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

English Weekly

Vol: 1 No: 30

July 21, 2022

Rank holder, Singer, Dramatist, Orator, Cricketer And a Brilliant Engineer-

John P. Mendonca & His Wife Hilda

Rank holder, Singer, Dramatist, Orator, Cricketer And a Brilliant Engineer-

John P. Mendonca & His Wife Hilda

Er. John P. Mendonca, a resident of Shankerpura – Pangla Parish in Udupi District is a familiar personality not only in Pangla but also elsewhere. He obtained state level 7th Rank in SSLC in 1963, 2nd Rank in BE (Metallurgy) from the

then KREC (now NITK) Surathkal. His has a number of talents – he is a singer, dramatist, orator, cricketer and an agriculturist. When I was a small boy he was a ‘Hero’ of Pangla.

This July 21 he completes 75 years of his life. This is a tribute to this

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multifaceted personality on this occasion.

Fr. Basil Peres and Mendonca household of Pangla in the history of jasmine cultivation: Somewhat in 1936, the then parish priest of Pangla Church Fr. Basil Salavadore Peres (later he became the Bishop of Mangalore Diocese) arranged to bring jasmine saplings from Bhatkal to distribute to the families under his jurisdiction and enable them to earn some income for their livelihood. In this task the person who went to Bhatkal on foot which is about 100 kilometers from Pangla with his two friends was Sebastian Mendonca (Bostu Mendos) – the grandfather of John P. Mendonca. In the 1940s when jasmine market – ‘Mallige Katte’ (which is still existing) was started in

Shankerpura one of the first vendors was Pascal Mendonca – father of John P. Pascal was a jasmine merchant for decades till his death in 1988. Pascal’s two sisters (Aunts of John P.) – Sr. Cecilia and

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Sr. Natalia were the religious sisters of the Sisters of Charity, Provincialate at Belvedere, Angelore, Mangalore. Mendonca household had Gurkars of their ward ranging for 3 generations, namely Sebastian, Pascal and John.

John P. Mendonca – Birth and early education:

John was born in a middle class family of Pangla on July 21, 1947 just a few days ahead of the nation’s independence. His dad was Pascal Mendonca, a jasmine cultivator and merchant. Mother was Pauline

Castelino, a homemaker. They had a large farm of jasmine cultivation.

John has 2 elder sisters Eliza (82) and Juliana (80) both reside at Pangla parish limits. After the two daughters John’s parents lost their first 2 sons when they were small for some unknown children’s deceases prevailing in those years. John had a younger sister Jenevive (Jenny), a general nurse by profession.

Unfortunately she died in 1988 at the age of 33, due to an accident in Poona.

John finished his higher elementary level education (then 8th std) at St. John’s Higher Elementary School, Shankerpura. He was the topper in school from 3rd standard onwards.

7th Rank holder in SSLC (Class 10) for the state – became famous overnight:

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John did his high school studies at Shri Vishnumoorthy Hayavadana (SVH) High School, Innanje, near Shankerpura which was / is run by Sode Mutt Udupi, the school which is closer to his house. In the high school his talents came to lime light.

He played for the school cricket team as an opening batsman. The cricket team of his school took part in many tournaments in and around Udupi including the famous Christian High School, Udupi.

That was the year 1963. In the SSLC (10th Std) examination John secured 7th Rank in the state of Mysore (now Karnataka). At that time only 10 ranks were given. He stood first in the then South Canara district (now Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts). He was the topper in all 9 subjects in his school.

Because of these achievements he was popular overnight. Now also John exclaims - that was his greatest achievement. Because of this he received national merit scholarship for his entire college studies.

PUC and BE in Metallurgy: John studied for Pre-University

education at St Aloysius College Mangalore in the science stream by staying at the Sacred Heart Hostel of the College. The change from

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Shankerpura - a village to a bigger city of Mangalore had an effect on his studies. Because of watching a lot of movies and playing cricket now and then he didn’t do very well in PUC. But he managed to get an Engineering seat at the Karnataka Regional Engineering College (KREC, now NITK), Surathkal.

First one who introduced Wilfy’s songs to Pangla:

John opted for Metallurgical Engineering. In the third year BE he secured First Rank in Mysore University, Third Rank in Fourth year and Second rank in Final year. While studying at KREC he took part in many plays (dramas) both at the College (Tulu and Hindi) and in Pangla (Konkani and Tulu). He played in the cricket teams both at the college and at Shankerpura. He was the captain of the Shankerpura cricket team for about a decade.

During his captaincy at Shakerpura his team played with neighboring parish teams like Katapadi, Shirva, Pernal, Kallianpur and was almost unbeatable. They played for other general teams like Kapu, Uchila, Ambagilu and won most of them.

After completing his BE he taught at his college (KREC) as Assistant Lecturer for two years.

During his studies at KREC John picked up several songs of Wilfy Rebimbus and used to sing during dramas and other occasions at Pangla. He was the one who introduced Wilfy’s songs to Pangla Parish. He was a famous singer of Pangla in mid sixties to mid seventies.

From John to John P. and John Prakash:

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got admitted to his class. To avoid confusion of the same name of two, class teacher Annayya Shetty made our John Mendonca as John P. Mendonca. At that time nowhere that ‘P’ had been expanded until the completion of BE. Everywhere he was called as John P. Mendonca.

Even he received the BE Rank certificate under the same name.

In 1971 Government of India introduced National Scholarships for studies abroad. John wanted to try for the same and applied for the passport. But the Passport officials asked him expand the initial of his middle name ‘P’. Till first standard all was well with his name John Mendonca given at the Baptism. He got ‘P’ acronym added after the first name ‘John’ in the second standard when one more ‘John Mendonca’

But there was a legal hurdle with the initial ‘P’ for obtaining the passport.

To solve the problem John approached Maurice D’Sa the headmaster of St John’s Higher Primary School Shankerpura as well as his HM in the Primary School. Mr. D’Sa was a brilliant person with a helpful nature. He agreed to give a certificate by his expanded middle

name ‘P’ for Pascal as Pascal was John’s dad. But John wanted ‘P’ for ‘Prakash’. Mr. D’Sa obliged and gave the certificate as John Prakash Mendonca. Thus for his future life

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John P. Mendonca is being recognized as John Prakash Mendonca in all records including the passport. John still remained grateful to HM – Maurice D’Sa of his Primary School for solving the problem regarding his name.

John P. at Minnesota USA for higher studies: After getting his passport John applied for National Merit Scholarship. There were only 50 seats for the students all over India for all subjects. And John got selected. His two years teaching experience in KREC played a vital role in this selection. He did well in the interview held at New Delhi.

John obtained a seat at the University of Minnesota for higher studies.

John was given a send off by the youth club of Pangla which he himself had started at the suggestion of Fr. Gabriel Castelino, the then parish priest. Many elders of the parish also joined the function. John left for USA on December 29, 1971.

John started his studies at the University of Minnesota. It was winter and an odd time to join the course. That’s why he didn’t get a proper place for accommodation.

Finally he stayed with a Pakisthani Parsee student. John believed in humanity and not in any nationality.

The 1971 Indo-Pak war had just ended and the Pakistani students in the university started hating Indians.

