anto Akkara has been a journalist withinternationalmediaforabout3 decadesnow.He hasbaggedmany

national and international awards for his reporting and writing on controversial matters. For his exclusive work on Kandhamal.The author has been conferred the prestigious 'Titus Brandsma Award for Journalism' in 2013. He is a renowned contributor to Catholic causes and has many writings and books tohis credit. - Adapted with permission for VEEZ Weekly - Veez Medianetwork.

Anto Akkara, Register correspondent writes from Bangalore,India.

Slave Prince Royal King....

Imprisonedin thelandofhis ancestors, SouthAfrica

Born a youngPrince toa royal clan

Lovedandpamperedschooled andprepared

Tobethenextleaderofhis tribe

Nothis mother norhis father eversawthis day

Theplans life hadforthe son they lovedsomuch

A steelydetermination was growingwithin

-MollyPinto.Mangalore.

Sodidhis zeal forfreedomand justice

His soulsoared abovealldangers

Longingtobeset free likethe birdsofhis land

Nolonger will his peoplecry orbearthepains ofinjustice

His firewas burningandhis followers willing

A noblesoul ofstrengthhonouranddignity

Chose toriseabovehis tormentors

Neveryieldingtoviolence neveryieldingtocrime

Gavehis youthin sacrifice foracausethat firedhis soul

Twenty Seven years he servedhis foreign masters

But only his bodydidtheyimprison forthesoul stillsoared

Neveronce givingin toan evilheart ofstone

But findinghis gloryandjusticetothe real powerbeyond

We needmore men likeyou Madiba_/\

-MollyPinto.Mangalore.

YOU KNOW YOU ARE SINGLE

You knowyou are singlewhen your heart forces you tomingle,but the mindwarns you every timeyour heart tingles.

You knowyou aresinglewhen you getup andfirstlythinkabout god andsleep peacefullywithhope in your heart.

You knowyou aresinglewhen your inboxis empty andwhen you don’t have to panicseeingthe missedcalls.

You knowyou aresinglewhen dressingup isnot ataskbuta luxury you pamper yourself with.

You knowyou are single,when thesightof couple standingbywill stir your heart but notyour mind.

You knowyou aresinglewhen you don’t thinka lot tosayyesand neverlookback whilesteppingahead.

You knowyou aresinglewhen hangingout with friendsis funand spendingtimewith family bringsjoyworth aton.

You knowyou aresinglewhen you smile often andmoments tocry are rare.

You knowyou aresinglewhen you areindependent emotionallyand boldenoughto takedecisions rationally.

You knowyou aresinglewhen you knowwhen tosayyesandwhen not tosayno.

You knowyou aresinglewhen memories aresweeterthan reality and wait is better than meeting.

You knowyou aresinglenotbyforcebut bychoice. You knowyou aresingle:

When you have the patience towait andwalksometimes those extra miles justto keep the heart securefortheonewhois right.

-Sonal Lobo,Bengaluru

Robert Pershing Wadlow who was nicknamed as the “Alton Giant” still remains the tallest man in the world’s history: he was 272 cm (8′ 11”) tall and weighed 199 kg (439 lb). Unfortunately, he died at the age of 22 in 1940.

St Aloysius College(Autonomous),Mangaluru

Impetus 2023, Innovation and EntrepreneurshipDay

Research and Innovation Cell in association with Entrepreneurship and Consultancy cell of St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, jointly organised 3 Day Impetus 2023, Innovation and

Entrepreneurship Day, on 13-15, February2023.Theprogrammewas inaugurated on 13.02.2023. Dr Smitha Hegde, Professor, Nitte

University Centre for Science, EducationandResearch,Derlekatte, Mangaluru,wastheChiefGuestand

Keynote Speaker. Rev. Fr. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Principal, presided over the programme. About 430 students participated in the programme. Dr Suresh Poojary, Dean, Research and Innovation welcomed the gathering. Dr Smitha Hegdespokeabouthowinnovation was different from Invention. She spoke about the different types of Innovations with interesting and humours examples. She explained about the procedure for filing a patent.

Rev. Fr. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Principal spoke on the innovative mind and the way innovative ideas must be used for start-up. Father motivated the students to think beyond the box and venture into entrepreneurship. He said College willprovideseedmoneyforthebest startup projects to complete those projects. Dr Alwyn D’Sa, Registrar, spoke on the occasion and encouraged students to take up entrepreneurship.

Panel discussion was conducted on Innovation and Entrepreneurship,

notable entrepreneurs, Mr.Vishwas Shishir, Chairman Startup Committee, KCCI, Mangaluru, Ms. Preethi Nayak, Partner, Jyothi Cycle and Fitness Founder Health Bricks, Mangaluru and Mr. Mithun Bhat Kakunje, Entrepreneur, Mangaluru, participatedinthepaneldiscussion. Panel discussion was moderated by Mr. Manoj Fernandes. Start-up opportunities, start-up funding and various other issues relating to entrepreneurship were discussed. Students and panel members’ interaction with questions and answerswereheld.

