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

CelebratingVEEZ Konkani300thIssue

- By:Ivan Saldanha-Shet.

Kudos to VEEZ Weekly and Editor

Publisher Dr. Austin Prabhu of Chicago US, its many contributors, and thousands of enthusiastic online readers around the Globe! On the occasion of the coming out of the 300th issue marking nearly 6 years of uninterrupted publication. It must be proudly said that whatever the situation dear Dr.Austin Prabhu has faced as sole Editor and Publisher, he has never failed to deliver the weekly, week after week to admiring readers;

VEEZ Illustrated Electronic Magazine, a state-of-the-art publicationofmorethan120pages regularly, is perhaps the only Konkani publication of its kind . Such a feat is possible only by a great devotee, lover and committed literature guru like

'Austin Baab', as he is known. VEEZ Konakni, was first published in four scripts - ie: Kannada, Romi, Dev Nagari and Malayalam . His personal history as an unsurpassed youth leader of Mangalore, Industrious Konkani writer, dramatist, actor, singer, director publisher all in one for nearly 60 years and who continued his close activities for Konkani even after taking the Citizenship of the US is unparalleled. His association and contribution to several social actions are a long list, in the forefront is his activity for "Lions International '' and remember he has a street named after him in Chicago the town of his residence in USA - imagine the honour and caliberhe hasamassed asa person of Indian origin and as the proud sonofKonkanisoil.

Hisforthcominggrandstandisto

be elected as the first India-born International Director from the State of Illinois, the Mother District of Lionism, and it is seen that his prospects are very bright, and all wish him well. It was recently published that Lion Dr. Ausltin Prabhu from Illinois, Chicagoland, won the candidacy being endorsed during May 2023, the Lions of Illinois, Multiple District 1 State Convention which was held at the Abraham Lincoln DoubleTree Hotel HiltoninSpringfield.

There were Lions and Guests from the 10 districts of Multiple District 1. (Mother District of Lionism). A total of 189 delegates from 10 districts of MD1 took part in the election. Dr. Austin from District 1A received 109 votes and his opponent Darren Vanduyn from District 1D received 72 votes. 8 votes were destroyed. The next step will be an endorsement from Lions International at the International Convention in Melbourne, Australia in July 2024. In his acceptance speech, Lion Dr. Austin Prabhu thanked all the delegates and also his club The Forest Kala Sampath Lions Club

members for their unconditional support. When elected, Dr. Austin will be the first India-born International Director from the State of Illinois, the Mother District of Lionism. Dr.nAustin Prabhu is cheered from all corners of the globenow."

ARareHistoryofKudla:

Inthis300thissueofVEEZKonkani; it is fitting to recognise and celebrate its "Unity in Diversity" , and to underline that great aspect ofVEEZKonkani,afterthousandsof diverse articles and analysis have enthralled the readers; I would like to highlight, amidst the assortment of attractive information in this exclusive issue,a lesser-known history of our co-minority community of Mangalore. Similar information may have been noted by a few here, but there are always those who thirst to know the littleknownhistoryandgeographytoofor it is part and parcel of our Konkani Christian roots, very ancient.

Mangaluru, Kudla, Kodial, Maikala, Mangalapuram, this place of many

names, no doubt is a place steeped in multifaceted ancient history. Temples, Churches, Mosques and more exist which hold history and culture often unknown. Mangalore thrives on worship of the GODs, no doubt! At every nook and corner historic Temples,Mosques,Churchescanbe found. The history of Mangalore connects with different regions, languages, faiths, and religions ancient, multi faceted and overlapping. Taking a look at an ancient Mosque - probably the oldest in the region - in Bunderthe heart root of old Kudla/Mangaluru is indeed very enrichingandthrilling.

The original roots of real old Mangalore run between Sharavu

GanapathiTempleinKodialbailand

Mangaladevi Temple in Bolar. The famed Muslim Ruler of the Mysore TipuSultan is knownto have a role in the development of Sharavu

Ganapathi Temple, according to a well-known historian A M Prabhu, who has authored books on Tipu history - a strange dream while he camped nearby caused him to donate land for the Temple. Tuluva

and local rulers are known to have protected Muslim/Arab traders in ancient times and have given them free passage through their kingdoms, much before westerners were heard of in this area. Western rulers too established close trade and cultural ties with Muslim kingdomsandhaveprovidedspace for their lifestyle. It is evident that there has been much intercourse between cultures and beliefs for ages, creating a mosaic that is inseparable in and around Mangalore and beyond. A deeper look at the oldest Masjids of Mangalore and connected historic auxiliaries will enlighten the intricate mosaic, these are perhaps justasampleofmanymore.