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In this situation too John thought that his roommate being a Parsee would be harmless. But John was wrong. The Pakistanis with the help of John’s roommate gave him drugs, telling they were vitamin tablets. John had hallucinations and injuries due to accident under the effect of drugs. He was hospitalized for weeks. Thereafter he could not study and returned to India after six months.

Work in industrial sector: The Minnesota incident took some time for John to recover fully. In 1973 he joined Canara Steel at Baikampady, Mangalore. He worked there for 3 years. In the mean time he married Hilda D’Mello of Pangla.

She is the daughter of Andrew D’Mello (Pangla) and Alice Rodrigues (Shirva). Andrew had served in the medical field and was a social worker. John – Hilda’s was a bit of revolutionary marriage. He was probably the first and only one who didn’t have roce at that time.

The bride came in bridal saree for nuptials. Tying Kariamani and exchange of garlands was done in the church after the nuptials. John is

still grateful to Fr. Victor Saldanha, the then Parish Prieest of Pangla for allowing them to fulfill their wishes.

(This writer H. R. Alva adds: My bride Concepta too came in bridal saree for our nuptials on Jan 1, 1992. The wedding social program lasted only for an hour during evening time which ended with snacks and badam milk).

John resigned Canara Steels and joined a Steel Factory in Mysore.

Perhaps ill fate followed him there too. John met with a serious accident at the factory in 1978 and lost vision of left eye. He was operated for brain injury at National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bangalore and was lucky to survive.

In 1979 John left Mysore and returned to Mangalore. He started working in Canara Workshops at Maroli. His family was staying at Kulshekar. John was quite active in the parish. There was a cricket tournament for married people for the parishes of Mangalore. John was Captain of Kulshekar parish. They played against Bendur, Jeppu and Rosario parishes and won the matches. In the married couples’

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singing competition John and Hilda won prizes.

John wished to change his work place to take care of his aged parents: During early 1980s John’s regular prayer to God Almighty was to help him to take care of his aged parents staying with them and in 1983 God answered his prayer. He got a job at the newly started Lamina Foundries at Nitte, Karkala. John could go to the work place staying at his home at Shankerpura (Pangla). This also helped him in getting involved in social and religious activities in and around Pangla. This gave him opportunity to continue his acting and cricket activities. At Lamina Foundries John got 5 promotions in 10 years and in 1993 he was elevated to the post of General Manager.

1988 was the year of tragedies at his family says John. On April 5th his younger sister Jeneview (Jenny) who was working in a hospital in Poona met with an accident and breathed her last. She was the first rank holder in General Nursing at Karnataka

state level in 1974 from Fr. Muller’s Nursing School, Kankanady, Mangalore. For this achievement she was honored by the Mangalore Diocesan Catholic Youth Movement (CYM) at their Youth Rally in Mangalore in 1975 under the leadership of Austin D’Souza Prabhu. Jenny too was a singer and drama actor like John. In the same year 1988 on November 6th John’s dad died due to old age. His mother died in 2002. John is happy for having served his dad and mom during their old age.

During John’s working at Lamina Foundries for 15 long years he got interested in agriculture and horticulture. He planted many varieties of plants in their 2.5 acres land. His crops involve Jasmine, Coconut, Arecanut, Mango, Cashew, Guava, Pepper, Cocoa, Banana, variety of Water Apples and Cherries, Kokum, Bread fruit, Egg fruit, Sapota, Star fruit, Gooseberry, Ramphal, Sitaphal, Figs, Noni, Pineapple, Grape fruit, variety of lemon etc.

In 1998 John left Lamina and moved to Bangalore and served at the

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Bangalore Metallurgicals for five years. From this company he had an opportunity to visit Germany on a technical tour in December 2003. In Germany he visited Frankfurt and Nuremberg.

Since 1963 John was a member of St John’s Natak Sabha, Pangla. When this Sabha celebrated it’s Silver Jubilee John was the Vice president, Antony D’Sa being the President and this writer (H. R. Alva) the Secretary.

Afterwards John worked in another factory in Bangalore – G.C.I. Castings for about 10 years and got retired in 2013 at the age of 66.

John’s passion for acting and St John’s Natak Sabha of Pangala: Like the Konkani Natak Sabha in Mangalore at Pangla too St John’s Natak Sabha was established on October 30, 1960. Under the banner of this Natak Sabha there used to be at least 2 – 3 dramas mostly Konkani and Tulu each year in Pangla. In one such drama titled “Kumsaricho Ghut’ which was staged for 3 days in 1961 John had debuted in acting. At that time he was just 13. There after he never looked back. In the school, Colleges and in the parish he took part in over 20 dramas mostly during 1960s. Normally his roles were ‘Hero’. He acted in tragic roles too.

On this occasion a new Konkani drama competition was arranged on Nov. 23 and 24, 1985 which was inaugurated by veteran writer and drama personality Dolphy Lobo (Dolphy Cascia). The 2nd day

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grand finale of the Silver Jubilee was held which was presided over by Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, a Pangalite and Rector of Rosario Cathedral.

The guests were J. B. Rasquinha (Vice President of Konakni Natak Sabha, and Proprietor of Jerosa Company, Mangalore), ‘Konkan Kogul’ Wilfy Rebimbus and ‘Konkan Maina’ Meena Rebimbus. In the later years John became the President of St. John’s Natak Sabha.

About Family:

program was being chaired by Fr. Lawrence Mendonca, a Pangalite and Principal of Milagres College, Kallianpur. On Nov. 25th, 1985

John tied knot with Hilda D’Mello on July 7, 1974. This couple has 3

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children – two sons and one daughter. Children are brilliant like their parents.

Their eldest son Ryan was born in 1977. He did his MBA in Finance from Nitte Management College and started his career in Banking.

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He is married in 2004 with Clare Goveus of Mangalore. They have 2 daughters.

Presently he is the Vice President of Axis Bank and is based in Bangalore.

Their second son Rohan was born

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Third child of John – Hilda couple Roshni was born in 1984. After completing her studies at Mount Carmel College, Bangalore worked for Hewlett & Packard (HP). She did her MBA from Symbiosis, Poona in 2010. She is married to Valerian D’Souza of Poona. This couple has 2 sons.

John and Hilda visited Australia on Dec.17, 2019. They stayed for 45 days with son Rohan in Melbourne and another 45 days with daughter Roshni in Sydney visiting many places of importance. They returned to India on March 15, 2020 just before a few days when flights were cancelled due to covid 19. in1980. He did his MBBS from Belguam Medical College and MD from St John Medical College, Bangalore in Phycheatry. He served at Fr. Muller’s, Kankanady for a few years and then worked at Yenapoya Medical College, Mangalore as Professor and Head of the Dept. of Psychiatry. He is married to Dr. Anita Thomas from Thrissur, Kerala. The couple has a son. Rohan moved to Australia in 2018 and is a consultant in Melbourne.