Dr Denis Fernandes, Director of Arrupe Block, Dr Mamatha, Dean of Entrepreneurship and Consultancy Cell, Dr Caroleena Jenefar, Staff Cordinator and student coordinator Mr. Junaid Jushiddi were presentontheoccasion.

Impetus 2023 Day 2, the Start-up Expo began at 10 am on 14th of February 2023 at Mother Teresa PeaceParkofthecampus.TheExpo wasformallyinauguratedbycutting the ribbon by two eminent guests invited to share their industry experience.35studentstart-upsput

up their stalls and sold their productsalongwithlocalproducers of Jaalasanthe members. Principal Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, presided over the programme, Dr Suresh Poojary, Dean, Research and Innovation Cell welcomed the gathering, The Chief Guest Mr. DeekshithRai,founderofCodeCraft technologies, brought out his distinct experience in collaborating, providing corporate services and consultancy to top businesses aroundtheglobe.Inhismessageto the crowd, he reiterated our beliefs in endless possibilities, the need to hustle and have an appetite for stress, to stay relevant at all times and to constantly push our limits. The Guest of honour Mr. Jeevan Saldanha, founder of Spectrum industries, Mangaluru, with nearly 30 decades of wisdom recollected some valuable lessons on starting hisownbusinessinthe90s.Hesaid passionandpersistenceofaperson will determine the success of entrepreneurship. Father Principal askedeveryonetostayabreastwith present knowledge and to be adaptive. The formal function was

concluded by the vote of thanks proposed by Dr Mamatha. Day 2 of Impetus 2023 kick-started when start-ups were opened for business with the sole motive of creating an entrepreneurship ecosystem in the campus. Staff co-ordinator Dr. CaroleenaJaneferfromtheDept.of Commerce and student coordinator Mr. Junaid Jushiddi gracedtheoccasion.

Impetus 2023, Day 3, IDEATHON and START-UP presentations were held on 15th February 2023. 14 teams for IDEATHON and 15 teams for START- UP participated and presented their ideas. Mr. Reji, Department of Economics coordinated the events. Day 3 events were concluded with a formal valedictory programme where Dr Richard Gonsalves, DirectorofLCRIBlockwastheChief Guest. He stressed about developing entrepreneurship skills among the students and the importance of patents. The winners of IDEATHON were Mr. Veron D Costa and team – first place, Mr.

.Junaid – second place and Ms. Arshal D’ Souza – third place. The

winners of START- UP were Mr. Kirinjit - first place, Mr. Hamdan Hassen – second place and Mr. Ayush K A and team – third place.

Mr. Junaid Jushiddi, student coordinator proposed vote of thanks.

Women Architects of Society: Dr. Grace Pinto

Mumbai (RBI), March.08: March 8 is annuallycelebratedasInternational Women’s Day around the world to draw attention and support to women’s equality and their empowerment. Itexhorts everyone

to stand for change for women of our society and help them achieve their ambitions and fulfill their aspirations. This day celebrates all women and applauds women achievers for their contribution in diversesegments. Italsorecognizes challengestospurneedfulactionto address the gaps that still deprive women of their right to live a dignified life with freedom. In this direction the UN theme for the women’s day “DigitALL: Innovation andtechnologyforgenderequality” is focused on empowerment of all womenandgirlsthrougheducation inthisdigitalage.

Women play a very significant role in transforming society. Hillary

Clinton had aptly said, “Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world.” Due to access to education, women are able to realize their potential and make positive contribution to socioeconomic progress globally. Despite many obstacles, women in India are making every effort to break the glass ceiling. Indian women have definitely made a significant impact with their leadership at national and international levels. We have Indra Nooyi,formerCEOofPepsico,Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw – Chairperson of Biocon, Madhabi Puri Buch –Chairperson of SEBI, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan – Chief Scientist of WHO,RoshniNadarMalhotra–CEO of HCL, Nirmala Sitharaman –Finance Minister of India, Kamala Harris,thefirstwomantobeelected as US Vice President among many other women stalwarts who have made commendable contribution. These are just a few of the many shining examples that only show thatwomenaretrulythereservoirof talent who have all the potential to leadandmakeadifferenceinevery

sphereoflife.

Women are the foundation of the familyandofsocietyitself.Sheisthe architect of our society. Dr. B.R Ambedkar had rightly expressed, “I measure the progress of a community by the degree of progress which women have achieved.” Being a woman translates into determination, progress and transformation. Determination to change every challenge into opportunity, take on leadership to achieve progress and spearhead ideas to bring about social and economic transformation. As Maya Angelou wouldsay,weneedwomenwhocan stand up for themselves because every time they stand up for themselves they stand up for all women.”

Today on this special day, I urge all the incredible, talented, and wonderful women to realize your potential and achieve your aspirations in life. You are God’s masterpiece, a symbol of virtue, strength, patience and above all resilience. Embrace your god-given

abilities and talents, have faith in yourself and learn to use them fearlesslytocontributetotheworld around you. Develop intolerance for mediocrity and aspire for excellence even if the going gets tough. You are precious! And

always remember, “Forward ever, Backwardnever…”

Belated HappyWomen’s Day!