ZEENATHBAKSHMASJID.BUNDER. Mangalore: Thishistoricmosque is referred to as "Juma Masjid" and

"Beliye Palli", it is right in the middle of ever bustling Bundar, the old port commerce locality sandwiched between Golikatte Road and Port Road, just stones throw from the Gurpur river and North wharf to its West. Here, a wide range of commodities and condiments were and are still traded. The area seems in chaos with old, dilapidated buildings amid newer ones and the narrow lanes choked with heavy traffic of all descriptions and gutters. Ones olfactory senses will be tested with multiple oriental aromas of spice, coffee, areca, pepper, cardamom, chilies, garlic, ginger, rice, pulses, onions, potatoes.............. and all kinds of condiments retail and wholesale. A trader 'M M Kini' opposite the mosque is a licensed dealer in arms and ammunition, it is an old family business he says. This unique and antique mosque is round the corner from the Bundar Police station and the famous old renovated 'Bombay Lucky Restaurant' well known to local folks. The 'Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)' is located a few yards opposite. Bunder, the old Port of Mangalore,

sinceancienttimesisthebackbone of history, communication, and commerce with thriving seaports and even the Lakshadweep Islands with which it shares a long history. The multi religious businesspeople aroundareofaveryfriendlyandof easy-going enthusiastic nature. A visit here is like going back in time and also tripping over the new orderoflifeandfaith.

The Masjid Zeeynath Baksh in Bunder is said to have been established in Mangalore in 644 A.D. FirstestablishedinMangalore by Habeeb bin Malik and the first Qadhi(Qazi) appointed was Hazarath Moosa Bin Malik, son of Malik Bin Abdullah. This Mosque was probably inaugurated on Friday the 22nd of the month of Jumadil Awwal (fifth month of the Islamic Calendar) in the year 22 of

Hijra (644 AD). That this sacred Masjid was established by the Holy menofArabia,whoweresaidtobe

Kith and Kin of "Sahabas" (Associates) of "Prophet Hazarath

Mohammad Rasulallah" is about 1400yearsold.

ofhiskin'stombscanbeseen.

The 'Zeenath Baksh Mosque' is indeed unique. The front portion (with a prayer hall on two levels) is no doubt added on in the 19th century (later too) and the tile roof has 'Basel Mission' Tiles too, another structure constructed later has four minarets and a typical dome and houses the 87-year-old tomb of Hazrath Sheikuna

Muhammed Moula Jalal Masthan

Al Bhukhari a saintly Khazi laid to rest here. Many young people come here to pray and find their lives changing towards good. Also, some

The inner ancient original mosque dates back by centuries perhaps andthisoldlegendofa"Masjid' in 1780's said to have been refurbished and renovated systematically by the great Tiger of Mysore Tipu Sultan who is well known for such philanthropy. Any one with a basic knowledge of layoutsintheregion can notfail to recognize that this great monument which spreads over a large area has many characteristics of a temple - the large water tank (below ground level), the shape of the tiled roof (old Malabar) , and the hand carved woodwork (characteristicallylocal).Tipuadded beautifully carved bulky rosewood pillarsandalsoacarvedceiling,the huge carved works are majestic. The mosque was renamed after Tipu'sdaughter'ZeenatBaksh'.The prayer hall is on a plinth with an open colonnade running around the building under heavy overhanging eaves with carvings.

Therenovationcoexistsinharmony with the older, more ancient staccato structure. The water tank in the center of the premises has

granite steps and provides water for the ablutions or 'Wuzu' prescribed before 'namaz'. This Juma Masjid is well frequented by devotees for regular five times Namaz and to visit the tombs. There is also a burial ground that partly encircles the Mosque. One can see men and women frequenting this holy place, on festival occasions this mosque can hold about 2000 people for the Namaz or prayer assembly. During Ramadan fasting and festivals the religious spirit is at a peak and exemplary. Tippu Sultan has also built a Masjid at Mangalore 2 .k.m away from this Mosque, it is presently called as "Idgah Masjid" at the top of the hill (now called LightHouseHill,inthetowncenter near Aloysius College). Muslims from all over the district gather here and offer prayers on festive days of Eid-Ul-Fitr and so on. Subsequently in 1920, Mangalore 'bail' family constructed a large assembly hall or 'Jamath Khana'. There are a good number of Muslims in Mangalore and their concentration in this area is phenomenal. "He is the One GOD: the Creator, the Initiator, the

Designer. To Him belong the most beautiful names. Glorifying Him is everything in the heavens and the earth. He is the Almighty, Most Wise."(Quran,59:24)

KUTCHIMEMONMASJID.BUNDER. Mangalore : This is another ancient Masjid justnearandonthewayto Zeenath Buksh Masjid right

opposite to famed 'Bombay Lucky Restaurant'; the 'Kanara Chamber ofCommerceandIndustry(KCCI)is in the backyard of this Masjid. It is also referred to as 'Katchi Palli'. It is a wonder that this Mosque is credited with many firsts. Traditionally each of these many Masjids in Mangalore have their own section of regular devotees. Reliable sources say that Kutchi Memon Masjid was basically constructedin1839andisnow174 yearsoldgoingontobe175years.