Engineer turned agriculturist:

a

full

time

John is living in Pangla since 2013 after retiring from active industrial service. He is fully involved in agriculture and horticulture. He delivers talks on various occasions about jasmine and his experience in agriculture. One such talk was at the Pangla Parish Sabha Bhavana at Shankerpura on March 27, 2022 in connection with the Centenary year

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of Pangla Church about the arrival of jasmine cultivation to Pangla. He also delivered a talk on the subject at the Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology & Management at Bantakal, near Shankerpura. Daijiworld.com, Veez Konkani and Veez Illustrated Weekly have published his articles on jasmine cultivation of Pangla.

Besides agricultural work he is involved in social and church related activities in and around Pangla. He served as the Gurkar of his ward for a period of 5 years. His grandfather and father were also Gurkars of the ward. Thus John’s is the third

generation service as Gurkar.

He served as a member and office bearer of St John’s Natak Sabha Pangla, member of St Vincent De Paul Society (SVP), member and President of Catholic Sabha, Pangla. John was a member of Rotary Club of Shirva and when a Rotary Club was started

at Shankerpura he became a member and for one year he served

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as its Vice President in the nineties.

Our close acquaintance:

John and I are from the same parish – Pangla. When I was a Primary school student he was a Hero of Pangla. In the later years our affinity grown up during our involvement in various activities. In 1992 August John and I had visited Jog Falls with family and friends on a pleasure trip.

This July 21st John P. Mendonca completes 75 years and celebrates his Platinum Birthday. On this happy occasion I wish him a very Happy Birthday and many more to come.

May Platinum turn into Century.

Contact number of John P. Mendonca : +91 9845597599 (WhatsApp)

-

H. R. Alva

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Be Artisans of the Revolution of Tenderness “In old age they will still bear fruit” (Ps. 92: 15) Message of his Holiness Pope Francis for the Second World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly.

themselves, who harbour few expectations for the future, says the Pope in his introduction.

On 24th July2022 we will be celebrating the 2nd World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. It is the Sunday closest to 26th July when the Church celebrates the memory of Sts. Joachim and Anne, parents of Blessed Virgin Mary and grandparents of Jesus.

Explaining the mind-set of the ‘throw-away culture’ that is prevalent today, Pope Francis says: “Many people are afraid of old age. They consider it a sort of disease with which any contact is best avoided. The elderly, they think, are none of their concern and should be set apart, perhaps in homes or places where they can be cared for, lest we must deal with their problems”. This is not just a problem or mindset of the West. This mindset is prevalent also in India and as a result so many aged and sick persons are simply neglected by their own children and grandchildren, and many die in miserable conditions.

However, the Bible teaches that long life is a blessing, and the elderly are not outcasts to be

Pope Francis who instituted the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly last year has sent the Message for the 2nd World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly taking the theme from the Psalm 92:15 "In old age they will still bear fruit". These words of the Psalmist are glad tidings, a true ‘gospel’ which run counter to what the world thinks about this stage of life, but also to the attitude of grim resignation on the part of elderly

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shunned but living signs of the goodness of God who bestows life in abundance, affirms the Pope.

According to Pope Francis, old age is not understood properly, often even by those who experience it.

No one prepares us for old age.

The more developed societies may expend large sums on this stage of life, but they do not really help people to understand and appreciate it. “They offer healthcare plans to the elderly but not plans for living this age to the full”. The Holy Father very positively affirms: “Growing old is more than the natural decline of the body or the inevitable passage of time, but the gift of a long life.

Aging is not a condemnation, but a blessing”.

Pope Francis urges the elderly to take care of themselves and remain active in their later years.

This holds true also for spiritual life: “We ought to cultivate our interior life through the assiduous reading of the word of God, daily prayer, reception of the sacraments and participation in

the liturgy. In addition to our relationship with God, we should also cultivate our relationships with others: first of all by showing affectionate concern for our families, our children and grandchildren, but also for the poor and those who suffer, by drawing near to them with practical assistance and our prayers”.

In fact, the Holy Father, who himself is aged and sickly having great difficulty in walking due to severe knee pain, encourages grandparents and the elderly persons to actively contribute to what he calls the revolution of tenderness, a spiritual and nonviolent revolution, imitating St. Joseph, the Father of tenderness.

Pope Francis mentions the sudden and violent outbreak of the pandemic and the war in Ukraine that is harming peace and development on a global scale and does not miss the opportunity to point to the “need for a profound change, a conversion, that disarms hearts and leads us to see others

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as our brothers and sisters.” He goes on to remind the elderly of their great responsibility in this regard: “We grandparents and elderly people have a great responsibility: to teach the women and men of our time to regard others with the same understanding and loving gaze with which we regard our own grandchildren”. The Pontiff appeals to the elderly to bring forth one particular fruit in our present context, namely, to protect the world. He says: “Our grandparents held us in their arms and carried us on their knees; now is the time for us to carry on our own knees – with practical assistance or with prayer alone – not only our own grandchildren but also the many frightened grandchildren whom we have not yet met and who may be fleeing from war or suffering its effects.

Let us hold in our hearts – like Saint Joseph, who was a loving and attentive father – the little ones of Ukraine, of Afghanistan, of South Sudan…”

Pope Francis reminds us that we are not saved alone, and that happiness is a bread we break together. He also affirms that living together in peace is not only possible, but necessary. In a highly polarized society like ours, divided on communal lines, this necessity is felt more than ever before.

The Pope appeals to grandparents and elderly persons to be artisans of the revolution of tenderness in our world. “Let us do so by learning to make ever more frequent and better use of the most valuable instrument at our disposal and, indeed, the one best suited to our age: prayer…... Our trustful prayer can do a great deal: it can accompany the cry of pain of those who suffer, and it can help change hearts.”

The Holy Father wants this Day to be really celebrated in all parishes and communities and asks us to make sure that no one feels alone on this day. He reminds us that visiting the elderly who live alone is a work of mercy in our time.

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Finally, concluding his Message seeking the intercession of our Blessed Mother he writes: “Let us ask Our Lady, Mother of Tender Love, to make all of us artisans of the revolution of tenderness, so that together we can set the world free from the spectre of loneliness and the demon of war.”

I have quoted the Pope profusely so that those who do not have the opportunity to read the full text of Holy Father’s Message will still get most of his thoughts in his own words.

I wish the grandparents and elderly persons God’s abundant

blessings so that they become artisans of the revolution of tenderness and still continue to bear fruits despite their advanced age.

+ Gerald John Mathias Bishop of Lucknow

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‘West Asian Quad’ I2U2 is a grouping comprising India, Israel, UAE & US. Nicknamed, ‘West Asian Quad’, it was first conceptualized during a meeting of the four foreign ministers on 18 October 2021.

The leaders of the four countries, PM Modi of India, Israeli PM Yair Lapid, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and US President Joe Biden met online for the first virtual summit this week.

Biden was on his maiden state visit to Tel Aviv when the summit took place.

The participation of UAE in the grouping is made possible by the Abraham Accords, the signature initiative of former US President

Donald Trump. Biden has carried forward the legacy of his predecessor.

Food Security is topmost concern: At the summit, UAE announced that it will invest $2 billion in India to develop food parks across the country under the I2U2 (IndiaIsrael-UAE-USA) grouping. The summit also committed to set up a 300-MW hybrid renewable energy project in Gujarat.

India will provide appropriate land for the food parks project and will facilitate farmers’ integration into the food parks. The US and Israeli private sectors will be invited to lend their expertise and offer innovative solutions that contribute to the overall sustainability of the project.