Dr.Grace Pinto Managing Director: Ryan InternationalGroupofInstitutions

Mount Carmel Central School conductsaprojecton‘Knowthe Millets–EmbraceGoodHealth.’

The International year of Millets 2023 led the students of Mount Carmel Central School, Mangaluru toknowthemiraclesof Millets.The students of grades I, II and III put theirbestfootforwardtoundertake a project on Millets called, “Know theMillets – Embrace good health.” The students undertook the project with great excitement and fervour. The project was executed through seven interesting activities from February10thto28th2023.

On Day 1, the students of Grades I, II and III were given a brief

awareness by their teachers of the various millets grown in India, its benefits through a Power Point Presentationandavideoclipping. The Day 2 activity enhanced the curiosityofthestudentsastheyfelt the size, shape, texture and colour of the different millets followed by anactivityofgermination.

TheDay3broughtintheawareness in the students of the richness in agriculture and the different States of our country in which the millets are cultivated. Next, an evaluation wasconductedinwhichthe

studentsidentifiedthegivenmillets with the particular State. Grade II studentswerebusywiththeirhands workingonbeautifulcraftprepared withthemillets.Thetastebudswere tickledbytheyummyhealthymillet drink prepared by the mentors assistedbythestudents.

OnDay4,thestudentsbecameone with the melody of the song, ‘Chal Bharath, Ut Bharath’ when they learnt this song on millets. They jumpedwithjoyastheytunedtheir spiritstothetuneofthisjollysong.

OnDay 5,the unsung heroes“Our

was depicted very meaningfully in theformofaskitbythestudentsof GradeI.

Day 6 was truly an adventure to witness the miracles of millets. The students brought with them the germinatedmillet.Thescenelooked like the fields walking into the classroomsofMCCS.

The Day 7 was worth the 6 days activities,becauseitwasatempting, “Millet Snack Break “which was the best and the finest part of the project. The International Science

Farmers – The toil of their hands”

Day was celebrated with great joy

byhavinga‘MilletSnackBreak’.The supportive parents prepared a snackoftheallottedmilletandsent it with their ward to be shared with others. It was gratifying and heartwarming to see the students sitting inacircleasafamilyenjoyingmillet snacks to their heart’s content. This project was a great experience to focus on our good health and spread the awareness of the miraclesofMilletsonourhealth.

Kindly click on the link to have the glimpses of the project

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v =6yOLwVAe9HU

Women’s Day celebrated at Guardian Angel Church, Angelore

As part of the International Women’s Day, the Catholic Sabha and Sthree Sanghatan of Guardian Angel Church, Angelore, Nagori, Mangalore celebrated Women’s Day on 5th March 2023. Eleven ladies who rendered selfless service tothesocietyin social, educational,

spiritual, political, health, sports, agriculture,andbusinessareaswere felicitated. Mrs. Flora Castelino, HOD, Konkani Department, St. Aloysius College, Mangalore was the chief guest of the programme.

Rev. Fr William Menezes, Parish Priest, Guardian Angel Church

presided over the programme. Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinho, Assistant Parish Priest; Mr. Paul Rodrigues, VicePresidentoftheParishPastoral Council; Mrs. Lolina D’Souza, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; Ms. Renita Menezes, Coordinator of 21 Pastoral Commissions; Mr. Felix Moras, President of Catholic Sabha,

Angelore Unit; Mrs. Sunitha D’Souza, President of Sthree Sanghatan, and Mrs. Renita Vas werepresentonthedais.Mr.Rajesh Misquith and team sang felicitation song for the women. The members ofSthreeSanghatanentertainedthe gathering with their dances. Mr. Manohar Saldanha and Mrs. Lolina D’Souza compèredthe programme.

DiocesanCatechismDayCelebration:

87TopScorersin10stdCatechism Examination Felicitated. Golden Jubilee Year of Mangala Jyothi inaugurated.

Report & Photos: Fr Anil Fernandes,CCCMangalore

Mangala Jyothi, the Diocesan Biblical, Catechetical, Liturgical Centre, Bajjodi celebrated Catechism Day 2022-23 at the diocesanlevelonSunday,March05, 2023 at Shanthi Kiran Pastoral Centre,Bajjodi,Mangalore.

Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul Dsouza, Bishop Emeritus, Diocese of Mangalore celebrated the Holy Eucharist and presided over the

felicitation programme. 87 catholic students who scored highest in the 10standard Catechism Examination 2022-23werefelicitated.

Dr Caroline Dsouza, Neuropsychiatristdeliveredamotivational talk on the “Role of Parents and Children in building a better relationship in the family.” Many parents and students clarified their doubts and sought expert knowledge on various aspects of life.