The force behind this sacred work were Patels from Kutch in North Gujarat, traders who settled in the area and were masters in the spice trade, they spoke Kutchi language andgraduallywereassimilatedinto theKanaraculture,thecauseofthis development are the historical sea routes to Mangalore from the Arabian Sea. To and fro activity is stillveryvisibleitappears.

1930s , the first to use loudspeakers for the 'azaan', call to pray and in Urdu, the first where the 'qutba' (Friday Sermon) was deliveredinUrduandsoon.

Therehasbeendevelopmentinthe precincts of the masjid but the original structure on about 20-25 centsremainsstillveryoriginal.The new extension was first made in

Thewondersatthisreligiouscenter are : It was the first to get power supplyandthefourthinMangalore tobeelectrifiedintheBritishera,in

1983 and plans to expand are ongoing. The unique gate way into the masjid has a picturesque oriental architecture. Indeed, this areacalledBunderisawonderwith many historic monuments still standing the test of time like sentinels spelling out the historical times gone by and hoping for better

timesforthosewhoaretocome. WomanSaint'sDargahintheHeart

of M'lore : Hazrath Saidani Bibi Sahiba, the only dargah dedicated to a woman saint in Dakshina Kannada has become a refuge of hope without reference to religion, caste, creed, or language. Located near A B Shetty circle, on the periphery of the prominent 'Big Maidan' (as it was then known) now, Nehru Maidan of Mangalore. This dargah (memorial tomb shrine) is visited by people of all faiths.

though burial grounds were available, such was her reputation. People say that she was buried in the military area due to high respectandregardthelocalpeople of Mangalore particularly the warrior class had for her. Later, her close relatives were buried beside her. Now are seen three other tombs apart from that of Sayyadani Bibi in the dargah. Scores of people of all castes and creeds visit this place every day, giving alms to the poor that sit at thisplace,anacceptedpractice.

Mostofthepeoplecomeherewith a'harake'(vow)asthereisastrong belief that prayers are answered here.HazrathSaidaniBibi,itissaid, was a saintly lady, hailing from a 'Fouji' (Military) family during the regime of Tipu Sultan. She was buried in the military area (the present location of dargah on the edge of the City Police HQformerly the military barracks),

Another astonishing aspect of this dargah is that it is cared for and protected by retired or serving police officers of Mangalore.

Hazrath Saidani Bibi Sahiba Dargah

Management Committee is in the forefront of its maintenance. This dargah was frequently visited by

the police staff and public, the tomb is adjacent to the police headquarters. In 1972, the then Dakshina Kannada SP K U Balakrishna Rau and the then Assistant SP H T Sangliana entrusted the administration of the dargahtoMuslimpolicepersonnel.

A committee was formed for the betteradministrationof the dargah and in the year 1983 the old 'Mazahar' (tomb of the saint) was renovated.Thedargahwasbuilton land belonging to the Police department, and the property was later handed over to the Wakf Board.Indeed, goodnessknowsno boundariesandsodoesharmony.

traders, from the Malabar coastal belt,dealingwiththetradersofthe Arab lands over the Arabian Sea. Arab merchants have been visiting the coastal regions for business purposes even before the time of Muhammad (puh), the prophet of Islam. Most local Muslims in this region are part of the Beary Community.

BEARY COMMUNITY IN

MANGALORE: The origin of the 'Beary' Community is very ancient and little trace is found. History reveals that there were many rich

TheBeary(alsoknownasByari)isa community concentrated mostly along coastal Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in the Southern state of Karnataka. It is an ethnic group, having its own unique traditions and distinct cultural identity and language. The Beary community holds an important place among the other coastal Muslim communities, like Nawayaths of the Uttara Kannada district (who speak a type of Konkani), Mappilas (Moplahs) of theMalabar coast (who speak a form of Malayalam) and Labbay of the Coromandel coast (who converse in Tamil). Note that Bearys incorporate the local Tulu culture of undivided South Kanara and diverse traditions of the MoplahsoftheMalabar. TheBeary

community of Kanara or Tulunadu is one among the earliest Muslim inhabitants of the coast, with a clear history of more than 1350 years. Muslim Arab traders had a cordial relationship with the rulers ofthewestern coastalbeltof India. This is attested to also by the writing of Ibn Batuta, the intrepid North African traveller who passed throughIndiain1342.

