English Weekly
Vol: 1 No: 8
February 24, 2022
Principal, Writer, Historian, Dramatist, Poet....
Dr. Eugene DSouza, Boliye
Hindutva activists taking advantage of Christians!
Last week was a very bad week for
against minorities and spend their
Christians in Karnataka.
money on these goondas to harrass
Hindutva
activists along with the moral
minorities,
support
Christians.
from
Karnataka
i.e.,
Muslims
They
are
and
working
Government demolished 2 Christian
towards their hidden agenda, a
prayer centers overnight. Nobody
hidden goal to make India one
knows who gave them the power
nation, oney party and one religion.
todo so. If something was wrong or illegal, there are legal departments
Some Congress MLAs are joining by
to look over these issues, but here
taking money from Hindutva outfits
these goondas took law into their
and cheat the people who elected
own hands and destroyed these
them as Congress MLA’s. BJP has
prayer centers.
lots of money to bribe these backboneless politicians.
There
This should not happen in the
should be a law to avoid politicians
largest democratic country in the
jumping one party to other like
world – India.
monkey jumping on the trees
It looks like
democracy is just on the papers.
recklessly
and
doing
Now central as state government
business in the real world.
monkey
gave these Hindutva goondas full license to harrass minorities as they
Politicians become so selfish and
want.
money makers; they do not have any values in life. They are making
Slowly
their
fundamentalism
is
India a lawless nation!
spreading all over the nation. Many politicians
do
the
same
thing
Dr. Austin Prabhu, Editor
2 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Principal, Writer, Historian, Dramatist, Poet....
Dr. Eugene Dsouza, Boliye
1. Date of birth: 6 August 1946. Father: Late Joseph D’Souza, Mother Severine D’Souza. First among 6 children (5 boys one girl). 2. Higher Primary Education in Church Aided Higher Primary School, Moodubelle. Eighth standard in St. Lawrence High School, Moodubelle. 9th to PUC in St. Aloysius College, Mangalore. 3. Went to Mumbai in 1966 and worked in Metro Theatre.
4. Stayed at St. Lawrence Association at Byculla. Studied in K.C. College, Churchgate as morning college student. After completing Inter continued BA course with History as the main subject. Was inspired and encouraged by Prof. V. Mahadevan who became by idol and motivator. Recently when I went to Mumbai, I had an opportunity to meet him at his residence at Vakola, Santacruz,
3 Veez Illustrated Weekly
4 Veez Illustrated Weekly
5 Veez Illustrated Weekly
6 Veez Illustrated Weekly
7 Veez Illustrated Weekly
8 Veez Illustrated Weekly
9 Veez Illustrated Weekly
10 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Mumbai. Though in 90s, he could recall my association with him. 5. Was interested in taking up teaching profession since 11 Veez Illustrated Weekly
childhood. Dream of becoming a teacher was realized when joined St. Theresa High School, Girgaon, Mumbai as teacher in 1971 after graduation. 6. Was not satisfied of being a schoolteacher. Wanted to go for
higher studies and join a college as lecturer. 7. Did Post-graduate studies (MA) in History through the Mumbai University attending lectures at the Elphinstone College, Mumbai
12 Veez Illustrated Weekly
8. After completing two years of Post Graduate studies and acquiring MA degree in History joined Patkar College, Goregaon as History Lecturer in 1973.
9. One year later, in 1974 joined as a lecturer in History in VPM’s K.G. Joshi College of Arts and N.G. Bedekar College of Commerce, Thane with the recommendation of my college teacher Prof. V. Mahadevan. Later promoted as Reader and Head of the Department of History. 10. Having dreamt of doing research in 1981 registered for Ph.D. degree at the Heras Institute of Indian History and Culture at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai under the guidance of Dr. A. Cherian, Head of
13 Veez Illustrated Weekly
the Department of History at Wilson College, Grant Road, Mumbai. The topic of research was “William Hornby-Governor of Bombay (1771-1784)”. Completed doing research and writing thesis by 1986 and acquired the Ph.D. degree in December 1986. Was the first person from Moodubelle to acquire Ph.D. degree. 11. While serving in the Arts and Commerce College, Thane took up various responsibilities including: 12. Post Graduate Teaching: (a) RK Taleraj College, Ulhasnagar, Thane Dist. From 1982 to 2005 (b)
Department of History, Mumbai University from 2002 to 2005 13. Co-opted as the Member of the M. Phil. Committee in the Department of History, Mumbai University 14. Recognized as the Guide by the Mumbai University for Ph. D. students through St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai 15. Guided successfully Four Students for Ph. D. degree 16. Member of the Board of Studies in History and Archaeology of the Mumbai University for two
14 Veez Illustrated Weekly
terms 1992-95 and from 1995 to 2000 17. Member of the Arts Faculty of Mumbai University from 1995 to 2000 18. Convener of the Committee to draft syllabus in History Paper III, History of Europe (1789 – 1919) for MA Part I 19. Administrative Experience: Served as the Junior College in Charge for Two years in VPM’s Arts and Commerce College, Thane from 1991-1993 20. Worked as Chairman of
Timetable Committee, Gymkhana Committee, Examination Committee and Discipline Committee 21. Life Member of Indian History Congress 22. Served as a subject expert of the Selection and Placement Committee of Mumbai University 23. Research Papers Presented at the Indian History Congress: a. Political Activities of Christa Seva Sangh, Poona. Presented at the 59th Indian History Congress held at Patiala, Punjab in December 1998.
15 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Excerpts of this paper were published in the Times of India, dated 4th January 1999. b. Nazi Propaganda in India. Presented at the 60th Indian History Congress held at Calicut in December 1999. This paper was published in the Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, Diamond Jubilee (60th) Session, Calicut, 1999, pp. 783-795. Also published in Social Scientist Volume 28, Numbers 5-6, May-June 2000, pp.76-90. c. Indian Indentured Labour in
Fiji. Presented at the 61st Indian History Congress held at Kolkota in December 2000-2001. Published in the Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 61st Session, Kolkota, 2000-2001, pp.1071-1079. d. Background of Indian Colonization of German East Africa (Tanganyika). Presented at the 62nd Indian History Congress held at Bhopal in December 2001. Published in the Proceedings of the
16 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Indian History Congress, 62nd Session, Bhopal, 2001, pp.838-850. 24. Other Published Research Papers: (a) Father Verrier Elwin – A Christian Disciple of Mahatma Gandhi (Part I): Published in INDICA, Research Journal of the Heras Institute, Volume 36, Number 2 (September 1999), pp. 89-102. (b) Father Verrier Elwin – A Christian Disciple of Mahatma Gandhi (Part II) Published in INDICA, Research Journal of the Heras Institute, Volume 37, Number 1 (March 2000), pp. 49-62. (c) Portuguese-Maratha-British Designs on the Island of Salsette. Published in the Platinum Jubilee Volume of INDICA 2001, pp.213220. (d) V. D. Savarkar’s Tryst with Thane, Published in the Yuvashilp, College Magazine of Joshi-Bedekar College, Thane, pp.72-74. 25. Textbooks for Junior and Degree Colleges: a. History of Ancient and Medieval India (XI Std) b. History of Modern India (XII Std.)