Chief Guest Mr Nigel Fernandes, CEO, ATC Publishers, Bangalore, Mr RichardAlvares,(Co-ordinator,New Value Education Book), Rev. Fr

Antony Shera, Secretary, Catholic Board of Education, Fr Boniface Pinto, former director of Mangala Jyothi, Fr Vijay Machado, Director, MangalaJyothi,FrVincentSequeira, Secretary, Bible Commission and Assistant Director, Mangala Jyothi and Fr Uday Fernandes, Principal, MilagresCentralSchool,Mangalore werethedignitariespresentamong thestudentsandparents.

SumanthDominicPereira, Maryvale

High School, Kinnigoli and Rachel Maria Pais, St Agnes CBSE School, Bendur shared their experiences of Catechism Classes in the parishes and Schools and the role of value educationclassesintheirlife.

Rev. Fr Antony Shera felicitated the catechism teachers who won the prizesintheessaycompetitionheld inEnglishandKannada.

AnewsetofValueEducationbooks publishedbyATCandMangal

Jyothi for the All-India level were released on this occasion. The donors and sponsors of the books werefelicitated.

Inauguration of Golden Jubilee

Year of Mangala Jyothi (19732023)

Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul Dsouza along with other dignitaries inaugurated the Golden Jubilee

YearofMangalaJyothibyunveiling thegoldenlogoofMangalaJyothi.

Bishop appreciated the former and present directors of Mangal Jyothi for growing and nurturing the centreandmakingabrandnamein proclaiming the Good News of the Lord. Bishop also greeted all the topscorersandtheirparents.

The programme was compered by Mr Lancy Ammembal and assisted bythemembersoftheCommission for Catechetics and Bible and MangalaJyothiStaffmembers.

Sabellaria:Theworm engineers

Sabellaria,aspeciesofroundworm, commonly known as the honeycomb worm, is a marine species found along rocky shores. Unlike other marine organisms that are susceptible to the harsh waves and tides of the ocean, Sabellaria hasevolveduniqueadaptationsthat allow it to withstand the relentless poundingofwaves.

Sabellaria sp. creates complex and intricate structures called reefs that serve as protective homes for the

worms. These reefs are composed ofsand,shells,andotherdebristhat the worms collect and cement together using an adhesive secretion. The arrangement of the reefsalsoplaysacriticalroleintheir strength,settingalivingexampleof bioengineering. The worms build the reefs in a honeycomb-like pattern, with individual chambers connected to one another. The reefs can grow up to several centimetres in length and height

andcanprovideshelterfornotonly thewormsbutalsoforothermarine organisms such as fish, crabs, and starfish, thereby acting as biodiversityenhancers. The unique ability of Sabellaria to withstand the powerful waves and tides of the ocean has significant

implications for coastal protection and ecosystem management. In areas where Sabellaria reefs are abundant, they can serve as natural breakwaters,reducingtheimpactof wavesoncoastalinfrastructuresuch asharbours,piers,andseawalls. These worms have been found in the coastal areas of Mangalore, clinging to the rocks of Ullala and Suratkal shores. While the system appears to withstand the impact of the waves, more scientific research is needed to determine whether these worms might completely invade the rocks of the area or destabilize the surrounding sand. Nonetheless, Sabellaria provides a promising solution to coastal erosionandanewdimensiontothe studyofmarinelife.

TheLaboratoryofAppliedBiology

of St. Aloysius College, Mangalore, has been engaged in research on seaweeds for the past four years, and these unique species of worms have attracted the attention of researchers.Dr.LeoD'SouzaandDr.

Shashikiran Nivas are leading a research including Sudheeksha Kiran, Sachin Patavardhan, Jain James, and Sulakshana Karkala, examining various dimensions of the subject with the help of advancedscientificinfrastructure.

Pictures:

1. Images of dispersed Sabellaria colonies on rocky surfaces of Suratkalbeach.

2. Shovels were used to collect Sabellaria nests for research purposes.

3. Microscopic depiction of a tube like nest composed of shells and sandparticles.

4. Microscopic view of a Sabellaria larva

5. Microscopic view of a Sabellaria worm.

5. Scanning electron microscope imageofaSabellarianest,revealing a thin layer of glue on the interior surface binding the sand particles together.

TheCatholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh®

RenovatedOfficeBlessing Ceremony

TheexistingofficeinBishop House, Kodialbail Mangalore was renovated, inaugurated, and blessed today dated 06-03-2023 morning at 10:00 Am. The inauguration ceremony took place inpresence of Mr.CasmirMenezes, Ex-President of Catholic Sabha MangalorePradesh®.Ex-presidents and Spiritual Director Rev. Fr. Dr. J.

B. Saldanha lighted the lamp, blessedtheofficeandprayerservice washeld. Followed by a short ceremony which was held in the hall. The Ceremony was preceded by the Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh president Mr. Stany Lobo, Chief guest Mr. Casmir Menezes along with the other dignitaries Mr.

Maritto Sequeira past president, Estate Manager of Mangalore DioceseRev.Fr.MaximRosario,The Past Spiritual Director Rev. Fr. Walter Dmello, The Past Spiritual DirectorRev.Fr.J.B.Crasta, Amcho Sandesh Administrative Board Convener Mr. Elroy Kiran Crasto, Samanvaya Samithi Convener Mr. Nigel Pereira were the guest of honorsforthisceremony. President welcomed all the Dignitariesonandoffthedais.Every one present in the hall celebrated Mr. Casmir Menezes birthday by cutting the cake. In his speech Mr. Casmir Menezes, reminded and spoke about the struggles and difficultiesofearlierdaysofbuilding thisstrongempire“CatholicSabha”.