The UAE is particularly concerned about its food security due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine which has stopped grain shipments from

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its Black Sea Ports. President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan told the leaders that “only partnership can overcome today’s conflicts and overlapping challenges, the most important of which are food and energy security, climate change, and healthcare”.

Biden said that “the UAE’s investment to develop integrated agricultural parks across India with the support of the American and Israeli private sector experts has the potential to sustainably increase India’s food yields in the region threefold in just five years. India is a major, major food producer in the world. Think of the beneficial impacts this will have on India’s farmers and the people suffering from hunger and malnutrition in the region.”

Israel Prime Minister Lapid said a “food corridor” between India and the UAE will, to a large extent, address food security issues in the two countries. “An initiative like the food corridor between India and the UAE, which was put together by this group, is a clear example of a creative solution to a problem we’re all facing. The fast transportation of

food and preservation technologies, the ability to connect relative advantages together — this is the solution to the problem,” Lapid added.

The I2U2 group aims to mobilize private sector capital and expertise to help modernize infrastructure, develop low-carbon methodologies for industries, improve public health, and promote the development of critical emerging and green technologies.

India to play ‘critical role’ A day before the I2U2 summit took place, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said that just as the US “can play a critical and central role in helping deepen Israel’s integration into the region, India has a role to play in that as well”.

US acknowledges that India has very longstanding ties to and engagement in the Middle East. Its relationships with the Arab Gulf countries have endured for several decades, if not centuries. Its relationship with Israel has withstood multiple challenges over the years and grown into strategic

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partnership. “As the United States can play a critical and central role in helping deepen Israel’s integration into the region, India has a role to play in that as well,” according to US officials accompanying President Biden.

India, as member of QUAD, already plays a critical role in the IndoPacific. US views India as “one of the largest, most significant, most strategically consequential countries in the Indo-Pacific; and so, it should play a central role in our strategy, including through the Quad”.

The ‘Middle East Quad’ or ‘West Asia Quad’.

Israel today has the opportunity of using the financial prowess of Dubai to market its technology-driven offerings, something which the country is known for. The Gulf states, in return, will benefit from the defense technologies offered by Israel. Bahrain is reportedly looking at Israeli drones and anti-drone systems to counter the threat from Iran.

Arab Gulf countries are seeking a new strategic partnership with the US that would offer them binding protection if the event of a military conflict with Iran. Biden, on the other hand, is having to maintain a balance between remaining a vital player in the region, but also not getting militarily entangled. The recent, messy American withdrawal from Afghanistan has only heightened anxieties in the Gulf of what American support without agreed guarantees would entail in the future.

What is in it for India? An Indian view: India is looking for energy security in exchange for food security for the Gulf countries. India however is known not to take sides in the Middle Eastern Geo-Politics. Nonalignment, though a dying concept, still resonates when it comes to India’s West Asia policy. The Abraham Accords, since their signing, have undoubtedly stabilized the region to a certain extent, but have also created two major blocks, one being Iran, and

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the other that is now seen as antiIran.

are a cause for concern for both the US and India.

India will have to walk a tight tightrope between its stead-fast relationship with Iran and what the Arab Gulf expects from India in the defense sector. India would like to ensure that that a Gulf-Israeli defense pact does not push India to take an anti-Iran stand and get it entangled in regional tensions.

I2U2 opens a new platform for Indian skills. India's relations with the other I2U2 members are already at their best so far. India's defense ties with both Israel and the US have improved under the Modi administration. With the I2U2, India will be looking at more investments from the US, UAE and Israel, and in return, provide trained skill power to achieve the six goals that define the group. India and the UAE have already signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to boost trade and investment. The UAE is set to offer six-month visas to Indians to search for a job in the country. India is seeing a churn in the region and therefore it is better to be on the table rather than off it.

Given that transportation is one of the six goals, the West Asian bloc brings the focus to the western Indian Ocean where China's influence is growing, emerging as a threat to India's security in its own backyard. China opened its first African base in Djibouti in 2017 and is building another in Equatorial Guinea. Infrastructure projects have helped China grow its influence in Comoros, Seychelles, Maldives and Sri Lanka. In March 2021, China signed a 25-year strategic partnership agreement with Iran, which will give Beijing a military foothold in the region. China's belligerent actions in the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean Region

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Once the Home of St.Francis Xavier

'Manapad' in Tamil Nadu

Manapad Holy Cross Church Definitely, readers are quite familiar with the Jesuit co-founder St.Francis Xavier, (April 7, 1506 – December 3,1552) his influence on Goa, the west coast of India and the Southernmost part of the Indian Peninsula is well known. In Mangalore he is a much revered saint who has contributed to its Catholicity directly and visited it several times according to legend.

Many churches and institutions exist named after him, one well known is Francis Xavier Church in Bijai; many of our folks bear his name. In fact the very first Konkani Mangalorean on the path to Sainthood now,

Servant of God, Rev Msgr Raymond Francis Camilius Mascarenhs, was always very proud that one of his names was 'Francis', there is much devotion present to St.Francis Xavier. In fact an early church built

by Servant of God Mgr Mascarenhas ay Udyavar is dedicated to the saint, it is now a large prominent and active church. St. FX is a prime part of Portuguese catholic history and South India by all accounts.

Refer to any life of this saint and you are sure to find 'MANAPAD' a little known town along the Mannar Coast between Thuthukudi (Tuticorin) and Kanyakumari.

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Manapad is a quaint little sandyfishing town on the shores of the Bay of Bengal which has for a long half a century now fascinated me everytime I recall the times spent there. At the sandy tip of the beach here, just on the waters edge is an old Chapel cave and strangely it has a small well in a corner of the well which produces sweet clear fresh water and it seems not to have ever dried up though the town is always short of good supply of

water. The legend is St.Francis made this cave his home when he spent time here (in the 1530s) and preached Christianity, this town with 3 huge ancient churches and 2 smaller ones totalling 5, is indeed 'A Jerusalem' of India as often said.

During my sojourn in that area in 1971-72, I had the privilege of living right at this spot near the cave and Holy Cross Church with a British built Lighthouse, another landmark..

Most of the Tamil 'Paravars' here are

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traditional Roman Catholics and their livelihood is fishing out in the deep sea with frail looking 'Catamarans'. The Nadars are the other prominent block, mostly merchants.

There were good schools even in the 1970s and some of the older population had close ties and businesses in Sri Lanka.

Their mansions on the far end of town were palatial and artistic in the European villa style with little gardens and their ways very European. The population was low as no employment was there and mostly the older folk lived here.

They had Portuguese like names and surnames of.. Fernando, Moraes, Rodrigo, Vaiz, Silva and so on. Let us take a systematic view of

this very rare historic town : Manapad Town : Along the coastline between Tuticorin (Thoothukudi) and Kanyakumari lies a fisherman hamlet – 'Manapad', a beautiful scenic seaside landscape that truly is a treat to the senses.