c. Landmarks in World History (FYBA) d. Ancient India (SYBA) e. History of Asia (SYBA) f. Medieval India (TYBA) g. Modern India (TYBA) h. Contemporary World (TYBA) 26. Study Material for the Institute of Distance Education Mumbai University: (a) Indian National Movement (b)Social and Economic History of Ancient India (c) History of Europe (1789-1945) 27. Was asked by the then Principal Mulgaonkar to undergo NCC training in 1976. As there was a vacancy for NCC (Naval Wing) officer. Took up this opportunity and went for Basic and Divisional Training at INS Mandovi in Goa and after 12 weeks of training proceeded to INS Venduruthy, Cochin for specialized training for four weeks and was Commissioned as NCC (Naval Wing) Officer in 1976. Served as NCC Officer in VPM’s Arts and Commerce College for 22 years and retired from NCC in 1998 with the Rank of Lt. Commander. 28. As there was a vacancy for the post of Principal in the Om Vidyalankar Sanstha’s Asmitha College of Arts and Commerce for
17 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Women, Vikhroli East, Mumbai on the recommendation of the former principal of VPM’s Arts and Commerce College, Thane, Principal P.Y. Olatikar who was the advisor to the Asmitha College, joined the college as principal and served from January 2005 to August 2006. 29. After retirement from the Asmitha College in 2006, in 2008 returned to native village, Moodubelle in 2008 to take care of aged mother who is presently 94 years old. 30. Involved in various activities including being the member of the Lions Club, Moodubelle of which was president for one term. 31. Continued writing articles for Daijiworld.com and served as Media Coordinator of Bellevision.com attending programmes and covering news for these webportals. Had written articles on historical topics and historical places. Travelogue was one of the favourite columns. Had an opportunity to visit various parts of North India including Yamunothri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinaththe Four Dhams which are considered holy by the Hindus and other places of interest. Had an
opportunity to visit Dubai and Muscat and went on a European Tour through the Kesari Tour Management and has written series of articles with pictures in Bellevision.com. 32. Served as Founder Principal of St. Lawrence College, Moodubelle from 2012-2013. 33. Had an interest in reading and writing in Konkani periodicals since early childhood. Later, contributed Stories, Articles and Poems in Konakni weeklies, fortnightlies such as- Jezu Rai, Raknno, Poinnari, Mithr, Jhelo, Kannik, Vavryadancho Thallo, etc. 34. Books written in Konkani: 1. Tem Rodlem (1966)-Veronica Prakashan, Mumbai (b) Mogacha Sodner (1967)-Veronica Prakashan, Mumbai (c) Andkaranthlo Awaz (1968) – Published by Stany Rodrigues, Mumbai (d) Chondravoilem Mod (1968)-Konkan Premi Prakashan, Mumbai (e) Putha Khatir (1969) (e) Jivithacho Thallo (1970)- Konkan Premi Prakashan, Mumbai (f) Mrithyuchi Savli (1970)Konkan Premi Prakashan, Mumbai (g) Swapon Khare Zalem (1973)Sallak Prakashan, Mangalore (h) Lognacho Mog(1974) – Co-
18 Veez Illustrated Weekly
authored with three others-Sallak Prakashan, Mangalore (i) Daar Ugthem Zalem (1975)-Sallak Prakashan, Mangalore 35. Lipullo Chondr-Jhelo, Serial Novel with 25 chapters published from 15 February 1970 to 1 March 1971 36. Was interested in plays. Used to go to see ‘Bayalatas’ in neighboring villages. Go for School Day dramas along with friends to other schools. Used to purchase ‘Ondane Maale’ booklets and enact plays at home gathering neighbourhood children. 37. Tried to write plays when grew up. These included: (a) Jean ValjinMoodubelle-28-4-1963 (b) Rogthachem Khoth-Mumbai-21-41968; Belman-10-5-1970; Gulf- 3&4 Nov 1973(c) Boroinnar –Mumbai 22-1969 (d) Girl Friend –Mumbai-111-1970; Jivithachi SaanzMoodubelle 21-4-2019. 38. While in Mumbai came in contact with famous stage artist and director Stany Thia Pinto and his actress wife Mrs. Jane Pinto. Stany Thia Pinto directed all three plays staged in St. Mary’s Hall, Mazgaon‘Rogthachem Khoth”, ‘Boroinnar’ and ‘Girl Friend’. Mrs. Jane Pinto
acted in all three of them. 39. Met my late wife Benny Sequeira of Madanthyar under curious circumstances. She had written a letter of appreciation after reading my novel “Chondravoilem Mod”. Came to know later that she was the niece of Francis Saldanha who was working in the office of KC College where I was a student. His other brother John was working in the Library of the College. I met her for the first time along with Francis Saldanha during the Golden Jubilee celebration of St. Lawrence Association, Byculla where I was residing as a member. I had presented a skit on this occasion. 40. Incidentally I was fortunate to participate in the Centenary Celebration of St. Lawrence Association as one of the chief guests along with Dr. Vincent Alvapresently Principal of the Milagres College, Kallianpur. 41. As the acquaintance of Benny gradually developed and as we liked each other we decided to make our lives together and got married on 21 February 1971. 42. Have two children Juliana and Deepak both of whom have married and settled down in Mumbai.
19 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Juliana married Suhael and has a son named Joshua. Deepak married Gloria and had a daughter named Dia. 43. When I was busy with teaching and college and NCC activities Benny took care of the home and children. Looked after their studies and also did social work as the Unit and Zonal leader in the Infant Jesus Parish, Dombivli. 44. She used to participate in various church activities. Used to bring flowers from Dadar flower Market on festive occasions and decorate the main altar. 45. After my retirement Benny accompanied me to native place and gave me all support in all my activities. 46. Gradually Benny’s health began to deteriorate. She was diagnosed with lung ailment due to allergic reaction to dust and pollen. Though she underwent treatment in KMC Hospital Manipal, her health condition could not improve and unfortunately, she passed away on 25 May 2020, just nine months prior to the completion of 50 years of our wedding, leaving a big void in my life. 47. Continue to live with my
mother and look after her needs. Continue as the coordinator of Bellevision.com. 48. Presently member of the Board of Directors of Sampada of Udupi Diocese and continue as the member of the Lions Club of Moodubelle. Articles with pictures published in the web-portal ‘daijiworld.com’ a. Akbar the Great-A Liberal Emperor and Statesman b. Haji Malang Gad-Destination for Pilgrimage and Adventure c. Sri Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji –A Seer with Global Vision d. Sri Madhvacharya - Founder of the Ashta Mathas e. Bassein Fort - Once the Portuguese Pride, Now in Ruins f. Mumbai: Afghan Church - War Memorial with a Difference g. Mumbai: Lohagad Fort Destination for Trekkers h. Elephanta Island - The Abode of Shiva i. Raigad Fort - Where History and Nature Meet j. Western Ghats - God's Gift of Nature k. Mumbai: Lohagad Fort Destination for Trekkers
20 Veez Illustrated Weekly
l. Mangalore: Depending on Rubber as a Cash Crop - How Fruitful? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mangaluru's Blue-eyed Dr.Edmond gets 'Healthcare 40 under 40' award.