Mr. Maritto Sequeira congratulated the president for the renovation work of the office and appreciated his abilities and work. He also reminded on howtheygotoffice in Bishop’s house that inspired all the

pastpresidentsandofficebearersto worktogetherforthebettermentof ourcommunity.

Later as a token of appreciation, flower bouquets were offered to those who had helped and cooperated in getting the renovation work of the Catholic Sabha office done. Rev. Fr. Dr. J.B. Saldanha in his speech highlighted on how to strengthen the Catholic Sabha for the wellbeing of our community. His influencing words were worth listening and a inspirationtoallpresent.

Central Committee Past Presidents Mr.L.J. Fernandes Walter Dsouza, Andrew Noronha, Peter Jerry Rodrigues, Flavy Dsouza, Office Bearers and other Members of Central, Deaneries and Units were presentfortheCeremony.Mr.Elroy Kiran Crasto rendered the vote of thanks. Treasurer Mr. Alphonse Fernandescomperedtheprogram.

Women’s Day Celebrations atMCCBankLtd

International Women’s day was celebrated by MCC Bank to recognize the selfless service of women’s staff at PFX Memorial Auditorium at MCC bank Ltd, Mangaloreon11thMarch2023.

TheChiefguestfortheprogramwas

Rev. Sr Cecelia Mendonca B.S., Provincial Superior, Bethany Congregation, Vamanjoor, Mangalore. Directors of the Bank

Irene Rebello, Dr Freeda F. D’souza, Sharmila Menezes, Branch

Managers: Jacintha Serrao, Blanche

Fernandes, Sunitha W. D’souza, Ida

Pinto, Irene Dsouza, Jacintha Fernandes, and Wilma Jyothi Sequeirawereonthedais.

The program began with a prayer song which was led by Prathyaksh Lewis and group. Chairman Anil Lobo welcomed the gathering. While congratulating all the lady staff on the occasion of women’s day,heexplainedtheimportanceof womens day celebration and significantcontributionofwomenin allspheres.

Thefunctionwasinauguratedby

lightingthelampbythewomen presentontheDias.

Rev. Sr Cecelia Mendonca, in her keynote address congratulated the lady members of MCC Bank family on the occasion of International Women’s Day. She said the main objectiveofcelebrationofWomen’s dayistocreateawarenessaboutthe significant contribution of the women to the society and to emphasize the importance of the rights and honour of women in our society. This aspect has been mentioned in Holy Bible also. She mentioned the exemplary services rendered by Mother Theresa to the leprosy patients, poor and under privileged in the society. She said women should feel proud that the Indian President is also a woman. Womenhavebeentakingimportant roles and responsibilities in all sectors, viz. Education, Health, Economic, Politics, Science and Technology, research and even in the defense field. She emphasized the need to recognize women for their patience, sincerity, hard work, commitment, leadership, innovation, and compassion. She advisedthewomentobepositivein

theirthought,speech,andaction.

On this occasion Andrew Dsouza, Director congratulated all the womenofMCCBankandexplained the important role played by them forthewelfareofthefamily.

Director Irene Rebello gave talk on women empowerment and progressonthisoccasion.

All the Ladies on the dais were honored with Shawl, Flower bouquet, Memento and Gift and all the lady staff members were also honored.

Speaking on behalf of the women Ida Pinto, Branch Manager, Kankandy Branch expressed appreciation and gratitude to the Management for arranging such a wonderfulprogram.

Retired Branch Manager of the bank, Clifford D’costa, and Clerical Staff William Dsouza who retired after serving the bank were felicitated by the management and staff members of the Bank, with a Letter of Felicitation, Memento, Flower bouquet and gift. “Letter of

Honour” was read by Senior Manager, Deril Lasrado and Branch Manager of Karkal Branch, Rayan Praveenrespectively.

Punith Gaonkar, Sub Inspector of Police, Bunder Police Station explained different methods used bythefraudstersespeciallyinsocial media. He advised the audience to bemorevigilantwhileusingvarious platforms in the social media. He informed the audience various precautions to be taken to prevent such cyber crimes. He called upon them to utilize the service provided by the Police by dialing emergency number112andcrimehelpnumber 1930 for reporting any untoward incidents, accidents, and Cyber crimes,etc.immediately.

ViceChairmanrecitedpoemwritten

byhimontheoccasion. Nelson Monis compered, General Manager Sunil Menezes proposed thevoteofthanks. Directors, Herold Monteiro, Roshan Dsouza, Elroy K. Crasto, C.G.Pinto, J.P.Rodrigues,AnilPatrao,DrJerald Pinto, Marcel M. Dsouza, David Dsouza, Sushantha Saldanha, Felix Dcruz were also present during the occasion.