The word 'Beary' is said to be derived from the Tulu word 'Byara', which means trade or business.

businessmen consisting of 90,345 Bearys and 2,104 Nawayaths involved in business activities. The first Muslim missionaries to Mangalore can be traced to Malik Bin Deenar, an Arab trader said to be the kin of Sahabas (companions of Prophet Muhammad). He is said tohave visited Malabar andlanded near Manjeshwar on the northern Malabar coast, very close to Mangalore.Heconstructedthefirst MasjidinKasargod,theMalikDinar Masjid ( his shrine can still be seen ).

Since the major portion of the community was involved in business activities, particularly trading, the local Tulu speaking majoritycalledthemBearyorByari, other reasons exist. According to thecensusof1891,SouthKanarain the Madras Presidency of British India had 92,449 Muslim

Beary Language: Called 'Beary Basse' is spoken by the Muslim communities mainly along the Coastal Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and in some parts of Kasaragod districtbytheBearys(Byaris).Beary is a language of mixed idioms, phonology, and grammar of bothe Tulu and Malayalam. It is consideredadialectsince Kannada alphabetsareusedinwritingandis also known as 'Mappila Bashe' because of Bearys' close contact with Mappilas of Malabar. Due to the intensive influence of Tulu for centuries, it is today considered as a language close to Tulu as well.

Surrounded by the Tulu speaking community, the impact of Tulu on the phonological, morphological, and syntactical structure of the dialect is evident. Beary Bashe can be related to Malayalam, Tulu, or Perso-Arabic origin with Arabic influence. 'Beary Basse' also has words related to Tamil and Malayalam. Tamil and Malayalam

Speakers can understand Beary to someextent.

The Bearys produced rich literary work using both Beary Bashe and Kannada language. The literature comprises Beary poetry, research articles on Bearys, historical analysis of Muslims, essays, stories, and other fields of literature. "English-Kannada-Beary" dictionary is now available. The Bearys have also produced a number of magazines and periodicals from Mangalore and other places of the region. Some periodicals have becomepopularandafewofthem have become a part of Beary history. Generally, Kannada script is used to produce Beary literature which is quite popular and abundantinallpossibleforms.

Present Activity of The Masjid :

Considering the needs of the economically weaker people of the community, the Management Committee of the Mosque has made initiatives to extend free service in various ways for the needy people of the community. Funds are raised from benevolent donors of the community for the purpose of marriages, education, medical relief, shelter, and other social basics. Also, the Management Committee of this Mosque looks after burial of destitutes free of cost. Efforts are on by theleaders forestablishing

and running schools and colleges from KG to PG for the benefit of the wider community who are rapidly marching forward in all spheresofactivity.

The current perception of Islam and the followers of religion and culture in Kanara and the Coastal areas , in the light of new developments and issues that rule, calls for a closer look at the history and practice of Islam in this region. Muslims groups are generally labelled as " Minority" and weak but it must be clearly understood that the population is significantly strong,andtheirpresenceherecan be traced back to 7th century AD, while Christianity is from 16th Century practically, though it is credibly said that Christianity landed in Kerala in the first century (53AD), even before it reached Europe. In this backdrop the grip thatIslamhassecured,androotsof Islam are indeed deep. There are many facets that Muslims have dominated here for centuries and still do. Their sway is very significant and ancient and needs

serious consideration of the rights andvaluesguaranteedby tradition andtheIndianconstitution.Islamis nowanindeliblepartofthisregion, India,andworldover. Theycannot be labelled as aliens and are part and parcel of the mainstream. The Muslim community here, in view of allaspects, isastrong,rooted,and recognizedcommunityhere. Itcan be observed that the Muslim community's progressive principles here are indeed very forward and their outlook is advancing, influenced by the middle east and western standards and good education and industry. Many prominent properties and businesses are owned by them. Families are largely active, elders in the families are secured and cared for and women seek good education, and the entire community is enterprising, hard working, cooperative and presents a happier picture generally. Religion-wise, they are fervent and keep the tenets strong even in the face of hurdles, the world over it is seen, they are going from strength tostrength.