The young medical profession of
Kodial or Kudla - a Mecca of Speciality Health Care in this region is impressed to know Dr. Edmond Fernandes, Founder, CHD Group – a public health organization holding UNECOSOC special consultative status, has been awarded the 'Healthcare 40 under 40' award by Businessworld India. A robust jury chaired by Dr. Velumani, Creator, Thyrocare and other members selected the awardees after a stringent process. The accomplished youthful medical Dr. Edmond Fernandes has been a front-line healthcare hero who worked tirelessly leading CHD Group & the team into multiple
21 Veez Illustrated Weekly
public health initiatives since the March 2020 lockdown going to the fields and engaging with communities in providing various forms of public health interventions engaged in public service and community safety. Over 50,000 farmers and their families across the country and a total of over 4,26,000 people have been impacted in a meaningful way thanks to the intervention of CHD Group working along with donors and front-line contributors. Door-step food ration,
occupational health safety initiatives and COVID-19 appropriate behaviour and outcomes were pioneered among communities across the country. A rare to find knowledgeable medical specialist practicing at Falnir Clinic in Mangaluru, Dr. Edmond Fernandes is a kind, approachable, ready to listen, contribute and lead, a down to earth simple and understanding, easy to communicate with human here in our midst. Dr Fernandes is a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council in Washington DC and a Consultant to
22 Veez Illustrated Weekly
the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for the Asia and the Pacific Region at Bangkok and has worked extensively in community empowerment programs in and around the country and other nations besides the public health systems. He is sought after across the country & around the globe as a Disaster Health expert and a global health leader. Founder CHD Group : CHD Group is a public health organization established in 2014 and now
working with different governments, diplomatic missions, United Nation agencies, Corporate and academic institutes of excellence. Despite growing at a meteoric pace, CHD Group led by Dr. Edmond Fernandes has chosen to keep their head-office in Mangalore, Karnataka so that over the years greater employment, sustainability and opportunities can be brought to Mangalore city and her people. CHD Group has also been incubating Mission ICU to support
23 Veez Illustrated Weekly
India’s critical infrastructure and has now installed over 100 ICU beds across 10 District Hospitals of India. CHD Group since its inception in 2014 has impacted over 2 million lives across the country through direct community impact and continues to champion multipronged public healthcare in many last mile places of the country. CHD Group has received strong support from Corporate India under the Corporate Social Responsibility programmes to build the nation as many corporate leaders opine that Dr. Edmond and team bring in novel solutions with strong quality that
has far reaching sustainability.
impact
in
This year, CHD Group has also rolled out the Edward & Cynthia Institute of Public Health formally & provides free skill development training to rural poor students as Home Health Aides and General Duty Assistants and helps them gain livelihood for their families. Hundreds of rural poor boys and girls are going through life transforming opportunities thanks to the interventions from CHD Group. The work carried out by CHD Group for community development and
24 Veez Illustrated Weekly
public service has been appreciated from all the corners of the Government, United Nations and across many countries. The work carried out by CHD Group in Aspirational Districts and high priorities districts in reducing the burden of malnutrition, in shaping primary care through inclusive models is now well-known since thousands and thousands have benefitted and their lives permanently transformed. CHD Group also responds to other humanitarian emergencies such as
floods, earthquakes, cyclones etc and supports in medical relief. Overview: Dr Edmond Fernandes, is a pleasant personality whose admired doings are often seen in electronic and print media - a media darling, who is always followed by many around the country. It is surely his personality and a deeply intense captivating sincerity, with a strong direction that wows all. Over the years in medical colleges and now as a fullfledged medical doctor, policy
25 Veez Illustrated Weekly
strategist, head of India’s leading public health NGO, 'CHD Group Center for Health and Development', in Mangaluru, he is distinctly perceived as a leader of promise, who will one day make an indelible mark already well ahead. This is the hope and prediction of many great and ordinary people who know him. The smile of many serves a unique stature. Dr. Edmond Fernandes being a September boy born on 3rd September 1990 has 3 books to his credit till now. Young Edmond's early days were in Mumbai, his schooling was at the
prestigious Salesian Don Bosco School, Matunga. He came to Mangaluru, where his roots originally are, his parents – Edward & Cynthia Fernandes really are to be admired for their exemplary support to their only child all the way. He primarily decided to take up medicine at the well-known historic Fr. Muller's Medical College and Hospital. After his M.B.B.S., he earned MD- ( Doctor of Medicine) Community Medicine from Yenepoya Univesity; and PGDipPHSM (Public Health Service Management). Apart from all these achievements, his areas of Social
26 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Interests are Writing, Leadership, Music, Driving and Football. Branded long back By 'The Times of India' as “A Leader in the Making.” Recognized by Mangalore Media as “Mangalorean Whizkid”: While he was 21, seeking the paths of glory as a Medico-writer was recognized as arguably among the youngest medical student to have ever delivered a guest session at South India Level Research Conference. Dr. Ed, as he is affectionately known, is now recognised globally as
Founder & CEO, CHD Group, with several assignments of exclusive nature. In 2017 he was selected a Legislative Fellow by the US Government which was a very prestigious programme as he was the only person from Karnataka and the only doctor from India to make it for the Fall 2017 fellowship representing India at Washington DC. In a message after landing from the US amidst his busy schedule back in 2017, Dr. Edmond had this to say to his admirers and the press at home, "Introspecting on India's rich civilization while on US soil; let me tell you today, there is no place
27 Veez Illustrated Weekly
as special on earth as is this Saffron, white and green republic that is India. We are so ancient yet so humble, so brilliant yet so inclusive, so diverse yet so incredible.....India, my India...how great thou art."......his love, dedication and commitment to India is superlative. Maybe it will inspire many in time to come, to work for possible durable change. Let us take a bird's eye view into a few of his involvements-
Through advocacy, Dr. Edmond Fernandes argued that the doctors’ white coats must be banned in India by writing in the British Medical Journal. He and CHD Group were instrumental in ensuring seat belt was enforced in Mangalore way back in 2015. From a policy standpoint, CHD Group now works on the social health model, which is aiming at eradicating certain diseases, building breakthrough transformation through the Institute CHD Group Impact: of Public Health and permanently ensuing livelihood for those who CHD Group has worked in more have no opportunity to shine. than 12 states of India, 30 plus CHD Group has plans to role out US districts, 6800 plus villages and has Chapter, European Chapter and impacted over 2 million lives in the African Chapter over the coming field of public health, road safety, years to build an inclusive world women’s health, child nutrition, skill which includes all and leave no one development, disaster risk behind. reduction, climate action and -Adapted for VEEZ By : primary health care. Ivan Saldanha Shet ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28 Veez Illustrated Weekly
29 Veez Illustrated Weekly
30 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Colonialism in Mangalore story”, specifically researched for the benefit of residents of the two areas, and more importantly, for the diaspora of the two communities that are scattered internationally. Our previous articles have received feedback from individuals with varying backgrounds -- academics and non-academics alike -- who reside in India and far from her shores, including Portugal. At the outset, we apologize to those who may consider portions of this presentation basic information. Philomena Lawrence Gilbert Lawrence Authors: Insights into Colonial Goa For details about the book and authors click: Insights into Colonial Goa. Commonly-held beliefs lend credence to two misconceptions about the connection between the two coastal regions of Mangalore and Goa – primarily, that Goans migrated to Mangalore to escape the dreaded Inquisition in Goa; secondly, that the British were the only European power to rule Mangalore. The following is an attempt to “present the rest of the
India’s Western Coastline To facilitate learning about the history of the Konkan-Canara region, it would be helpful to review the area’s geography. The west coast of India is a comparatively narrow strip of land sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. These two geographical features dictate the terrain, economy, and weather patterns. Readers who are not familiar with this terrain would be well advised to refer to a map of India. The country’s west coastline is divided into three regions: the Konkan coast north of Goa; the
31 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Canara coast, which covers coastal Karnataka, and the Malabar or Coromandel Coast, which extends to the tip of the Indian landmass. For practical purposes, the Konkan coast stretches from Daman to Goa and is under the jurisdiction of Maharashtra and Goa, while the Canara and Malabar coastlines are within the states of Karnataka and Kerala, respectively. Goa occupies the South Konkan coastal region, while Mangalore is 300 Km (180 miles) in the South Canara region. Rulers considered both these coastal areas valuable real-estate because they included sheltered inland ports. The areas of the west coast share similarities in terms of geography, soil, and weather – all controlled by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. The region is blessed with several, wide-spread rivers that meander lazily (except during the monsoon season) into a bay. The unique landscape is ideal for creating inland sheltered ports that were suitable for medium size boats, dhows, junks, and caravels, which arrived in later years. As the rivers travel, they carry silt from the upland Ghats and deposit it along the lowland fields, providing them with renewed fertile soil. Unfortunately the silt also has a negative impact on inland ports.