Soon after the formal function, culturalprogramwasorganizedand the audience were kept enthralled by the Gumpta songs by Agrar Group, Jokes by Memory group, Dance by the Men staff of MCC Bank and Magic show by Fr Paul SebastianDsouza.

Pics byStanly Bantwal

International Women’s Day Celebration heldat ShubadhaCentre,Suralpady

Mangaluru, Mar 8: Shubadha Social Service Centre, Suralpady

celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, 2023, at 06:30pm

at Shubadha short stay home for women, Suralpady, Kinnikambla. St Raymond’s Degree College, Vamanjoor NSS unit collaborated withtheprogramme.

Mrs Anitha Norbert DSouza, the Panchayat member of Ganjimat Gram Panchayat was the chief guest. Sr Anna Maria BS the Secretary of Shubadha Society, Suralpady presided over the programme. Sr Herita Monthi Mathias BS the Director of Shubadha Centre, Sr Jessy Crasta the Principal of St Raymond’s Degree College, Dr Sujana NSS Programme Coordinator, Mrs Theresa Rego the senior woman forms the locality, Mrs Sumathi, the President of Deepa SHG Suralpady werepresentonthedais.

SrAnnaMariaBSinherpresidential address spoke about the history of Women empowerment and highlighted some of the facts wherein women should assert their rights inthefamilyandsociety.She highlighted the achievements of great female personalities. She assured the women present on the occasion to carry on women empowerment activities in the neighbourhood. NSS students

performed two dances and entertained the audience. Sr Herita Mathias BS welcomed the guests, and the members present. She also conducted the spot games. The winners were awarded on the occasion.

Ms Vinutha Kulal the Lecturer from St Raymond’s Degree College expressed sentiments of gratitude on the occasion for all the guests and the participants. Ms Nathasha Noronha NSS student leader compeered the day’s programme. Mrs Theresa Rego was honoured beinga seniormostwomanamong theparticipants. Therewere around 60 participants such as neighbourhood women, Deepa SHG members, St Raymond’s College staff and NSS students, Shubadha staff and inmates were present for the programme. It was winded at 8.00pm. The refreshments were served on the occasion.

Reportby;

SrAnnaMaria BS

ShubadhaSociety,Suralpady

9008911135

CATECHISMDAYCELEBRATIONHELDAT STSEBASTIANCHURCH PERMANNUR

The annual catechism day was meaningfullycelebratedonSunday, March 5, with the Way of the cross

followed by the Eucharistic Celebration at 9 am officiated by Fr LeoLasradorectorofGladsom

Home & concelebrated by Fr Cyprian Pinto the parish priest. The children actively participated by taking the lead in the choir and liturgy. Following this, the second partoftheprogramwasheldinthe new Church Auditorium. The programme commenced with a prayer song. Fr Leo Lasrado the

vocation coordinator presided over the programme along with the Parish Priest Rev Fr Cyprian Pinto, Vice presidentof theParishCouncil Mr Arun Dsouza, Secretary Mrs Jyothi Dsouza, Superior of Bethel

conventSrJosephMary,Superiorof the Aloysian Boys Home Sr

Alphonsa and Mrs Jescintha Veigas

the catechism coordinator were the dignitaries on the dais. A gracious andcheerfulwelcomewasaccorded to all the dignitaries by Mrs Jescintha Veigas the catechism coordinator. Prize list was read by Babitha and Sr Royline, prizes were distributed to the students for their

goodperformanceinthecatechism exam andforsecuring100 per cent attendanceduringtheyear.MrArun Dsouza Vice President of the Parish council delivered a meaningful speech. Catechism teachers were appreciated for their service and weregivena gift asatokenoflove. Students from different classes performed value-based programmes for the audience. Swedal and Janciya compered the programme. Vincent proposed the vote of thanks. Towards the end, a sumptuouslunchwasserved.

SACholdsNationalSeminarMETANOIA’23

The Department of Social Work, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, organized a one-day National Level Seminar on Manual Scavenging –METANOIA’23on9th March 2023 in L F Rasquinha Hall, LCRIBlockoftheCollege.

Sri U.T. Khader, MLA, Mangalore Constituency was the Chief Guest and Sri A.C. Vinayaraj, Corporator, Mangalore City Coporation was the Guest of Honour. Principal, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, presided over the program. Dr Deena D’Souza,

Head of the Department of Social Work, Ms Kavya Aithappa, Convenor of the programme and Joshan John, the student coordinatorwasonthedais.

Sri U.T. Khader in his speech said, thatthemanualscavengersarevery important people in our life. He called them social doctors and that without them it is difficult to keep ourcityclean.Butatthesametime, somewhere society neglects and keeps them away due to their work orcaste.Thedutyofthesocietyisto

take responsibility of eradicating such social evils and show concern tosuchpeople.Heurgedtheyouth to spread awareness about cleanliness and hygiene in the society.

