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

Veez English Weekly

Vol:

3

No: 8 January 18, 2024

‘Honorary Guyanese’ receives another prestigious award for philanthropy 1 ವೀಜ್ ಕ ೊಂಕಣಿ

Honorary Guyanese’ receives another prestigious award for philanthropy • •

By Staff Reporter, Guyana Chronicle - January 7, 2024

Diana Alli D’Souza (right) with President of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada, Thomas Saras, and Executive Director Maria Saras Voutsinas

By Frederick Halley

Guyanese”.

HAVING spent a few years of her life in Guyana during the early 1970s, following her marriage to a Guyanese jeweller in England, Diana Alli D’Souza considers herself to be an “honorary

Last Saturday night, I had the distinct privilege of reacting faceto-face with this phenomenal individual, who was born in Mumbai, India, but has since made

2 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Toronto, Canada, her home after leaving Guyana in 1975. It was also one night after she had received another prestigious award to add to her massive collection.

Diana was awarded the Medal of Distinction/Certificate of Award “For Community Service/Humanities/Education for her distinguished and outstanding services to Canada” by the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada at a lavish dinner held at the Hungarian Canadian Community Centre, in North York, Toronto.

In an invited comment, a modest but proud Diana disclosed, “I am profoundly grateful and in awe receiving one of the most prestigious National Canadian Press Ethnic Medal of Distinction and Award by the members of the Board of Directors for Community Service, Humanities and Education for distinguished and outstanding service to Canada. I thank Executive Director Maria Saras-Voutsinas for nominating me, and President and CEO Thomas S. Saras for his endless faith in me.”

As Diana explained, “Altruism and

Social Responsibility, Philanthropy and Volunteerism have been a passion of mine since a very young child. My parents have been my biggest role models who ensured that in their parenting skills and sage advice, no individual and especially no child, is deprived of the necessities at home or in school.

“They sent me to a Catholic school in Mumbai, India, that focused on caring for orphan children. They could very well have afforded a private school, but, to them, they believe in humility, humanitarianism, and a genuine interest in the well-being of the less fortunate. In turn, my passion for making a difference took leaps and bounds, setting a strong foundation to open doors for minorities and the underrepresented, positively impacting my perspective for the rest of my life supporting poverty, multi-faith, sexual orientation, and underrepresentation. My global contributions now focus on these very premises.

“I have taken the pollen of four gurus and built my own tree of hope from Mother Theresa, Nelson

3 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Desmond Tutu, and from these saintly icons, I began my vision and framework that everyone deserves the chance to live a healthy, productive, and safe life.

Partnership and Student Life; Coordinator and Business Officer; Admissions Officer; Awards Officer and UofT diversity representative nationally.

“In all I do, my daily mantra goes like this, from the words of William Penn, ‘I will pass this way but once.

If there’s any good that I can do, let me do it now, for I’ll never pass this way again. I will see this day but once; if there’s any kindness I can show, let me show it now, for I’ll never see this day again!’”

Maria Saras-Voutsinas, Executive Director National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada, pointed out that “Diana embodies the best of humanity. She is constantly giving back to the most marginalised and has always been a source of inspiration. It was my honour to recognise her as a pillar in multicultural communities.”

The Certificate of Award and medal Alli D’Souza served at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, for several decades as Senior Officer of Service Learning, Community

While at the University of Toronto, Diana founded or cofounded more than 21 outreach programmes for underserved, underrepresented, vulnerable and racialised populations. Her desire to make a difference also led her to spearhead global-scale benefit concerts through the University International Health Program (UTIHP) to raise funds for destitute children worldwide. And, as lead administrator of UTIHP’s Books with Wings project, medical

4 Veez Illustrated Weekly

textbooks have filled libraries in war-torn and developing countries.

After retirement, Diana’s continued interest in altruism and social responsibility led her to found Access Empowerment Council, a non-profit organisation created to inspire disengaged, marginalised and underrepresented youth, and engage isolated elderly globally, focusing on the Himalayas. “Being a philanthropist, mentor and English teacher has been my biggest blessing,” she says.