The Challenge to Live Fr.Stan’sLegacyToday!

by

TimesarebadinIndia:Manipurhas been burning for two months now. Millions of citizens all over are denied their fundamental rights. Corruption and crony capitalism are rampant. Opposition politicians can be bought up and blackmailed

the ruling regime. The megaproject profiteers and the mafia who plunder our precious natural resources destroy the lives and

-*FrCedric PrakashSJ

livelihood of the poor and marginalised besides wreaking havoc on our fragile ecosystems. There is a serious lack of political will to address systemic issues; besides hurried legislation and prejudiced policies are designed to favour the powerful and other vested interests. Economically, India is in the doldrums; xenophobia and exclusivism are on the rise; discrimination, divisiveness, hate, and violence are mainstreamed. Democratic space continues to shrink, and Constitutional values are blatantly violated; be it freedom of speech and expression, the freedom of religion and belief, the right to life and livelihood, the right to privacy or to marry the person of one’ s choice the rights of the citizens are being systematically curtailed! At the receiving end of an unjust, inhuman, and vindictive regime are the Adivasis, Dalits, minorities, women and children, the migrant workers and the displaced, the small farmers and the casual labourers, the poor and the unemployed, the vulnerable and the excluded, human rights defendersandacademicsand

others!

Given the grim realities which throttle the nation today, one person whose physical presence is greatly missed today is that of Jesuit Father Stan Swamy. Two years ago

on 5 July 2021, he said ‘good-bye’ to us, having completed his pilgrimage here on earth. He was arrested on 8 October 2020 on fabricated charges, incarcerated in the Taloja jail where he suffered very much. His terrible and untimely death is regarded by many as ‘institutional murder’. He has still not been declared ‘innocent’ by the courts. However, Stan (as he was called by all very lovingly) the man, mission, and message-livesonintheheartsand lives of thousands everywhere. He has left us with a rich legacy and challenges us to live that legacy today.

Inhisearlydays,Stanwasatrainer, mentor, guide – inspiring hundreds ofyouthsandothersthroughsocial awareness programmes and to critically analyse what was happening in society; there are many today from across the board, who are andwill always be grateful for the profound impact he left on their lives. For Stan, his heroes and motivators were the likes of Paolo Freire, Dom Helder Camara and Fr Pedro Arrupe. Vatican II and the faith -justice mandate which emerged from the 32nd General CongregationoftheJesuits,greatly shaped Stan’ s way of proceeding: his thinking and his actions. Like Jesus his Master, he questioned and taught others to question and challenge all that is wrong and unjust in society and to respond constructively and positively to theseissues.

Stan did all he could to empower the Adivasis. He accompanied and struggled alongside with them on issues related to the violation of laws in acquiring land for mega projects for mining and infrastructural development which flouttherightsofthedowntrodden

and tribals. He consistently raised his voice in democratic, legitimate ways against the state-sponsored violations of laws and assault on democratic rights of people aimed at paving way for unrestricted exploitation of land and natural resources. He questioned the nonimplementation of the 5th Schedule of the Constitution why the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act [PESA], was being ignored. He strongly expressed his disappointment at the silence of the Government on the 1997 Samatha Judgment of the Supreme Court; he was visible and vocal at the half-hearted action of the Government on Forest Rights Act, 2006. He expressed his apprehensions at the Amendment to ‘Land Acquisition Act 2013’ by the Jharkhand government which was a death-knell for the Adivasi Community. He strongly disagreed with the setting up of ‘Land Banks’ which he saw as a calculated plot to annihilate the Adivasis. He challengedtheindiscriminatearrest of three thousand young Adivasis under the label of ‘naxals’ just because they questioned and resisted unjust land-alienation and

displacement. And much, much more!

Stan walked the talk; he should be a motivating factor today for all to get out of our comfort zones, institutionalised lifestyles, and cosmetic band-aid approaches to the grim realities which our people face today! Stan is physically no more but the other BhimaKoregoan 15 (all human rights defenders) who have been vocal and visible in standing up for the rights of the poor, are still languishing in jail, some for five yearsnow(thoughthreeareouton bail). Hehashowever,leftbehinda rich legacy which challenges us today; this legacy can be spelt out in five inter-related dimensions: Presence,Partnership,Participation, PropheticandPilgrim

Presence:

The essential thing that St Ignatius of Loyola teaches one in the Spiritual Exercises is to be in the presence of God. A presence which undoubtedly helps leads one towards a meaningful physical presence among the people of God.Godandhispeoplewere ever

present in Stan’s life. Stan was always during his people; he pitched his tent among them: he sanganddancedwiththem;he ate their meals and walked the miles with them. He lived for them, and he died for them. Like a good shepherd he smelled of the sheep. His presence among the people was perhaps to a fault. He gave without counting the cost; he was neverensconcedinacomfortzone. His life was totally people centred. Till the very end he begged the Presiding judge to give him bail to go back to be with his people; he never lost focus of this fundamental.