This coromandel cost is roughly 60 kilometres from Tuticorin and 18 km south of Tiruchendur, a perfect home to some of the important landmarks in Indian catholic sites such as the Holy Cross Church and St. Francis Xavier’s Grotto. Let’s dive into Manapad, With its history dating back to the 1500s this little summer land is the home to one of the ancient relics. But before that

28 Veez Illustrated Weekly

you need to know its story. So let's start with a quick look into the Christian history of Manapad.

Back in the 1500s, a Portuguese ship was caught in the terrible tides of the Bay of Bengal when it was making its trip from the Cape Of Good Hope to the east. This was due to the violent storm that raged within the deep waters challenging the lives of everyone aboard the ship. The water shook the ship, damaging it terribly. Grasping for his life, the captain of the ship, a strong believer of Christ made a prayer for the lives of his men and his. He vowed that if he and his people found land, escaping the storm, they would erect a cross using a broken piece of the ship.

Almost miraculously, the crew found land and reached Manapad.

Washed ashore with them was a plank of the ship that resembled a cross. The miracles related to the mysterious plank amazed both the crew and the locals of Manapad, that they started attributing healing powers to it. Above all, this called for a great feast and celebration.

The locals and crew together held a feast, and erected the Holy Cross church at the hillock of Manapad.

As a result, even today the church is of great significance, part of the local history, and has its fame spread far and wide.

Manapad is India’s 'Little Jerusalem' :Now, coming to the ancient relic we read about above, around 1530, St. Francis Xavier landed in Manapad, and took abode in one of the grottos/caves which is now an important landmark for Catholic pilgrims in the Indian Subcontinent. It was his arrival that made Manapad a community of Catholics, much like Goa and Mangalore. The saint lived and preached near the Portuguese captain’s holy cross. His way of life attracted the locals of that time, that

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they called him a saint even before the church titled him.

Later, upon his departure, and with the Holy cross church built, Rev. John de Salanova decided to make it a place of significance by bringing in one of the ancient relics in time – a piece of the 'True Cross' dating back to Christ. Back in 1583 an appeal was made to Rome through the General of the Jesuits Rev. Fr. Aquaviva for a fragment of the True Cross. With Pope Gregory XIII’s approval, the relic arrived at Cochin where it was received with due reverence by Rev. Mathew de Medina. Then a great procession of

Catholics carried the relic across the Malabar coast and brought it to the Holy Cross Church. Soon the event brought in immense significance to the thinly populated coastal hamlet.

His Holiness Pope Leo XIII named the hamlet as “A Little Jerusalem” The holy cross relic : The True Cross is believed to be the physical remains of the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified. Said to have been found during the search of sacred relics, by Empress Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, the first Christian emperor of Rome.

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Historians such as Gelasius of Caesarea and Rufinus have supported the claim that St. Helena discovered the hiding place of three crosses that were believed to have been used at the crucifixion of Jesus and the two thieves. Among the three crosses, the True Cross (Jesus’ Cross) was identified by the titulus bearing Jesus’s name.

Later, the True Cross was broken into pieces and sent far and wide which is now possessed by a few churches. The Holy Cross Church in Manapad is one of these few churches and that gives it a firm mark in the map for Christian holy sites. This coastal hamlet is a devout place and rich in history. For the most part, its centuries old mansions, and simple huts by the beach, enhance the land which is blessed with pleasant weather and friendly locals who are warm and welcoming. If you visit Manapad, during the month of September when the entire locale comes alive with festivities and cheer. In this month every year, the locals celebrate the festival of the

Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

September 14, to be exact, all churches do. At this time of the year pilgrims from all over India and further, the Malabar coast especially, gather here with piety and devotion. This festival holds a solid part in the hamlets history followed with reverence for generations over centuries. In short, you can witness the procession of the relic of the true cross and join the thousands.

Holy spots of Manapad : Manapad’s beautiful sea shore, and tropical weather are perfect for strolling across the hamlet. In particular, all the churches in Manapd are a must see. Also, dive into the divinity of these places, and cherish its breathtaking architecture. For an authentic local feeling, attend one of their evening masses to truly experience the Manapad lifestyle. The churches and places of historical importance in Manapad include - Holy Cross Church (on the hill), St. Francis Xaviers Grotto/Chapel on the beach, St. James church, Church of the Holy

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Ghost ....There are also many shrines and crosses around this little fishing town. One town nearby is called 'Nazareth' . Do not miss the splendid view of the ocean from the view point atop the hillock. But, make sure you spend time at the water's edge of the Sea where the Cave Chapel St.Francis Xavier once lived, it has an altar and the miraculous sweet water well the saint used - it's a wonder!

Travel to Manapad : In general, Manapad is easily accessible from Tuticorin, Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli and Temple town Thiruchendur (which is also a rail head) is the closest.

Local visitors reach Manapad from Tuticorin/Thuthukodi by bus. Other district/state visitors: reach Tuticorin by road or rail, and then take a bus or cab to Manapad.

Foreign travellers reach Chennai international airport, transit to Tuticorin and then take a bus or cab to Manapad. Overall, Manapad has excellent transportation facilities from Tuticorin and Kanyakumari. It has good roads, if you prefer to

take a road trip. Indeed this is a holy and Historical place worth visiting.

Francis Xavier : 7 April 1506 – 3 December 1552), venerated as Saint

Francis Xavier, was a Navarrese Catholic missionary and saint who was a co-founder of the Society of Jesus.

He was a companion of Ignatius of Loyola and one of the first seven Jesuits who took vows of poverty and chastity at Montmartre, Paris in 1534. He led an extensive mission into Asia, mainly the Portuguese Empire in the East, and was influential in evangelisation work, most notably in early modern India. Although some sources claim that the Goan Inquisition was proposed by Francis Xavier, in a letter to John III of Portugal, he asked for a special minister whose sole office would be to further Christianity in Goa. He was also the first Christian missionary to venture

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into Japan, Borneo, the Maluku Shangchuan Island.

He was Islands, and other areas. In those beatified by Pope Paul V on 25 areas, struggling to learn the local October 1619 and canonized by languages and in the face of Pope Gregory XV on 12 March 1622. opposition, he had less success than Is considered to be one of the what he had enjoyed in India. Xavier greatest missionaries since Paul the was about to extend his mission to Apostle.

Qing China, when he died on ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SAC felicitates Dr John Edward Dsilva on his superannuation

Dr John Edward Dsilva, Associate Professor of Mathematics and Director of Xavier Block, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru was felicitated by the College on the

occasion of his superannuation. The programme was organized in association with Staff Association of SAC and the Department of Mathematics. Rev. Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, Rector of St Aloysius Institutions, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Principal,

33 Veez Illustrated Weekly

faculty members and retired staff members attended the programme.

Dr John Edward DSilva began his career in St Aloysius institutions as a

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Lecturer in the Department of DSilva also served as the President Mathematics, St Aloysius College of St Aloysius College Staff (Autonomous), Mangaluru in the Association and attained year 1987. He served as a lecturer in superannuation on 24/06/2022. He the Mathematics department for 12 served the institution for 35 years. years from 1987 to 1999. From 1999 He is the husband of Mrs Helen M to 2006 he served as Dean of PU Serrao, Associate Professor of College. Later from 2006 to 2012 he Chemistry, St Agnes College gave his service as the Principal of (Autonomous), Mangaluru.