The rivers also attract fish-eating birds and those that breed on its banks. Both regions have subtropical forests that benefit from the moisture-laden monsoon clouds, which produce waterfalls, diverse environments, and unique habitats for several species of plants, birds, reptiles, and insects. The residents of India’s west coast are hostage to the monsoons, which drench the coastline from June to September and dump a total of about 100 inches of rain in a single season. The downpours are welcomed, especially by the farmers, as they lower the often unbearably hot temperatures by five to ten degrees. Along the west coast of India, the seasons are hot (April, May), wet (June-September), and perfect (October-March). Presently, the communities residing in the Konkan–Canara regions share many similar traits. Both are multicultural and multi-lingual; each community is deeply rooted in its own religion and reveres its places of worship but also exhibits mutual respect for other’s values and practices. To use an American expression, Goans and Mangaloreans are “connected at the hip.” However, the two territories also practice a varied lifestyle and economy, which are,
32 Veez Illustrated Weekly
ironically, complimentary. Hence the two communities and governments have much to learn for each another. Farming on the west coastal plains is not merely an occupation; it was a way of life. Every facet of the labor-intensive occupation demanded patience, respect for the land, and steadfast commitment to producing a bountiful harvest. The chores require planting the paddy on time and consistently maintaining the fields so that water was in the right place, at the right time, and in right amounts, even as the dark clouds rolled in, foretelling an eerie storm. The farmers in the Konkan-Canara-Malabar region designed an ingenious contraption to protect themselves from the elements, especially the torrential rains. They braid the ubiquitous and abundant palm leaves into an upper body cover called condo. It allows the wearers to view their surroundings, move freely, and stay relatively dry. During the monsoons, the landscape is dotted with farmers wearing their condos while diligently tending to the sprouting emeraldgreen paddy shoots. Any unusually dry or wet year, as well as an early or late onset of rains can lead to a poor crop. The farmers know their fellow villagers, share advice, and can be depended on to help when
assistance is needed, just as their ancestors did for centuries. Fortunately, change comes slowly to some of these villagers and villages. The pastoral scenery would make a perfect Monet Impressionist-style painting, one designed by the Maker! Even as the fierce lightning strikes continue and palm trees sway, the birds soar against the dark sky. In time, the trade winds die down, the sky brightens, and a rainbow appears. The west coast of India in the postmonsoon season would also make the perfect location for the modern aerial drone photography and for tourists seeking excitement. Start of Konkan Migration In the 14th century, Goa and Mangalore were part of the powerful Vijayanagar Empire, which had Hampi as its capital. In the early 15th century (1429), Goa was conquered by the Bahmani kingdom, and since then fought over and flipped every few years between Hampi and Bahmani kings. This created waves of war refugees on which were added refugees from other natural disasters. It was natural to seek refuge to greener and safer regions, especially in the land of its former ruler, who provided the war refugees with land grants and other facilities to help with resettlement. This series of
33 Veez Illustrated Weekly
events indicates that Goan migration began long before the arrival of the Iberians in Goa in 1510. Iberians on India’s west coast The first contact between the Iberians and the people of Canara occurred in 1498 as a result of the Voyage of Discovery, when Vasco da Gama, en-route to Calicut, landed on a group of islands near Mangalore, which were later christened St. Mary’s Islands. Over time, the Lusitanian used Anjediva Island, located near Goa, as a final refueling stop prior to heading west. The Iberians in their stopover on west coast received a warm welcome from the kings of Vijayanagar; and through their seacaptain Timoja, invited Alfonzo Albuquerque to invade Goa in 1510. The military victory relieved the Hampi raya of the human and financial cost of defending its port at Ella. In addition, control over the port of Goa guaranteed the transportation of the cavalry horses from the Mideast to the Hindu territory while depriving the Deccan’s Muslim sultanates of that military resource. Iberia went on to acquire about 40 coastal toeholds or feittoria along the Indian Ocean. Each area included a fort, which was equipped
with a garrison, cannons, storage space, and living quarters for the military personnel and some surrounding territory. Besides securing a toehold in Goa in the 16th century, Iberia also acquired Mangalore (1526) and Bassein (1534) along the Indian Ocean and used them as trading centers. Young Iberian sailors and soldiers presented with a “one way ticket to paradise” sailed out east to live the good life in the outposts, away from nagging relatives. Yet only few of them knew only 50 percent of the recruits lived to return home to Europe after the three-year tour of duty. About 20 percent died in transit, casualties of ship disasters, scurvy and other ailments, while others died from tropical illnesses as well as while fighting for flag and country. The frequent skirmishes between Hampi and Bijapur continued after 1510 but now became BijapurIberian battles. By their very nature, wars trigger destruction of life and property; if they are accompanied by a siege, wars also result in the starvation of the military and local population. In the 16th century, it is likely that Goans preferred to relocate to Mangalore instead of Bassein, also an Iberian outpost. This choice was probably because the Mangalorean language was a
34 Veez Illustrated Weekly
dialect of Konkani, while Bassein’s speech was a dialect of Marathi. Some Goans (known as Bardeshkars) settled east of the Ghats in non-Iberian regions beyond Goa, but most leap-frogged from South Konkan to South Canara, another Iberian outpost. It was therefore highly unlikely that the Inquisition per se was a reason for Goans to move to Mangalore as that region was also a part of Portugal’s Estado-da-India and would have been impacted by the Inquisition, which was introduced to the eastern empire in 1560. It has been firmly established that the GSB (Goud Saraswat Brahmins) in Mangalore (Hindu and Catholic) are migrants from Goa because their historical migration placed their final destination in Gopakapatnam / Goa, where they built and continue to maintain their ancestral temples and shrines to their ancestors. Mangalorean Catholics are among the early diaspora of Goan Catholics, who migrated and settled in a very confined region of South Canara. There were undoubtedly many nonBrahmin Goans who also left Goa and made their way to several surrounding regions, including Canara. It goes without saying that there are likely many Christians in Mangalore that have no GSB or
Goan connections. Additionally, based on the thriving trade between India and the Middle East, it is very likely that Syrian Christians, too, landed along entire length of the west coast of India. It is interesting to note that in the first century CE, the apostles Thomas and Bartholomew had preached in the Malabar and Canara-Konkan region respectively. It has been historically established that long before the Portuguese traveled to India, the Pope had directly appointed Catholic bishops to shepherd the Syro-Malabar Catholics of the Konkan-Canara-Malabar coastline. In conclusion, despite common beliefs and published articles, the Goan migration to Mangalore was less likely linked to the Inquisition for the simple, yet forgotten, reason that between the 16th and 18th centuries, Mangalore was an Iberian territory, where the Inquisition was practiced. The Mangalorean diaspora of Goans comprises Hindus and Catholics, most (but not all) of who are GSBs. Alan Machado, a historian, author, and renowned expert on Mangalorean and Goan Catholics, estimates that 95 percent of Mangalorean GSBs were originally Goans. Goan migration from the 16th to 18th centuries makes for interesting reading. (Next week,,,,,)
35 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Cancer : Absolute Faith Wins Absolutely lengthy yet it is advisable to read the full article with little patience especially
the
last
few
pages.