Participation: For meaningful communion and effective mission, one must participate in the sufferings and sorrows, the struggles and anxieties, the cries, and yearnings of those who are denied their legitimate place in society. Stan was an authentic participant in the lives of the people. He was visible; he spoke loudly and strongly; he was articulate, he studied and analysed society and the plight of the poor; he wrote and gave

interviews (his letters and poems from jail are a testimony to this). He stood with the Adivasis against the powerful and other vested interests who robbed them their ‘ jal , jungle aur jameen’. He internalised and actualised the words of Pope Francis in ‘Evangelii Gaudium, “IpreferaChurchwhich is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets,ratherthanaChurchwhich isunhealthyfrombeingconfined and from clinging to its own security.Idonotwanta Church concernedwithbeingatthecentre and which then ends by being caughtupinawebofobsessions andprocedures”. This was Stan’ s mantra too and he had no hesitationinsharingitwithothers.

Partnership:

Given the enormity and the complexity of the issues which challenge us, one cannot work alone or in our institutionalised silos. One needs to work with all women and men of goodwill for the establishment of a more just, equitable, free, fraternal, and dignified society. Stan realised this throughout and for him his

partners were the Adivasis and the Dalits, human rights defenders, lawyers and academics, animists, agnostics, and atheists, from every gender and everyone else who would help realise the goals of the Constitution of India. He believed incollaborationandnetworking,an essential which the Society reaffirmed in the 35th General Congregation; “We must in turn looktoourcollaboratorsinmission and say, with gratitude and affection, that the call we have received is a call shared by us together”.(D.6 #3) Yes, many of us welcome them into our institutions (we must continue to do so) but arewereadytojointhem–intheir programmes, in their initiatives? Whomdoweidentifywith?were Stan’s perennial questions! He journeyed with others in the relentless struggle for a more just andhumanesociety.

Prophetic:

A prophet whilst announcing the good news,must denounce all that iswrong, unjust, andevilinsociety. One needs to take a stand; to be visible and vocal. Stan, as true disciple of Jesus, truly feared no

one! Because of this, he did have many enemies; those who felt that he was a thorn in their flesh. He minced no words when he challenged his own to stop overinstitutionalisation, to stop catering to the privileged and elite sections of society (who have plenty of other possibilities and opportunities)andaboveall,toget out of the safety and security of one ’s comfort zone! Stan was a prophet of and for our times. He radiated an unparalleled prophetic courage and ultimately, he had to paythepriceforit!

Pilgrim:

Like St. Ignatius, Stan was a pilgrim in the true sense of the word. He believed in movements: people on the move, just like in the Biblical ‘Exodus’: the struggles of the ‘peopleofGod’ foramorehumane and Ignatius, Stan dignified life. Stan left no stone unturned to ensure the Kingdom of God on earth where all (particularly the sub-alterns)wouldbetogetherand around a table of fellowship. Like a true pilgrim he lived a frugal life. It was a sad joke when they raided hisroom,besideshiscomputer,the

only’possesions’ the authorities were able to seize from him, would putapaupertoshame!Apilgrimis unencumbered with baggage and that’s what Stan was. Even today, his room, with the barest necessities, bears mute witness to the life of a man on the move – a realpilgrim.

A little before his arrest in October 2020, Stan in a very powerful message said, “Whatishappening tomeisnotsomethinguniquehappening to me alone. It is a broaderprocessthatistakingplace all over the country. We are all awarehowprominentintellectuals, lawyers’ writers, poets, activists, students,leaders,theyareallput into jail because they have expressed their dissent or raised questionsabouttherulingpowers ofIndia.Wearepartoftheprocess. InawayIamhappytobepartof this process. I am not a silent spectator, butpartofthegame, and ready to pay the price whateverbeit” .

Today,Stanchallengesusalltolive the legacy he has left us, in a profound way by our presence among the people, by our

participation in their struggles and joys, by partnering through a shared vision and mission with other women and men of good will, by having the courage to play a prophetic role and above all, to be a pilgrim. From Taloja Jail he wrote, “Myneedsarelimited.the AdivasisandtheSocietyofJesus, havetaughtmetoleadasimple life…Listeningtothelifenarratives ofthepoorprisonersismyjoyin TalojaJail…IseeGodintheirpains and smiles… Many of suchpoor undertrials don’t know what chargeshavebeenputonthem, have not seen their chargesheet andjustremainforyearswithout anylegalorotherassistance.The

16co-accusedhavenotbeenable to meet each other as we are lodgedindifferentjailsordifferent ‘circles’ with the same jail”; he concludes, “butwewillstillsingin chorus.Acagedbirdcanstillsing.”