Sri A.C. Vinayaraj briefed about the difficulties of manual scavenging andthewaytheyaretreatedbythe society. He said that most of the lower caste people are engaged such kind of work and the upper caste will not take up such jobs. He

urged the audience to take measures to prevent manual scavenging. He explained the problems and difficulties faced by the manual scavengers and requested the youth to understand theirresponsibilityinthesociety. Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, in his presidential remarks spoke on manualscavenging.Hesaidthatwe can achieve something when knowledgeiscombinedwithaction. He urged the students to help the weaker sections of the society and that everyone should be treated withdignity.

This seminar was organized to educate and sensitize the audience on the practice of manual scavenging. The seminar discussed the close relationship between manual scavenging and caste, the

health concerns related to its practice, the law, and its implantation and finally, about organizing the movement towards theliberationofpersonsinvolvedin thepracticeofmanualscavenging. 3 sessions were held during the programme. Dr Sylvia Karpagam, Public Health Physician & Researcher took up the I Session. The II Session was taken up by Dr SiddarthJoshi,Activist&Researcher and the III Session was taken up by Ms Maitreyi, (AICCTU), Advocate and Mr Shanmugam V (AICCTU), Member of BBMP Pourakarmikara Sangha.

Neha Menon compered the programme.JohanJohnintroduced the guests. Dr Deena DSouza welcomed the gathering. Ms Kavya proposedthevoteofthanks.

Celebrating Women: DigitALL 2023 by Snehalaya CharitableTrust

International Women's Day is celebrated at Snehalaya Manjeshwara with the theme DigitALL 2023 Mrs Deepthi, Community Counsellor, Kudumbashree & Team Leader Jal-

Jeevan Mission, inaugurated this Occasion. Mrs Olivia Crasta, the Founder trustee cum Secretary, served as the president of the programme. The presence of Mrs TolsyTom,Psycho-SocialSchool

Counsellor Department of WCD, and Mrs Befathima, Resource Person, Kudumbasree District

Mission,Kasaragodmadethisevent inspirational. Mrs Hilda Lobo from Mangalorewashonouredforher

Humanitarianwork.

TheEventwasmademorecolourful and festive by the many cultural performances from Snehalaya staff members, residents, and students from Yenepoya college. All of the

womenwhocametotheeventwere

acknowledged and thanked. Mr Hareesh Psw welcomed the Gathering, and Mr Sirajudeen Psw delivered the vote of Thanks. Mr Clint Joseph senior Psychiatric Social worker and Ms Asha Psw served as the emcee of the Programme.

International Women’s Day Celebration heldat Jeevandhara,Kulshekar

Mangaluru, Mar 9: Jeevandhara

Social Service Trust celebrated

International Women’s Day on March9,2023,at10:30amatSacred Heart’sPry School Hall, Kulshekar.

Dr Lavina Dmell, the Principal of SrinivasCollegeofMSW,Mangalore was the chief guest. Sr Anna Maria BS, the Secretary of Jeevandhara

Social Service Trust ®, Mangalore was the President. Mr Sathish

Maben DRP, PMFME, DIC Yeyyady, Mangalore, Sr Sunitha Maria the wardenofInfantMaryHostel,SrIda Janet BS, the Director of Jeevandhara Centre along with Mrs Tamilarasi from Sadhana SHG Kongoorwerepresentonthedais.

DrLavinaDMelloconductedvarious activitiesandhighlightedthetheme of the International Women’s day i.e, Digit ALL: Innovation and

technology for gender equality. In her message she encouraged the womentobedigitallyliterateandto apply modern technology in innovation of various business enterprises in adapting to modern lifestyle. She also spoke about etiquettesinpubliclife.

Mr Sathish Maben spoke about various Government schemes available for Women to initiate businessenterprises.Heassuredhis totalsupporttoavailtheseschemes so that women gain economic empowerment.SrAnnaMaria BS in her presidential address encouraged the women to gain all levels of empowerment besides Economic Empowerment. She appreciated the women for participating in the celebration and actively involving themselves in various activities. Women performeddanceandsongsaspart

of cultural activity. There were around 100 Women from 11 self help groups, tailoring students and MSW students from Srinivas MSW College, Mangalore who participated in the programme. Sr Herita Mathias BS conducted sport games. The winners were awarded ontheoccasion.

Mrs Bharathi and Ms Vinutha the staff of Jeevandhara Centre presented the report of the yearly activities.SrIdaJanetwelcomedthe day’s gathering. Mrs Bharathi proposedvoteofthankstoallthose who were present for the programme. Ms Vinutha compeeredtheday’sprogramme.It was winded at 1.30pm. The meals wereservedontheoccasion.

Reportby;

SrAnnaMaria BS

Jeevandhara,Kulshekar

9008911135

SACholdsBlissBagProject

On the auspicious occasion of International Women's Day, St Aloysius College (Autonomous) organised the Bliss Bag Initiative, a bag donation drive for women in need, which was held in collaboration with MOMs of Mangalore and Cars Collective in Mangalore City. The event was a huge success, as over60 bags were collected from the member MOMS and distributed to unorganised

sector women and others in and aroundthecity.