Patience always rebounds, pays dividends. A disease called Cancer is thought to be the great leveller. Whether someone is Indian or an African or American or Icelander Cancer will bring death within its stipulated By Antony Cony D Souza
time. Tangibility of this article is to
By this article I am offering my Loving Tributes to our Konkani Legend late Wilfy Rebimbus who passed away on this day, March 9th 2010, to my uncle late Victor Rodrigues and to all those who died due to this unfortunate disease. You may find this article a bit
bring in focus on Chemotherapy and not Cancer alone. Dr. Hardin B. Jones former Professor of Medical Physics and Physiology at the University of California, studied the life expectancy of cancer patients for more than 25 years to conclude that “Chemotherapy Kills People, Not Cancer’. It does more harm than good.
36 Veez Illustrated Weekly
People
who
accepted
chemotherapy
die
within
three
years of diagnosis, a large number dies immediately after a few weeks.
including Nobel prize winner Sir MacFarlane Burnet made know that in the normal body hundreds of potential cancer cells appear every
Dr. Hardin B. Jones From of his research he declared that
at
worst
98
present
of
conventional cancer treatments not only fail miserably but also almost guaranteed to make cancer patients more patient and sicker; ineffective in 97% of the cases. The patients who
refused
chemotherapy
treatment live, on average, 12 ½ years longer than patients who take the
treatment.
His
research,
published in the New York Academy of Science.
day. These defective, mutated cells are usually destroyed by the normal immune system and never cause a problem. Cancer only gets started when a failing immune system begins to allow abnormal cells to slip by without triggering an attack on them. In the most basic terms, Cancer refers to cells that grow out-ofcontrol and invade other tissues. Cells may become cancerous due to the accumulation of defects, or mutations, in their DNA. Certain
Cancer and Its Causes: Most legitimate researchers,
inherited
genetic
defects
example,
BRCA1
and
mutations)
37 Veez Illustrated Weekly
and
(for
BRCA2
infections
can
increase
the
risk
of
cancer.
in the U.S. At that time people relied
Environmental factors (for example,
more on whole foods, unrefined
air pollution, , asbestos, and arsenic
and generally in their original form.
just to name few) and poor lifestyle choices—
eating
a
poor
diet,
inactivity, obesity, heavy alcohol use, tobacco use including smoking, and exposure to chemicals and toxins
are
all
associated
with
damage DNA and lead to greater cancer risk.
marked organic, they are sprayed. What do you think happens with all tons
a greater and greater proportion of the American diet right after the First World War, first in the canning industry, which later developed into the food processing industry. This was when pasteurization, chemical additives,
If fruits and vegetables are not
those
Suddenly, processed foods became
of
military-grade
commercial pesticides sprayed onto the crops, poisons which cling to the plant? When it rains, the poison washes down into the soil, is taken up by the plant and becomes part of the plant. And we warn ourselves that ‘just wash the fruit before you eat it . This never washes out the poison but it alters human DNA. New Eating Styles, New Diseases: As we are aware, a hundred years
bleaching,
adulterating introduced
and
processes into
mass
other were food
production. The idea was to make food last on the shelves as long as possible. The way this was done was by removing the natural enzymes contained in the food, resulting in adulterated de-vitalized non-foods becoming the new standard. Enzymes are what determines a food’s value. As more and more sophisticated methods of removing enzymes
from
food
were
discovered, shelf life increased at the same cases of Cancer increased too.
ago, cancer was virtually unknown 38 Veez Illustrated Weekly
means toxic to cells. Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: treatment
that
chemicals
to
It
is
uses kill
a
drug
chemotherapy drugs disrupt the
powerful
way cancer cells grow and divide
fast-growing
cancer cells in the patients’ body. Chemotherapy,
Radiation
and
Surgery is most often used to treat cancer, since cancer cells grow and
but they also affect normal cells? One can’t say whether someone is for or against the chemotherapy but only we come up with those facts as
multiply much more quickly than
a matter of wisdom.
most cells in the body.
If Considering chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy
uses
anti-cancer
(cytotoxic) drugs to destroy cancer cells. Cancer includes leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Cytotoxic
Following points has to be taken into consideration: •
“chemotherapy is basically
39 Veez Illustrated Weekly
ineffective in the vast of majority
been documented for over a
of cases in which it is given.” –
decade, yet doctors still use
Ralph Moss, PhD
chemotherapy for these
•
•
•
“Cancer researchers, medical
tumors.” – Allen Levin, MD
journals, and the popular
UCSF The Healing of Cancer
media all have contributed to
Medical
a situation in which many
chemotherapy, radiation, targeted
people with common
treatments
malignancies are being
target a specific type of cancer cell)
treated with drugs not known
or immune suppressive drugs used
to be effective.” – Dr. Martin
to decrease the spread of cancer
Shapiro UCLA
throughout the body can also cause
“despite widespread use of
damage to healthy cells. Some
chemotherapies, breast cancer
“second
mortality has not changed in
separate from the initial cancer,
the last 70 years” – David
have been known to occur following
Greenberg, MD NEJM Mar
aggressive
“Many medical oncologists
however, researchers are producing
recommend chemotherapy for
drugs that cause less damage to
virtually any tumor, with a
healthy cells (for example, targeted
hopefulness undiscouraged by
therapy).
almost invariable failure.” – Albert Braverman •
treatment (drugs
with
designed
cancers”,
cancer
to
completely
treatments;
Chemotherapy Resistance:
MD Lancet
During Chemotherapy treatment,
“Most cancer patients in this
the most important term comes into
country die of chemotherapy.
realization
Chemotherapy does not
‘Chemotherapy Resistance’ or in
eliminate breast, colon, or
other words, the cancer cells are
lung cancers. This fact has
resisting
40 Veez Illustrated Weekly
at
the
critical
effects
time
of
is
the
chemotherapy. We must have heard
the drug across the cell wall stops
most of the time people saying
working. In certain cases the cancer
"cancer
failed”
cells may learn how to repair the
signaling end is near. This could be
DNA breaks caused by some anti-
because cells are resisting the drug
cancer drugs. Many a time a cancer
or
a cancer cell may produce
cells may develop a mechanism that
hundreds of copies of a particular
inactivates the drug. Research is
gene triggering overproduction of
underway all the time to investigate
protein that renders the anticancer
ways
drug ineffective. At times Cancer
preventing chemotherapy
cells may stop taking in the drugs
resistance. Let us only hope of the
because the protein that transports
best.
chemotherapy
41 Veez Illustrated Weekly
of
reducing
or
When
the
actress Lynda
the better treatment facilities in
Bellingham died from colon cancer
towns and not in the villages
in year 2014, her oncologist -
constituting 80% of its demography.