During the pandemic, Alli D’Souza also turned her attention locally, supporting several soup kitchens in Toronto, one called Ripples of Kindness for the neediest, requiring a hot meal, water and fruit packed for them. “It is a humbling experience knowing that many of us live in a privileged world, with a roof over our head and all the necessities that many barely have,” she said.

at the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital while living in Georgetown. “I now donate to an orphanage called Oaks of Righteousness in tribute to my daughter born there, and to commit to global needs. As well, for several years, I have supported projects dealing with poverty through Janet Naidu at Christmas.” Naidu is the current president of Guyanese Canadians for Unity (GCU), based in Toronto, Canada, an organisation which Diana also serves as a member.

A passionate trailblazer on social responsibility, Diana has served on numerous Boards: Faculty of Medicine Council, University of Toronto Governing Council, community foundations, university task forces and committees and is the recipient of more than two dozen prestigious awards, including 10 medical school graduation awards given to her for rolemodelling, compassion and excelling the students’ experience.

LIFE IN GUYANA In a previous interview, Diana spoke of her experience in Guyana, where she gave birth to her youngest child

Apart from the Top 25 Canada Immigrant Award, she is the recipient of the Order of Ontario the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee

5 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Medal and has also been bestowed an MD/PhD Canadian, and with two perpetual awards in her University of Toronto MD name awarded to medical students, graduation awards.

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

6 Veez Illustrated Weekly

7 Veez Illustrated Weekly

•

Mangalore Diocese Kick Starts 'Year of Prayer' with Eucharistic Procession •

•

•

Sun, Jan 07 2024 09:10:34 PM

Fr Anil Ivan Fernandes, CCC Pics: Stanly Bantwal & John D'Souza Mangaluru, Jan 7: The Catholic Diocese of Mangaluru hosted a soul-stirring eucharistic procession on Sunday, January 7 from Milagres Church to Rosario Cathedral.

Enthusiastic participation was seen from thousands of Catholics across different parishes within the

Mangalore Diocese, exhibiting profound devotion and discipline.

Aligned with Pope Francis's designation of 2024 as the 'Year of

8 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Prayer' in anticipation of jubilee

2025, the procession resonated with the theme ‘Prayer Unites us with God and with our brothers and Sisters.'

9 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The event commenced with a solemn mass celebrating the 10 Veez Illustrated Weekly

'Epiphany of Lord Jesus,' presided over by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha,

Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, at Milagres Church. The eucharistic

11 Veez Illustrated Weekly

procession coincided with the solemnity of the epiphany, also 12 Veez Illustrated Weekly

13 Veez Illustrated Weekly

recognized as the feast of the Epiphany, Theophany, or Three 14 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Kings’ Day, commemorating the first revelation of Jesus Christ to the 15 Veez Illustrated Weekly

gentiles symbolized by the Magi,

emphasizing manifestation.

16 Veez Illustrated Weekly

his

divine

In his homily during the mass, Bishop Saldanha stressed the

significance of seeking God first in the holy scriptures and then within

17 Veez Illustrated Weekly

one another's hearts. "The word of God in our hands acts as our

guiding star directing us to Jesus.

When we immerse ourselves in

18 Veez Illustrated Weekly

reading and reflecting on the gospel, our hearts ignite with its

message, making us aware of Jesus's presence in our lives," he

19 Veez Illustrated Weekly

emphasized.

The adorned vehicle carried the Holy Eucharist through city 20 Veez Illustrated Weekly

thoroughfares, commencing from Milagres Church and passing

through Hampankattta, clock tower circle, A B Shetty Circle, and Nehru

21 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Circle, culminating at Rosario Cathedral.

The participants, accompanied by musical bands and choir groups, displayed reverence and orderliness, ensuring minimal disruption to the public. They filled the atmosphere with hymns of praise and congregated at Rosario Cathedral grounds to worship the eucharist and contemplate the word of God. Fr Basil Vas, parish priest of Vorkady Church, Kasaragod, delivered insights on prayer, emphasizing its role in fostering relationships with both the divine and humanity. He stressed, "We can't excuse a lack of time for prayer

when we devote significant hours to the digital realm. These modern tools should not just facilitate human interactions but also act as bridges, connecting us with the divine through prayers for others."

He further said, "Each time we engage online, it's an opportunity to extend prayers to those in dire need.