Do we have the courage to walk in Stan’s footsteps and sing the wayhe did, today?

--------------------------------------

4 July 2023

Fr Cedric Prakash SJ (Gujarat) is a human rights, reconciliation, and peaceactivist/writer.

Contact:cedricprakash@gmail.com ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Health Camp Impacts FreeinInstitutions. ed

By :IJ S Shet.

Scanning the various levels of the vast media electronic and print, we come across notices/advertisementsfor''Health Camps" by a wide range of health care, destitute and commercial institutions, hospital organised inhouse camps are excluded. The input and outcome of these attractive looking exercises have a

wide-ranging impact and results, which needs attention. The benefits are possibly dependent on the sincerity and transparency of those who leadandorganise them. All actions have a positive and negative - but it is a common explainable experience that the negative fall-out can be unseen and serious sometimes. Very often the results and out-comes are not communicated, followed up and the negligent attitude can cause damage which can be major and hazardous; particularly in Elder's and Destitute Institutions as the classification and control is poor and the not so aware helpless patients have little or no means and options. Where it is conducted and monitored by medical and trained personnel it can be expected to be better exercise, provided care is the watch word, and rarely it is. Where

business/commercial establishments arrange it without thepresenceof Doctorsitmayend without suitable follow-up and cause undesirable results for the poor people/victims involved. It is therefore advisable to be cautious and examine the pros and cons of the particular scenarios under which the facilities are offered. In such cases no care is too muchbecause apart from physical consequences the mental trauma and emotional quotient can face serious unseen impacts........ Be aware!

products they promote, giving the managements of the institution freebees and incentives to fall in line, is not unusual. But the vital and very sensitive part of this exercise is how those in-charge of the institutions make use of, follow-up and guide the in-mates that have taken the tests at the medical camp. Especially among aged and sick people who are awareoftheirproblemsitcanhave a far-reaching impact and result.

Checks and tests are done with great enthusiasm and fanfare in smaller private institutions quite frequently, not generally seen as negligent. BP, Blood Sugar (Diabetes), Hemoglobin (Hg), and basically Height, weight, BMI, Doctor consultation and Dental screening and at times others as possible, often depending only on small portable/handheld meters/gadgets. Generally commercial lobbies do it to gain popularity for themselves and the

Very often the personnel conductingthetestsarevolunteers, untrained, unsupervised and the rushtodotheexerciseinthegiven time frame can be a pressure to cause faulty results. Often the meters to read the results are old, out-dated, faulty, and not used correctly. All this will in small and large ways seriously impact the final result and well being of the sick,ifnotfollowedupsuitably. In a well-placed hospital, regular comprehensive diagnostic packages are available during hospitalworkinghourswhichcould provide a very realistic health picture of an individual; the basic

range of tests are - CBC, • HBA1C

•Lipid profile •Kidney function test

•Liver function test •Urine routine

•ECG •Thyroid Profile •General physician doctor consultation

•Dental screening • Health talk by doctor.

participants to unnecessarily self medications and stress. In a public scenario it will be advisable to always consult a family Doctor, before any action is taken to treat.

Health/Medical Camp Scenarios:

**Authority running old age institutionsandorphanages,havea statutory responsibility/answerability and duty to provide good follow-up, advice/counselling and where needed suitable treatments a part service can prove dangerous . Moral obligations as per laws in place are never to be ignored by medical personnel and authorities running institutions and tertiary medical care.

** A planned, well organised camp will have Medical and trained personnel to handle matters adequately. Simple people in normal health will turn up casually as the 'FREE' label attracts.

Understandably those conducting the facilities will root for the products/gadgets they want to sell andbendbackwardstooblige.This can trap the unknowing

** Health camps are of real use to ordinary people, especially those who do not have access to regular medical care normally. They have a responsibility to themselves and their folks to check and take care about what is offered and suggested at the camps to avoid dangers. Camps rarely serve the purposes of those who have regular medical care and

monitoring and/or attend a hospital/clinic. For those who can afford it is a good idea to have annual check-ups by a recognised regular hospital. \

** Free/Subsidised health camps/checks of economically weaker persons and aged in institutions supporting such population have to strictly follow guidelines for such. A negligent attitude will amount to a misdemeanor and liabilities will arise. It must be clear to those running such health camps and all hazardous behavior must be curtailed.

of Urban Medical Clinics, Namma Clinics and on-line medical care and a choice of doctors and paramedical facilities, a casual improperly planned and without proper skilled personnel and equipmentforhealthcampinsmall institutions is superfluous and best avoided. The main objective of a medical camp is to provide initial care to people in illness, which reflect the unique strengths and goals of medical ethics.