Professor Justin Stebbing - paid
Michael Coleman, professor at the
tribute to his patient. He said
London School of Hygiene and
"Through
she
Tropical Medicine, and one of the
emphasised that cancer care is not
lead authors of the study told TOI
just about killing the cancer and
that “one reason for the low survival
giving chemotherapy. It's about
rates
treating the whole patient, all of
equitable access to early diagnosis
their wishes, psychological, spiritual,
and optimal treatment is not yet
emotional as well as physical
available for all people in India.
her
illness
Cancer survival rate in India: Cancer survival rate in India is lowest in the world. There are more than 100 different types of cancer. A massive study of 26 million cancer patients over 15 years has shown
in
India
could
be
that
Some of the most advanced medical facilities in the world can be found in Mumbai (for example), but they are out of reach of the vast majority of the Indian remote population," he said.
that survival rates in the 10 most
Is There a Cure for Cancer?
prevalent types of cancer vary
True to the disease, the best answer
hugely across countries. Survival rates in India are quite low for most types of cancer, less than half of the advanced countries in many types. More surprising is the fact that survival rates in India are either stagnating, or inching up very slowly, despite India having some of
we can sum up in the words of immediate President of USA, Barak Obama who had said
“Despite
enormous effort and funding, no one cure has been found yet to eliminate cancer. In 2016, the United States announced a $1 billion investment into creating such a
42 Veez Illustrated Weekly
cure, named the “National Cancer
•
Moonshot”. The US invests more in healthcare than any other highincome nation in the world. Still, ‘costly’ diseases continue to rise in prevalence, resulting in a shorter life expectancy.
•
Article Summary: •
•
•
Chemotherapy and radiation have long been considered the gold standard for treating cancer, but it’s not because they have been proven to cure cancer. Chemotherapy is not selective − it kills healthy cells along with the cancer cells, which causes serious damage to the body. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of cancer cells that are slow-growing and are resistant to treatment. Chemotherapy does not kill off cancer stem cells. These cells then take up residence elsewhere where they regenerate treatment-resistant tumors.
•
•
•
Chemotherapy also impairs the immune system, which then disables it from removing cancerous cells from the body. This makes the patient more vulnerable to cancer coming back. Most oncologists only recommend chemo, radiation, and surgery and are unlikely to recommend alternative and complementary treatments. Good to seek 2nd and even 3rd opinions in order to compare the various protocols available. Percentage of cancer patients whose lives are predictably saved by chemotherapy – 3%. Conclusive evidence (majority of cancers) that chemotherapy has any positive influence on survival or quality of life – none. For the first time researchers looked at the numbers of cancer patients who died within 30 days of starting chemotherapy, which indicates that the medication is the cause of death, rather than the cancer.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------43 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Daiji Dubai at 22: Lifetime Achievement Award for Eric
Ozario, Literary for Clarence Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Feb 15: It was a day to remember for the group of Konkani writers who had initiated the forum called 'Daiji Dubai' back in 1999 with the intention of promoting Konkani language, culture and art. Founded under the leadership of Dayan D’Souza Mukamar with the support of four others, Walter Nandalike, founder of Daijiworld, Stany Nirude, Hemacharya (Stephan Mascarenhas), and Melvyn Rodrigues, today the forum consists of more than three dozen Konkani writers who reside in the UAE.
The 22nd anniversary celebration was organised at the Millennium Airport
44 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Hotel Dubai, Al Garoud ball room on Sunday February 13 from 11 am to
4:30 pm. The programme started with
45 Veez Illustrated Weekly
releasing of new title song of Daiji Dubai. Founder member Walter
Nandalike released the song in the presence of other founder members and past and current convenors of
46 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Daiji Dubai. The song was originally written by Robert Fernandes Udyavar and Rony D'Cunha, and modified by Glany Fernandes by visually covering
the journey of Daiji Dubai from last 21 years and beautifully sung by Vinay Lewis, Sabitha Mathias, Lydwin
47 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Cutinho, Zeena Pinto, Jeevan Vas and Anil Rodrigues for the wonderful music of Adrian Gomes. 48 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Convenor of Daiji Dubai Nanu Marol Thottam welcomed the gathering. In his welcome note he informed that it was a dream of Daiji Dubai to spend a
day with its well-wishers to thank them for helping the forum financially and by other means for the past 21 years without expecting anything in return and reposing faith in Daiji Dubai to work towards preserving and promoting the mother tongue Konkani. "The day has finally arrived," he said. Clarence Pinto Kaikamba, veteran of five decades in Konkani literature was awarded Daiji Literary Award 2020 along with a cash prize of Rs 75,000, memento, and citation. Clarence Pinto and his wife Ida Pinto were invited to the stage, flanked by a musical band and welcomed with a standing ovation from the audience. A brief video presentation was displayed on the literary journey of Clarence Pinto. Co-convenor Sunil Fernandes Kota read the citation, while convenor Nanu Marol presented the floral bouquets to both Clarence and Ida, founder member Walter Nandalike presented the
49 Veez Illustrated Weekly
citation, Joseph Mathias presented the memento and Leo D'Souza presented the cheque. In his thanksgiving address, Clarence Pinto expressed his deep gratitude to the Konkani speaking people in the UAE and all Konkani activists who
promote the language here. He also thanked the editors of Konkani magazines, associations, and his family who supported him unconditionally throughout his literary journey. He specially
50 Veez Illustrated Weekly
appreciated Daiji Dubai forum for choosing him for the coveted award. 'Jinnie Sotam', a collection of essays by founder member Dayan D’Souza, Mukamar was released by Walter Nandalike and Kannada writer Irshad Moodbidri. The Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed on 'Vishwa Konkani Kalarathn' Eric Ozario, Gurkaar of Maand Sobhann for his untiring and selfless service to develop Konkani culture, music, literature, dance and so on. Due to illness, he was unable to attend the event, and on his behalf his wife Joyce Ozario, daughter Dr Rashmi Fernandes and son-in-law Alwyn Fernandes received the honour. A brief video presentation was displayed on the journey of Eric Ozario. Treasurer Santhosh Perla read the citation. Convenor Nanu Marol presented the floral bouquet, founder member Walter Nandalike presented the citation, founder member and first convenor Dayan D'Souza handed over the shawl and traditionally prepared peta, Nelson Rodricks presented the momento and Benedict Pinto handed over a cheque of Rs one lac. In his virtual thanksgiving speech, Eric Ozario said, "People call me a fighter,
but today I am fighting against my illness. Due to my health, I could not travel to Dubai and be with you. I have received so many awards but this Lifetime Achievement Award which I am receiving for the first time has a special place in my heart, together with Daiji Dubai. I am greatful to Daiji Dubai for identifying my work and honouring me with this award. I have two families - First one consists of my wife, my children, and their families, and the second one is my associates in my journey who are sitting today next to me. Without these two families I am not able to do anything. I thank them too for their unconditional support." In an emotional speech, Joyce Ozario thanked Daiji Dubai for recognizing Eric’s services and bestowing him with this award. Founder member and founder and managing director of Daijiworld Media Walter Nandalike in his keynote address said, "By bestowing the Lifetime Achievement Award on Eric Ozario, we at Daiji Dubai have increased our value further and as a member I feel proud about my association with Daiji Dubai. Eric Ozario is tireless soldier. We may not agree with some of his views but all of