The digital landscape offers a multitude of ways for spiritual connectivity." Fr Vas emphasized the importance of action in prayer, stating, "If our prayers don't extend to lifting the fallen, comforting the distressed, and aiding those in need, they remain fruitless in uniting us with the divine and humanity."

The ceremony at Rosario was animated by Fr Clifford Fernandes, parish priest of Cordel Church, and Fr Robert D’Souza, principal of Lourdes Central School and coordinated by Mangala Jyothi Liturgical Centre. At the end, prizes were awarded to winners of the contest organized as part of the Diocese's ‘Anti-Drug Awareness Campaign.’

Bishop Saldanha extended gratitude to all participants, acknowledging their contribution to the success of the procession. --------------------------

22 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Mangaluru: Aloysian Youth Icon-2024 achievers honoured by college at Alumni Awards ceremony •

Thu, Jan 11, 2024, 08:10:46 PM

Daijiworld Media Mangaluru (VP)

Network-

Mangaluru, Jan 11: The rector and management of St Aloysius Institute, in collaboration with St Aloysius College Alumni Association (SACAA), organized Aloysian Youth

Icon-2024, Alumni Awards on Thursday, January 11, at St. Aloysius Degree College.

The chief inaugurator of the programme, Fr Praveen Martis SJ, principal, St Aloysius Degree

23 Veez Illustrated Weekly

College, expressed his joy during his presidential speech, saying, "It's been a different evening and an extraordinary evening in the history of St. Aloysius, and tomorrow is our

foundation day. We felt inspired by these award holders, and I believe it was inspirational for our students as

24 Veez Illustrated Weekly

well, who'll think of growing as big as them. The committee had chosen the right people, and I'm happy to see them achieve this award. When they dedicated this award to their teachers, it made me feel happy.

When we see such talented students coming out of this Jesuit college, it melts our hearts."

Also present at this event was Fr Melwyn Pinto SJ, Rector, St Aloysius Institute, and patron SACCA. He

expressed, "It's a proud moment for me as the rector of this institution to be a part of this ceremony. All of them have achieved great accomplishments in life, bringing them to the students and showing them as role models. A famous person once said that trouble happens when we keep our aim low and reach it, and because of this, we don't understand our hidden potential. Today these five people have become testimony to show us that achievements can be made on a huge scale. Many personalities have achieved so much in very little time, and of course, most of them cannot achieve what they achieved, but if you put in 100%, you'll achieve it."

On this occasion of Aloysian Youth Icon-2024, five former students of Aloysius College received Alumni Awards and were felicitated. They are Lt Col Laishram Tony Singh, Indian Army; Capt Michael Saldana, Air India commander; Tanvi Rao for performing arts; Shashank Rai, International Basketball player; Vaishnavi Pavitran, diplomat, UNICEF. After receiving felicitation, they shared their experiences about the

25 Veez Illustrated Weekly

college and talked about how At this event, Sunil Kunder K, Aloysius College gave them an president, SACCA, and Stephan J opportunity to grow bigger in their Pinto, convenor, Aloysius Youth icon life. was present.

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

Points to Ponder, January 2024 COP28 – Better With it Than

Emission Gap Report of the United

Without

Nations says that the world is

Many epithets have been hurled at the latest annual Conference of Parties (COP) on climate crisis. It has been called, among others, a mere talking

shop,

ambition

without

sincerity, much ado about little and a cop out. But these conferences have covered considerable ground in addressing climate crisis, apart, of course, from raising awareness of the looming crisis. At the time of COP21 at Paris in 2015, the world was on a trajectory to get hotter by 4 degrees Celsius by 2100. The consensus among scientists today is that a rise to 1.5 degrees is manageable, 2 degrees could be damaging, but a rise beyond that would be calamitous. But the latest

headed to a rise of anywhere between 2.5 and 2.9 degrees, perhaps closer to the latter, which is still disastrous. But the journey from 4 degrees to 2.9 degrees could not have happened without the climate alarm rung by the COP meetings.

After two weeks of negotiations, COP28 ended with an acceptance of the deal by the delegates at Dubai.