**A vital objective is what are the takeaways that are gained by such medical camps. How effective and useful are the follow-up activities or is it ignored and forgotten? There are a wide variety and combinationsofmedicaldisciplines that can be involved in Medical camps..... Currently in places like Mangalore etc....where very good super speciality hospitals and multiple medical colleges exist in a small area and with the availability

A Practical case Scenario: A senior citizen narrated his experience at a support group meeting : I am fairly an aware person though I am 77 years old with usual health issues related to age, I have for more than a decade lived in a home for the aged, paying reasonable fees as demanded. The responsible management of the homes apart from food, accomodation pay no attention to my health-related needs and care, the regulations here are not clear. There have been sporadic medical camps here, but I rarely could attend for one

reason or another. On June 24, 2023, came to know that a medical camp was being conducted and wanted to check on my blood sugar and went to the hall where it was conducted. Two males, not doctors apparently, were conducting the tests under the guidance of the head of the home and others present. I was one of the last of the residents to be attended. My

weight, BP, Random Blood Sugar, and Hemoglobin were checked......while others looked normal I noted that Hemoglobin wasbeingnoteddowninabookas 5.7.......confused I said it seems low and they said yes, nothing more. Later in the afternoon I was speaking to a friend who said 5.7 waswaytoolowandIbettercheck at a lab and see a doctor. On Monday June 26, 2023, I went to a nearby hospital lab and had my Hemoglobin test done (paying

Rs.100/=) .... The reading came in 30 minutes, and it was 14.2. I messaged the head of my old age home to give me the readings recorded at the health camp on WhatsApp, to check with my doctor,after a time anda reminder I got the same , in it I was advised that the meter with which Hemoglobin was checked is defective and 5 points should be added and take that the reading was 10.7, this too was not realistic and confusing, also no guidance or advicewasgivenonthe5.7reading tomebytheinstitutionconducting the tests, post the camp. After I was told that my reading was 5.7, I went through worry and mental trauma till the matter was settled bytheLabreportonJune26,2023. It is clear that unless medical camps and tests are correctly conducted, monitored and followed-up more damage than good can follow, no one should face such stress and faulty handling,sotakecare.

So, what can be gathered briefly

is, Health camps are short-term mobile medical interventions for a target community if well organised generally lasting for a day or more. It helps to be more responsive to the needs of the users and creates a path for better understanding and results. Multiple health workers from different professional backgrounds work together with patients, families, carers

(caregivers), and communities to deliver better results and level of satisfaction. Health camps are beneficial to the community and at the same time acceptable to them especiallyincarestarvedsituations. These camps significantly help in providing medical checks to the needy, aged, weak, and ill at their doorsteps to gainknow-how on an individual's health.

TOGETHER WITH YOU

Sonal Lobo

TostepasidewithyouIamlooking

Tostand besideyouIamwaiting. DowntheaisleIwanttowalkwithyou, Amidst people I want to propose my love to youandconfirmmybelongingnessforever.

Together withyouIwanttobeginanewlife

PresentandfutureIwanttospendwithyou.

Family of love and faith I wish to build with you,

The pits and falls of life only with you I wish to share.

Nosmiles shallfade

Notearswillstay

Only loveweshallalwaysshare, Andbuildheaveninour heartsalways.

Twenty One Grams

By- Molly M Pinto.

How proudly we strut in our body suites Working and feeding it day after day

To the will of the power that lives within Twenty One Grams is all we believe it is

Take a moment to ponder how ridiculous it all is Apparently there's nothing that can be achieved Without this little whiff of nothingness in me That holds the wisdom of ages but won't share

The answers to our confusion and wonderment

By: Molly M Pinto.

The great ones claim we must look within to find

How crazy is that to look for oneself within And realise you're nothing but Twenty One Grams of gas

Ph.D. awarded to Mr Hariprasad of SAC

has been awarded Ph.D. for his thesis “Cytokine Modulation of Brain Function in an Animal Model of Cancer: Analysis at Molecular and Neural Level” from Mangalore University.

He was successfully guided by Dr Monika Sadananda, Professor, Department of Biosciences, MangaloreUniversity. He is the proud son of Mr J Ravindranath Shetty and Mrs SumathiShetty,Kinnigoli. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hariprasad Shetty, Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, St Aloysius College (Autonomous),

https://issuu.com/austinprabhu -----------------------------------------------