51 Veez Illustrated Weekly
us should appreciate him for the yoeman service he has rendered to Konkani language and culture. The work he has done for Konkani may not be matched by anyone else in the entire world. If anyone else was in Eric Ozario's place, he may not have stepped out of the house especially in the last two years due to the pandemic, but Ozario, without caring for his health or for coronavirus continuously worked for Konkani, which was evident in the last two years, be it SOAD singing competition or other activities held at Kalangaan. Hence he was the most deserving person to receive this award. I congratulate Eric Ozario's family, Joyce Ozario and his children." He also congratulated Clarence Pinto Kaikamba on receiving Daiji Dubai Literary Award and appreciated his services to Konkani language. Sponsors and supporters of the Event Globelink West Star Shipping LLC, Hyssna International, Ivory Grand Hotel Apartments, National Transport and Cont, Al Khalidiya Group, Al Mazroui Clevy Auto Services, Canara Restaurant, Paramount Cargo and Transport LLC, Blue Royal Group, Johnson Monteiro, Vamanjoor, Acme Building Materials Trading LLC, Gulf
Light Laundry, Reliable Fabricators LLC, Daijiworld Media Private Ltd, Royal Institute of Music and Arts, Broadway Events, Stream Line Middle East LLC, Maibhaas.com, Ramcy Fernandes, Digital World , Blue Chem LLC, Winny's Restaurant & Confectionery, . Edward Dsouza, Wilfred Mathias, Wilfred Vinod Tauro, Dinesh Correa, Ronney Serrao, William Robert Mendonca were honoured during the event. Founder Dayan D'Souza proposed the vote of thanks and thanked all the sponsors over the years who supported Daiji Dubai's journey over the years. The afternoon session was full of entertainment, with evergreen songs by Maand Sobhan. Popular emcee, actor, director, and community leader Donald Correa took over the stage with his unique style. His poetic presentation throughout the session was applauded by the audience. Eric Ozario started the session virtually with his beautiful composition 'Voda Po'nda' and answered witty questions from Dony Correa. After Eric Ozario, Abolya by Joyce, and Rashmi, Suryachim Kirnam, Soro by Warren D'Souza, Salkachi Paklli by Rashmi Fernandes, Rozalin Mho'jya
52 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Mogachem, Muzo Mogall Ganv by music. Kanishka Munasinghe on Eshan Fernandes and Rashmi, violin, Bijoy on tabla and dholak, Shirandharinso Pavs by Dony and Sameer Habeeb on drums and Asha, Hanv Saiba Polto'di Vetam and octopad, Eldrich D'Souza on bass Manddo by group mesmerized the guitar, Joston Pereira on keyboard, audience who applauded each Alston Gomes on saxophone, performance with loud cheers. trumpet, clarinet and accordian and Local artistes Malcon Rego and the master himself on rhythm guitar Cynthia Mendonca entertained the mesmerized the audience. audience with their short skits which Joel Abu Dhabi, whose Broadway were based on Eric Ozario's Sound Systems once again proved compositions. Talented artiste of that he is the best service provider for Dubai Melwyn Kalakul performed events across the UAE, along with his mimicry of Eric Ozario, sparking a team made laudable efforts in laugh riot among the audience. keeping the entire event going Ramcy Fernandes presented a self- without a single failure of sound or drawn portrait of Eric Ozario to Joyce light. Ozario. Rony Byndoor, former convenor of Music maestro Alwyn Fernandes and Daiji Dubai who specially flew in from his troupe did full justice to Maand India for this event, wonderfully Sobhann songs with their soulful compered the morning session. -------------------------------------------------------------2022 during the 22nd Daiji Dubai Anniversary celebrations at Al Garhoud Ballroom, Millenium Airport Hotel.
It was one of the happiest moments in our lives to receive great honor from Daiji Dubai on 13th February
My husband, Clarence, Kaikamba has always strived to extend great service to society and also, to the Konkani literature world. Readers have always enjoyed reading his crisp short stories and some
53 Veez Illustrated Weekly
beautiful poems too. Daiji Dubai Literature Award is a recognition from the Konkani Literature world for his hard work and dedication.
gratitude for the lovely hospitality with great smiles during our visit to Dubai. We felt as if we have our extended family in Dubai. I want to write everyone's names here, thanking them individually but practically it is impossible. But, I want to thank everyone we met in Dubai on 13th February. Thank you wonderful Mangalureans living in Dubai, all of you have gorgeous smiles. Memories of those meetings will be preserved in our hearts for many years to come. Thank you and may the Almighty bless all of us always.
-Jane Ida Pais Pinto, Qatar I want to express my sincere ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
54 Veez Illustrated Weekly
13th Death Anniversary of Fr Matthew Almeida, SJ
Today is the 13th Death Anniversary of my former colleague at Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr, Fr. Matthew Almeida, SJ, a linguist, Konknni researcher, writer, teacher, translator, editor, academician, lover of Indian and Western music, and critical analyst of literature. The Obituary of Late Fr. Matthew Almeida, SJ was written by me (Pratap Naik, SJ) in the first person style in 2009 and it was published in Jivit Goa Jesuit Newsletter. MATTHEW ALMEIDA, SJ (29.09.1935 - 18.02.2009) I would like to share with you about
my life on the solar planet earth. I was born on 29th September 1935 at Kundapura of present Udupi district of Karnataka. I had three brothers and three sisters. I was the sixth among my siblings. All of them died before me. I was the last one to join them. I lost my dad when I was young. My mother brought us up at our maternal grandfather's home at Kundapura. I did my primary studies at Kundapura and High School studies at Milagres High school, Kallianpur. I joined the Society of Jesus (Belgaum Mission) on 12 July 1952. I did my two year of novitiate and three years of Juniorate training at Vinayalaya in Mumbai. Later I was sent for 3 years of Philosophy to De Nobili College, Pune. I did 3 years of Regency as a teacher at St. Vincent High school, Pune. Four years of Theology studies were done at De Nobili. During summer holidays I learnt Indian music and tabla in Madhya Pradesh. I was ordained as a priest on 24th March 1965 at De
55 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Nobili. It was only after my ordination I had the opportunity to see my mother and relatives. Immediately after my ordination I was asked to go for Tertianship at Sitagarha. I did M.A in English literature from Karnataka University, Dharwad and B.Ed. and M.Ed at Bombay University with first class first. I served as a rector and principal/vice-principal of St. Britto High School, Mapuça (twice), St. Paul High School, Belgaum. And Loyola High School, Margão. In late 1970's Goa Pune Province was seriously thinking to set up an institute to promote Konknni and Pratap was chosen for this new venture. Since no other Jesuit showed interest in this ministry I volunteered for this new mission. To prepare for this mission I did M.S. in linguistics at Georgetown University in Washington D.C. and completed Ph.D. in Linguistics from the same University. I returned to India in August 1985. Since September 1985 to May 2002 I was the director and treasurer of Thomas Stephens Konknni Kendr (TSKK). TSKK was functioning from Loyola Hall, Miramar. I was the superior of the house from 1993 to 1998. Besides
this I was the Province consultor and the acting provincial in the absence of the Provincial. In May 1998 TSKK was shifted to its new premises at Alto Porvorim and I was appointed as the superior. In 2000 I started to edit TSKK Research Bulletin Sod and from 2006 Dor Mhoineachi Rotti, a religious Konknni monthly. I have written a number of research articles in Konknni and about Konknni in English and they are published in various journals and periodicals. I have written/edited/transliterated 14 books. According to many scholars and others I will be remembered for my three books, namely, A Description of Konkani, Konknni Basic course (Konknni Mullavo Kors in Devanagari script) and Romi Lipient Konknni Kors. I have served as a Konknni expert in various bodies of Goa State government, Central government, Goa University and non-government organizations. Besides, administration, research and teaching were my main works at TSKK. Listening to both Western and Indian classical music, designing book covers and logos for our institutions, and preparing cakes were my main hobbies.