Witnessingthesmilesontheirfaces was an indescribable feeling, and the students of the MSW Department who distributed the items to these special people in different parts of Mangalore were able to experience the joy of giving first-hand. As they say, "there is so much joy in giving," and the students truly felt this as they saw theimpacttheireffortshadonthe

lives of those, they were able to help.

It was heartening to see the community come together to support this initiative and contribute towards a better future for women in need. Through this collaborativeeffort,wewereableto make a positive impact on the lives

of those who needed it most and the sense of satisfaction and fulfilment derived from it was immeasurable.Overall,theBlissBag initiativeservedasareminderofthe importance of giving back to our communities and helping those in need, particularly on a day that celebrates the achievements and struggles of women around the world.

Event was coordinated by Dr Nayana Krishnapura, Ms Agnes Fernandes Dsouza from MOMS of Mangalore and Dr Vidya Vinutha Dsouza from St Aloysius College (Autonomous),Mangalore.

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38th BATCH OF BHMS COURSE INAUGURATION

38th batch of BHMS course of Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College, Deralakatte was inaugurated on 10.03.2023 in the College Auditorium. The programme commenced by invoking the blessings of the almighty.

Dr Vilma Meera D’Souza, Vice Principal, Father Muller

Homoeopathic Medical College, welcomed the gathering and introduced the Chief guest Dr Winston Vargheese V, Prof and HOD of Materia Medica, PG Coordinator, Sarada Krishna Homoeopathic Medical College, Kanyakumari.

Dr Winston Vargheese V inaugurated the course by lighting the lamp along with Rev.Fr Richard

Coelho, Director, FMCI, Rev.Fr Roshan Crasta, Administrator,

FMHMC&H , Dr Vilma Meera

Dsouza, Vice Principal, FMHMC, Dr Girish Navada, Medical Superintendent, Dr Jacintha Monteiro, UG Academic In-charge and student representatives from the batch Mr Ayushman ChapagayinandSrSuguna.

Chiefguestinhisinauguraladdress mentioned the freshers are fortunate to have chosen the most noble medical profession which is aimedatalleviatingthesuffering of humans. Homoeopathy is a holistic system of medicine which is safe, reliable,efficient,andcosteffective. He congratulated the students for choosing Father Muller Homeopathic Medical College whichhasthesignificanthistoryand legacy of being associated with Fr Augustus Muller, Dr Samuel Hahnemann, and other stalwarts of

Homoeopathy, He expressed his gratitudetothecollegeforinspiring himtowardspersonalgrowthwhich has enabled him to soar towards greater heights in his professional career.

Administrator Rev Fr Roshan Crasta in his message congratulated the fresher’s and welcomed them. Emphasized they have chosen the right college which is a pioneer institute in the field of Homoeopathic quality education andresearch.Urgedthestudentsto be in pace with the ever-changing modern world, be updated with knowledge,acquireskills,andchase their dream in achieving quality education, clinical experience, personality development to be efficient and competent Homoeopaths.

RevFrRichardAloysiusCoelho,

Director FMCI presided over the function and presented a memento to the chief guest as a token of gratitude and appreciation. In his presidential address he welcomed the freshers to Fr Muller family. Urged the freshers to remain focused, self-disciplined and be responsible to be successful Homoeopaths. He encouraged the students to utilize the benefits offeredbytheinstitutionintermsof

bythecollege.

Dr Jacintha Monteiro, U.G. Academic Incharge proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded by self introduction by the fresher’s, followed by the InstitutionAnthem.

Dr Anusha G Sanil compered the programme.

Are there any signs that Russia intends to delay NATO's admitting FinlandandSwedenby preparing for a military attackagainst FinlandandSweden?

Russian forces are leaving the Russian base of Alakurtti, near the Finnish border, to redeploy in Ukraine.

Originally Answered:Are there any signs that Russia intends to delay NATO's admitting Finland and Sweden by preparing for a military attackagainstFinlandandSwedish?

As Panu Höglund, Mats Anderson, and others have already reported

It answers the immediate question that Russia has no designs on Finland and proves that they are struggling to keep live soldiers in Ukraine.Russiawouldn’tpullpeople away from border garrisons if they didn’treallyneed them.

Russia has no say in what national decisions Finland makes.

Finlandization is over. Sorry to tell youthat, Russia (actually, I’m not

sorry).

WhenFinlandbeatRussiainSochi. Sorryaboutthat…notsorry,actually. But alternatively, theoretically, Russia could have spoiled Finland’s induction in NATO by invading Finland,sincenoonecanjoinNATO if they have an ongoing border dispute. Even this would have been a bad move for Russia. Finland has defense agreements with Sweden, andanewonewiththeUK.America

has also pledged to help Finland if theneedarises.Finlandalonewould have been a much tougher fight than Ukraine. With the UK and US jumping in too, Russia would have lostKareliawithindays.

So,thenotionofRussiaintendingto delay Finland joining NATO, is absolutely dead-on arrival. Even if 30% of Russia’s active ground troops weren’t already shattered, it wouldhavebeenabadidea.

(CourteseyofQuor.com)