PU College. He came back to degree The Management, Principal and the college in the year 2012 and served staff of St Aloysius College as Vice-Principal of Arrupe block till (Autonomous), Mangaluru wishes 2018. From 2018 to 2022 he served Dr John Edward DSilva a happy, as Director of Xavier Block. Dr John healthy and contented retired life.

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St Aloysius College honoured Cyclist Bajesh Sharma

St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangalore, honoured Cyclist Brajesh Sharma, a 36-year-old

young man from Madhya Pradesh holding a nationwide “Bharat Paryatan” Mission since 2019 to

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bring awareness on Single use of Plastic and Organic Farming, who reached St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru on 14th July 2022.

Principal, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis, SJ, congratulated Mr Brajesh Sharma for his noteworthy mission and encouraged him to complete his

mission. He said that Brijesh Sharma is doing a wonderful job by spreading awareness about the single use of plastic and organic farming to save mother earth as well as all the living beings. We all should encourage his thoughtful mission and contribute whatever way

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possible to save our mother earth, he added.

Dr Alwyn D’Sa, Registrar & Controller of Examinations, introduced Mr Brajesh Sharma and his mission to the audience.

Mr Brijesh Sharma in his speech said “My aim is to reach as many children, adults and farmers, and see that my campaign against

Single-Use plastic and Organic farming is proven fruitful and successful. I am happy that so far I have interacted with more than 30 lakh students and nine lakh farmers on various issues. I have noted that when kids are enlightened, they will naturally urge their parents to shun single-use plastic. It should be also noted that the country’s core strength lies in rural India and

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organic farming and both should not be disturbed.”

Directors of various blocks, Deans of various streams, teaching and nonteaching staff were present for the programme. Mr Roshan compered the programme.

Brajesh Sharma launched his

campaign on 17 September 2019 from Gandhinagar, Gujarat, on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, and reaching Mangaluru by peddling almost 36,000 kms covering nine states, including over 7500 places and 215 cities. He has interacted with thousands of school and college students in an effort to

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convince them of the benefits of organic farming and the dangers of single-use plastic. He stops in villages and talks with farmers about organic farming and its benefits.

Brajesh Sharma has so far covered nine states, including Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya

Pradesh, Maharashtra and Goa, and will be touring various places in Karnataka. During his journey, he visits schools and colleges to create awareness of organic farming and single-use plastic.

About Mr Brajesh Sharma Cyclist Brajesh Sharma is hailing from Sikroda in Morena district,

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Madhya Pradesh. He is the son of Rajendra Prasad Sharma, a businessman and (late) Ms Meera Sharma, having three sisters and one brother. After his graduation in Arts, he joined India’s BSF from 2008-2012. Unfortunately, he had to quit from BSF as he injured his leg due to a bike accident. Later, he worked in TCS in Gujrat, after which he worked in Georgia, Europe till 2019.

Sharma, who was working at a private company in Europe, once saw a video where a bird was trapped in plastic. He then decided to embark on a drive to create awareness about the threat to life and the environment from plastic.

He quit his job and took a mission under the title “Bharat Paryatan” by riding a bicycle and started spreading awareness about single use of plastic and organic farming.

During the campaign, Mr Sharma prefers any road-side shelter including dhabas, temples, bus shelters instead of renting the lodges. Many local people have come forward to offer him food and

accommodation, after hearing about his mission.

In Mangaluru, while he was travelling on National Highway Police Constable Venkatesh of Urwa Police Station meeting Sharma offered to stay with him, in his apartment near Urwa Stores, also providing him food. He said that he rides with just three pairs of clothes and buys new ones only after the existing ones get soiled or worn out.

He said until now he has already spent close to Rs four lakhs on this journey, and now is totally out of his savings, but he will never quit his campaign whatsoever, as many kind donors have come forward to help him financially.

During his stay in Mangaluru, Brajesh Sharma met MCC Commissioner Akshy Sridhar, DCP Anshu Kumar Srivatsav (DCP-Law & Order), Mangaluru, Police Commissioner of Mangaluru, N Shashi Kumar and Arun PrabhaGeneral Manager-Technical at MSCL. They praised the initiative of Brajesh promoting awareness on Single-Use plastic, and Organic Farming.

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CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP 2021-22

St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru in association with Mangalore University organised a 2 day chess tournament on 13 and 14 July 2022.

The valedictory programme of the tournament began at 4:30 pm. The audience were welcomed by Ms. Asha Albuquerque, Assistant Professor of English. The Chief Guests for the event were Dr Gerald Santosh Dsouza, Director, Department of Physical Education,

Mangalore University and Sri Venugopalakrishna Nonda, Rtd Physical Education Director, St Mary's College, Shirva.

Other dignitaries on the dais were Sr Dr M Venissa A.C., the Principal, Sri. Derik Pinto, Founder Derik's Chess School Mangalore, Mr. Ganesh Kotian, Physical Education Director UPM College Udupi, the Observer for the tournament and Ms. Vasudha, Physical Education Director.

41 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The winners of the tournament in

the women's category were Sri Poornaprajna Evening College, Udupi. The runners up were Shri Kalavara Varadaraja M Shetty Government First Grade College Koteshwara, Udupi. The third place was bagged by SDM Degree College, Ujire and the fourth place was bagged by St. Agnes College, Mangaluru.

The champions in the men's category and the Gulabi Shivarama Nonda Rolling Trophy for men were awarded to Vivekananda College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Puttur.

The second place was won by Alva’s

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College, Mududbidri The third place The event ended with Ms. Vasudha, was bagged by SDM Degree Physical Education Director College, Ujire and the fourth place proposing the vote of thanks. Ms was bagged by Trisha Evening Tanu if II BSc compered the College, Mangalore. programme.

There were 6 individual board game awards for men and 5 individual board game awards for women.

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Mangalore Diocese officials, leaders representatives meet and greet Dr Veerendra Heggade

Report by Fr Anil Fernandes, Pics by Stanly Bantwal

MANGALURU, JULY 15: In a formal meeting held on Friday, July 15, 2022, the officials of the Diocese of

43 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Mangalore, Catholic Sabha and

Youth

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leaders

with

a

few

representatives of priests, nuns and

lay

faithful

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met

the

recently

nominated member of Rajya Sabha 46 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Dr

D.

Veerendra

Heggade,

Dharmadhikari

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of

Sri

Kshetra

Dharmasthala.

Msgr Very Rev. Fr Maxim L. Noronha, Vicar General, Very Rev. Dr J. B. Saldanha and Mr Roy Castelino, PR Officers of the diocese, Rev. Fr Rupesh Madtha, Designate Editor of Raknno Weekly, Rev. Fr Anil Fernandes, Director, Canara Communication Centre, Dr John DSilva, Secretary, Diocesan Pastoral Council, Mr Romans Lobo, member of the Commission for InterReligious Dialogue congratulated the nominated Member of Parliament Dr Heggade on behalf of the bishop and the diocese.

Dr Heggade was felicitated with boquette of flowers and shawls by Msgr Very Rev. Maxim L. Noronha Vicar General on behalf of Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore.