56 Veez Illustrated Weekly
My service to Konknni research was recognized by Institute Menezes Bragança on 16 April 1993 by giving me the title "corresponding member" of it. On 24 April 2008 I received the prestigious Goa Konkani Academy's first Sahitya Projnya Puroskar. On Wednesday, 18 February at 12.57 I died due to cardiac arrest at J.M.J. Hospital at Alto Porvorim. Prior to this for nine days I was hospitalized for severe arthritis attack. On 19th the funeral was held at Holy family Church, Alto Porvorim. Archbishop of Goa, Filipe Neri Ferrão was the main celebrant. Many priests, religious and lay people were present to pay their last tribute. I am grateful for their prayers and loving presence. My special thanks to TSKK family for their love, care and active support. My creativity and talents bloomed in their company. They have a lion's share in my contributions to Konknni. My close friends always remark "Matthew is a silent worker. He speaks less and works more." or "Matthew looks like an ordinary Jesuit but he is really an extra ordinary person". When I hear
these remarks I just smile, because I always believed actions speak louder than words. I was glad to see that both GC 34 and GC 35 have stressed the importance of intellectual apostolate. However, at times I was discouraged to see that our young Jesuits do not volunteer for research and Konknni apostolate in our Province. I lived with my colleague Pratap Naik for 25 years out of which both of us served 23 years at TSKK! Both of us worked together, laughed, cried, cracked jokes, shared spiritual and other matters and discussed every subject under the sun. We were in two bodies but one mind and spirit. After my death some of you have said and written that Konknni world has lost a competent and dedicated researcher. I contributed my mite to the Province and specially by promoting the spirit of collaboration among the TSKK family. Now it is the turn of the younger generation of Goa Province to foster, nurture and strengthen what I planted. My prayers and blessings are always with you. Adeus. *********************
57 Veez Illustrated Weekly
58 Veez Illustrated Weekly
59 Veez Illustrated Weekly
KHARA BAATH
Vegetarian breakfast of Karnataka which prepared with Semolina | Sooji Rava, nuts & vegetables. My family favourite, healthy & tasty thindi.
1 tbsp chopped capsicum 1 big tomato 2 - 3 green chilli or more 1/2" fine chopped ginger 1/4 tsp mustard seeds 1/4 tsp cumin 1 tsp samber powder or as required Pinch of turmeric Few curry leaves Salt to taste Pinch of sugar {optional} Little lime juice Coconut oil or ghee as required 1/2 tsp chana dal 1/2 tsp urad dal Few cashew nuts Little chopped coriander leaves METHOD:
INGREDIENTS: 1 cup roasted rava 2 - 3 cups water or as required 2 tbsp green peas 2 tbsp chopped beans 2 tbsp carrot
▪︎ Take deep kadai with oil or ghee, add mustard, cumin seeds. Once splutter add curry leaves, dals, nuts & saute. Add onion, ginger, green chilli, tomato & stirr well. Now add
60 Veez Illustrated Weekly
well. NOTE:
samber powder, turmeric, add chopped veggies, salt to taste & satue very well, close lid & cook for few seconds on low flame. ▪︎ Now add water & get it boil very well. Add sugar, roasted rava slowly & keep stirring. Close & cook on slow flame until it becoms soft & still moist. Sprinkle lime juice, chopped corriander leaves & mix
▪︎Adjust all ingredients as per your taste & spice control.
▪︎Increase or decrease chillies to make extra spicy or less. ▪︎Pinch of kashmiri chilli powder can
be added for bright colour😃👍
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
61 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Recipe for Methi Thepla
5) 1 tsp coriander powder
Ingredients : 1) big bunch of fresh methi leaves 2) 2 cups of wheat flour 3) 1 tbsp oil 4) 1 tsp chilli powder
6) 1/2 tsp cumin powder 7) 1/4 tsp turmeric powder 8) pinch of asafoetida (hing) 9) salt as per taste
62 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Method :
other veg or non-veg gravy as per your choice.
* Wash methi leaves nicely, chop finely, add 1 tsp salt, mix well and keep aside for 5-10 mins * Take a wide bowl and add 2 cups of wheat flour * Squeeze methi leaves well and add into the flour * Add all other remaining ingredients mentioned above into the flour and mix well * Add sufficient water and knead the flour nicely and cover with cloth and keep aside for one hour * Roll thin chapatis and fry with ghee * Serve hot with pickle, curd or any --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
63 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Konkani Natak Sabha’s 78th Annual Day Celebration
The 78th anniversary of THE KONKANI NATAK SABHA was celebrated at the newly renovated Don Bosco Hall on 13.02.2022. Vice president of Konkani Natak Sabha Mr Liston D Souza welcomed the gathering. Konkani Natak Sabha’s Annual Report of various activities was
presented by General Secretary Mr. Floyd D’mello. The President of Karnataka Pathrakathara Sangha Maharashtra Rajya ® Mr Rons Bantwal was the Guest of Honour for the programme. He said that Art and culture was started along with human civilization and every person by birth is an artist. Art plays a major role in cleansing the human
64 Veez Illustrated Weekly
conscience. He also added that artists and thinkers of theatre, and patrons of the art and culture should actively support the work done towards wellbeing of the society. The President for the occasion Rev. Fr Paul Melwyn D Souza - Capuchin addressed the gathering and expressed his warm gratitude to every donor for contributing generously towards the renovation of Don Bosco Hall, he also urged everyone present here to extend their full support to Konkani Natak Sabha for it's upcoming activities so
as to keep the Konkani art and culture alive. On this Occasion Dr Austin D Souza Prabhu Kalakar Puraskar 2020 was awarded to Senior artist Shri Charles Sequeira, Bejai and Shri James Mendonca Kalakar Puraskar 2020 was awarded to Ms Mary Lobo, Urwa. Dr Austin D Souza Prabhu Kalakar Puraskar 2021 was awarded to Mrs Gretta Rebello, Bejai and Shri James Mendonca Kalakar Puraskar 2021 was awarded to Mr Alwyn Fernandes, Valencia for their outstanding contribution to the Konkani Dramas. Kalakar Puraskar
65 Veez Illustrated Weekly
Rons Bantwal was felicitated for his outstanding contribution towards the society as a journalist. Treasurer Mr Gerald Concessao rendered vote of thanks. Joint Secretary Praveen Rodrigues was present on the dais. The programme was compered by Mr. Dolphy Saldanha.
included a shawl, a citation, memento, fruits & flowers and a cheque for Rupees Ten Thousand. Guest of Honour of the occasion Mr
As a part of cultural activity for the day popular revolutionary social drama “K. D. Bona BA” scripted by Amar Wilfy Rebimbus and directed by Dolla Manglur was staged on the occasion which was enjoyed by a huge audience.
66 Veez Illustrated Weekly
67 Veez Illustrated Weekly
68 Veez Illustrated Weekly
69 Veez Illustrated Weekly
70 Veez Illustrated Weekly
71 Veez Illustrated Weekly