Dharmasthala at his residence in

In his response Dr Heggade said, "Bishop of Mangalore wished me over the phone recently and I was glad to speak to him. Through Rural development projects, selfemployment and women

48 Veez Illustrated Weekly

empowerment, we were able to attract the Central government and those successful models were replicated across the country.

Through my nomination to Rajya Sabha I will extend my service to the country and represent you all."

The President and office bearers of Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh (R) Mr Stany Lobo, President, Mr Manohar Cutinho and Mr Vinod Pinto, vice presidents, Mr Alphonse Fernandes, treasurer, Mr Francis Serrao, joint treasurer and Mr Paul Rolphy Dcosta, immediate past president greeted Mr Heggade with flowers and shawls.

The president and office bearers of Catholic Sabha, Belthangady unit, Mr Edward Rego, president, Mr Jerome Lobo, immediate past President Mr Arun Fernandes, vice president and Mr Gregory Fernandes, joint secretary greeted Dr Heggade and felicitated him with shawls and flower garland.

Fr Joseph Cardoza, parish priest,

Balthangady, Fr Clifford Pinto, Principal, Belthangady, Mrs Pauline Rego, Belthamgady, Fr James D'Souza, parish priest Ujire, Fr Vijay Lobo, Principal Anugraha English Medium School, Ujire, Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest, Madanthyar, Mr Leo Rodrigues, Mr Vivek Vincent Pais and Mr Jerald Moras, Madanthyar, Religious sisters from Belthangady and Badyar Sr Flossy, Sr Ramitha, Sr Jyothsna, Sr Sevrine and Sr Valsa congratulated Dr Heggade and offered him a boquette of flowers.

Rev. Fr Ashwin Cardoza, Director, Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Mangalore, president Jaison Lawrence Crasta and Naveen D’Souza also greeted Dr Heggade.

Mr Romans Lobo addressing the gathered noted that Dr Heggade is the recipient of the second highest civilian award Padma Vibhushan, which was bestowed on him in 2015 for his philanthropic and charitable works to uplift the masses.

He further noted that the Rajya

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Sabha nominated member Mr Heggade would be representing Karnataka State and expand the state's representation in the Rajya Sabha.

He has been a devoted philanthropist for more than five decades. He has led various transformative initiatives for rural development and the promotion of self-employment, Mr Lobo added.

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Mangaluru: St Aloysius College alumni batch of

1972 set for golden reunion on Jan 11, 2023 Mangaluru, Jul 13: A grand reunion of the 1972 batch of St Aloysius College will be held on January 11, 2023, in the college premises, to mark the completion of 50 years of graduation.

Fifty eventful years have passed so quickly in the life of students who

have passed out in the year 1972 from Aloysius College, whether from BA, BCom or different streams of BSc. Life has come to a full circle for these Aloysians from stepping into a period of active life after college and now, to the period of retirement.

Quite a few have settled down in and around Mangaluru, but most of them are residing outside Mangaluru and outside India as well. Irrespective of what career path they have chosen whether service or business, all have become successful and can now look back to all those productive years with satisfaction that they were an asset

to the society, to the community, to their own family and have done well for themselves.

That is what one calls the unfailing ‘Brand Aloysius’. Sadly, quite a few of them are not in this world anymore. Some of them have left this world early and some have left late.

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Final BA (1972 Batch)

Every year, in the month of January, for the past two years, the golden jubilee of Aloysian Graduation is being celebrated. It started with 1970 batch, and then the 1971 batch, had a mega celebration this

year. Now it is the turn of 1972 batch. Extensive efforts are on to get the contacts of each of the batchmates and so far around 70 contacts have been established and a WhatsApp group has been

52 Veez Illustrated Weekly

formed, to be in touch with one another. It is heartwarming to observe the messages being exchanged among the classmates. A breakfast get together was organized on the April 24 at the college hall and 27 batch mates

attended the function and enjoyed those nostalgic moments.

The 1972 batch consisting of BA, BCom and BSc, had a total student strength of 281. Out of these, the contacts of only 70 plus students were established through word of mouth and personal contacts.

Final BSc BZ-C (1972 Batch) The alumni are now reaching out from the BCom batch. They hope through Daijiworld to the others, as that out of the 281 of the batch it is widely read by most of the mates, they should be able to get in Mangalureans worldwide. They are touch with at least 150. It is surely hereby appealing to all the 1972 possible. As a reader of this article, batch mates to contact at the one belonging to the 1972 batch earliest, so that they can build an and was not aware of this initiative active database and the missing taken for the golden reunion, can ones can be a part of the get in touch with the alumni at any celebration. of the contacts here and they will An organizing committee is already get back immediately. This is once in in place headed by Archie Menezes a lifetime opportunity.

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Final BSc PM-C (1972 Batch) The alumni have requested to Aloysius) contact by July 31 through any of 9741162025- Archibald Menezes the following contacts. One can 9343561405 - Gregory Serrao state their name, batch, 9740233061 – Ramesh Rao phone/WhatsApp number and 9880439501 – Narayana Poojari email: 9995422061 – Varadaraj Pai Email: sac.sacaa@gmail.com 9845164130 – Harold Fernandes Phone/WhatsApp: + 971 55 1003500 – James 8904704798Savitha D’Souza Mendonca (alumni relations manager, St ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Mangalurean Renessa Walder to

represent Oman at World Hip Hop Dance Championship in USA Daijiworld Muscat

Media

Network

–

Muscat, Jul 15: Nine dancers from Oman will represent the country at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship – Varsity Division – in Phoenix in the southwestern US state of Arizona from August 6 to 13. Over 4,000 of the world’s best

dancers are expected to participate in World Hip Hop Dance Championship 2022 which is one of the most celebrated and toughest dance competitions in the world, and called the ‘Olympics of Dance'.

Mangalurean Renessa

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Renessa is the eldest daughter of Ajith and Naina Walder, currently studying in Grade X at the Indian School, Al Wadi Kabir in Muscat, Oman.

Walder is one among them.

Ajith Walder is a well-known community leader and the former president of MCCP, Muscat – Oman.

He has his roots originated in Loretto-Bantwal.

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The other eight in the group are Rishab Gupta, Shrika Shaji, Divit Kashyap, Sneha Buddhia, Rezwin Geordi, Leando Rayner, Anaida Shokrekhoda, Vaidehi Rastogi and and Nia Bailwad. The team is called ‘The Arab Teens’. The team’s performance at the competition will be choreographed by Prasanth Shinde, while Shiv Gupta and Nadeem al Balushi are directors of the group.

Tejas Udani Gupta, team leader of Arab Teens said that theirs is the only team from the Gulf to be at the prestigious event for a two minute slot.

The calibre and prowess of Renessa in dance landed her a spot in the World Hip Hop Dance

Championship. Her innate multifaceted talent was showcased at a tender age of 6 and her various awards winnings speaks for herself.

Renessa’s most prestigious award is the 'Student of the year 2020’ from RADA Dance Academy-Mumbai.

She has been endorsed by all who got a glimpse of her amazing talent, as the one who could storm the dance industry.

Renessa has created and released many interesting videos on Instagram (https://instagram.com/renessa_kin gsmct?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel /UCFs_DYJulg_t1dIbwbnI0_g).

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57 Veez Illustrated Weekly

WE ARE NOT MIDNIGHT'S CHILDREN OR A Pakistani Mangalorean's Lament We are not midnight's children, We are not Sarasvati'WE ARE NOT MIDNIGHT'S CHILDREN OR A Pakistani Mangalorean's Lament s children We are Mangalore's children Born in the land of the pure Pak Sar Zameen Where is the Mangalore That you speak of Pray tell Your Paki Mangalorean boy.

A broken branch transplanted in a far away land The stories we heard kept us alive made us fly Like a bird in our mind We heard not the bell of the Bijey church But the Allah Oh Akbar The Muezzin calls, But we go not to the prayer.

We are the Church's children Washed and dried out In the Pakistani sun.

Our brains thirsting 58 Veez Illustrated Weekly

For Jesuit instruction.

Our feet washed, Our brains scrubbed.

Dare we call it Brainwashing No Nikah No Hijab Holy communion Holy matrimony Short skirts Bare legs The Muslim man Wonders No Hijab No Burqa!

No Bangalore club No Catholic club Karachi gymkhana We get our grub Richard Crasta Write us a Karachi Sutra Urdu vortex sutra We have no Falnir But Malir We have no Kankanadi but port of Karachi Karachi boys are quite naughty * Would call it Konka - Annadi* No Jana Gana Being Pak Our only Guna No Border crossing No Mexican jumpin 59 Veez Illustrated Weekly

No Wagah border Homecoming Mangalore, Bangalore are just words rhyming Muslim Karachi Our only reality Prophet Mohammed Peace be upon HIM and the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ Be with you Amen! *PS: Added two lines to the poem at the suggestion of Mohan Prabhu to incorporate some Konkani into the poem Anthony Goveas @2021 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pool Campus Interview of Amazon India limited held at SAC College, St Agnes College, Canara College, Vidhyalakshmi

A pool campus interview of Amazon India limited was organized on the 7th of July, 2022 at St Aloysius College (Autonomous) Mangalore.

350 students from St Aloysius

group of institutions, Bhramavar attended the campus drive. Apart

60 Veez Illustrated Weekly

pre-placement talk, as part of the placement process, Amazon conducted 4 rounds of interview to source the best of the best talent to join the company. from students, the drive also consisted of about 100 professions applying for the open positions at Amazon.

The session began with the preplacement talk at 9.45 AM. Mr Vivin Dias and Mr Neil from Amazon, conducted the pre-placement talk.

Mr Vivin gave detailed information about the company, the job profiles, compensation benefits and contract information to the candidates. Post

This placement drive is a part of St Aloysius College’s initiative to promote multiple employment opportunities among the community of Mangalore. The placement team of St Aloysius College supported by the Principal, Rev Dr Praveen Martis and the placement coordinators, Ms Flona Soans and Ms Kavitha V V aspire to conduct many such drives to provide employment opportunities to the students of the city.

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Today the weather is very pleasant, And I'm happily flapping in the air like a pheasant, Also when I fly down to roost, I shall down a mug full of that delightful energizer called 'Boost'.

Though all is still as there's no breeze, I know not why from time to time I sneeze, However, once in a while I suffer from a wheeze, Then I relax and listen to the songs of yesteryear by the B Gees.

Outside our balcony there are a few fully grown trees, On one of which is a hive full of buzzing bees, But in our mini garden flitting around are many fleas, They think our place is like the wide open seas.

-Franklin Randolph Misquith

Konkani Natak Sabha®

will conduct various competition for the Konkani Catholic community of Mangalore and Udupi. After a long interval of renovation of the Don Bosco Hall, Mangalore.

Competitions includes Singing, Elocution, Poetry recitation, Fancy dress, Dance, Voviyo and verse (Tradional roce and wedding cultural songs) and Short play competition.

Unlike usual Inter-Parish competition, this year it will be an open entry competition. There will

62 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Konkani Natak Sabha since decades is encouraging the young and energetic talents in and around Mangalore and gives a stage for exhibiting the hidden talents of the community to grow.

Konkani Natak Sabha is expecting a and huge number of participants, generally in all the categories and particularly in open to all singing competition, that is going to be held in Udupi in two rounds, for the first time in the history of Konkani Natak Sabha.

Konkani Natak Sabha Solicits whole hearted support from all our wellwisher’s donors and all Konkani loving people.

be no group category competition in Singing, Dance and Fancy dress this time, Only Solo and Duet category competitions will be held.

Singing Competion will be held in three round, first round audition, second round with selected participants from both Mangalore and Udupi will enter grand finale, which will be held at Don Bosco Hall, with a grand celebration hosted by Konkani Natak Sabha.

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Tribute to Dr A Shridhar

The Management & Staff of St Aloysius College organised a condolence meeting in honour of Dr

A Shridhar, former Professor of Physics, St Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangaluru, who passed away on July 11th 2022. Mr

63 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Lawrence Pinto, HOD of Physics department recalled his services as a great teacher to the students. Rev. Fr Praveen Martis SJ, Principal of the College read the condolence message recalling his administrative support in various capacities in the College.

Dr A Shridhar joined St Aloysius College as a lecturer in the year 1978. He served as the Dean of Physical Sciences and HOD of Department of Physics from 2005 till 2015. He was the resident of Pragathi Colony, Bejai, Mangaluru.

Dr Shridhar did his Master Degree at University of Mysore and PhD from Mangalore University in the subject of Nuclear Physics under the guidance of Dr. N. Lingappa in the

year 1986 on the topic “A Study of Volume Integrals of Imaginary Part of Optical Model Potentials for Composite Particles”.

He is an excellent teacher and Author of Text books. He is popular among the students for his calm and cool temperament.

He served as the coordinator of PG Physics from the year 2012 to 2015.

His great planning in the design of laboratories of UG and PG Physics departments will be ever remembered by his colleagues.

After his superannuation, he continued to teach at the St Aloysius Pre University College for about 4 years hence completing 4 decades of College teaching.

He served the Institution for 37 long years. He has left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of so many young and old students who were taught by him and interacted with him.

He is survived by his wife and two children.

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Milagres

Central

School, MangaluruInvestiture

Ceremony 2022-23

Investiture Ceremony and Club Inauguration is conducted on 13th of July 2022 in Milagres Central School, Mangaluru. The new cabinet with the Head boy Aboobaker Ahmed Aaquib, Head Girl Aysha Haneena and with 14 cabinet ministers and deputies formed for the year 2022-23.

Rev. Fr Michael Santhumayor, Director of Milagres Central School, was invited as the guest of the ceremony. The Progamme started with the march-past by the elected cabinet members. Cabinet members

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received their badges and slashes by the chief Guest and the School Principal. Principal confer the oath of cabinet to the cabinet members.

Guest of Ceremony Rev. Fr Michael Santhumayor congratulated all the elected cabinet members. He also expressed his views about the leader that each one with the good behavior is a good leader. Followed by the guest speech various clubs were inaugurated by the guest and

the principal. The programme was concluded by the principal’s message.

A short cultural programme was presented by the students.

The School Principal Rev. Fr. Uday Fernandes , staff members, PTA members and the students were present for this programme. The programme was hosted by Fariha and Safreena of grade 10th

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