Negotiators agreed to transition away from fossil fuels, despite earlier demands for phasing them out/down, as it was proving difficult for developing and oil-based economies to agree upon the latter strategy. The deal states that the transition would be done in a way that gets the world to net-zero GHG (Green House Gas) emissions in 2050. It projects the world’s GHG

26 Veez Illustrated Weekly

emissions peaking by 2025, to reach its agreed-upon threshold, but gives room to developing countries to peak later. This is a relative positive for India as the economy is expected to be one of the fastest growing in the world. This gives it time for investing in the alternative technologies and policies to reduce emissions in the long-term. Of course, the moot point is whether there is going to be a long term!

While the final draft noted the need for greater finance for poor countries to transition away from fossil fuels and adapt to climate change, it didn’t call upon any additional requirement for monetary support from developed nations, which is already significantly short of initial targets. This is quite worrying, as developing nations will not be able to fund their progress on their own towards climate goals. Also, stringent regulations (carbon tax for instance) from developed nations for doing business will put developing nations out of competition and render transfer of technology more difficult.

Additionally, no goals were set to

reduce methane emissions (one of the most lethal GHGs), which is disappointing, but high-methaneemitting companies have started to reduce it voluntarily.

The Global Stocktake: The stocktake recognized that global GHG emissions need to be cut 43%/60% by 2030/35 (and reach net-zero emissions by 2050) to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Countries are currently off track in meeting their Paris Agreement goals. For deep and rapid reduction of GHG emissions, nations were called on to triple RE (Renewable Energy) capacity globally by 2030, double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency by 2030, accelerate efforts towards the phase-down of unabated coal power, utilize zero and low-carbon fuels well before or by around midcentury, and accelerate zero- and low-emission technologies (renewables, nuclear, abatement, removal tech).

Funding increased: But not sufficiently to support developing countries in achieving their climate objectives. Over US$ 85bn were pledged for environment-related

27 Veez Illustrated Weekly

efforts, showcasing a significant commitment to climate financing, including US$ 61.8/6.8/3.5/0.8bn for Climate Finance/Energy/Green Climate Fund/Loss and Damage Fund. Additionally, World Bank, ADB, African Development Bank and MDBs increased/launched funds to finance climate-related projects and drive positive climate actions. Despite this, developed countries failed to mobilize the committed collective number of US$ 100bn per year. Besides, as per some estimates, developing countries may need up to US$ 1tn every year for climate action, which is ten times more than the US$ 100bn goal.

Private finance unlocked: Many corporations joined the pledge for global transformation (net-zero emissions/near-zero methane emissions) including Saudi Aramco, Shell, Total Energies, BP, Petrobras, Danone, Nestle, General Mills, The Kraft Heinz, ONGC, etc. Initiatives were taken up to accelerate decarbonization in heavy emitting sectors and transport globally. Oil and gas companies (accounting for 40% of global oil production) came

forward to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 or before. Businesses and philanthropic organizations contributed to the climate transition in emerging economies and for the development and deployment of climate-tech solutions.

Pledges and declarations received greater support by nations.

More than 10 pledges and declarations were launched, which received historic support. Many countries endorsed declarations which were focused on cutting emissions and achieving net zero (Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency, Triple Nuclear Energy, and Global Cooling Pledge), transforming agriculture and food systems (agriculture, food & climate), and development of climate-resilient, sustainable, and equitable health systems (climate and health). Climate finance and hydrogen and derivates declarations attracted few, essentially, developed countries.

But as the Economist puts it, climate finance at the scale required is not available, affordable or, accessible, particularly in the global south.

Reforms are required if the

28 Veez Illustrated Weekly

potential of private capital is to be unleashed. The key to reforming the financial system may be the use of catalytic instruments, through which governments assume responsibility for the riskiest tranche of climate projects in a process known as concessional finance, to unlock private-sector funding.

Hyphen, a German-led consortium, is considering a $9.4bn investment in a solar and wind-powered green hydrogen plant in Namibia, for example, after the German government provided financial backing.

India avoids rigid commitments at COP28: India is the third biggest CO2 emitter after China and US; but its per-capita CO2 emissions are just two tons of CO2, which is still less than half the global average. India continued to pursue long-term goals, refusing to force itself to strict commitments (declarations).

Considering its high growth ahead, a fast-paced shift towards low emission fuels and new technologies is a tall task for India considering high population base and resource dependency on developed nations who are

unwilling to fully cooperate. That said, India will continue to pursue the transition at its own conducive and constructive pace.

At the end of COP 28 the fact remains that climate talks have quietly, perhaps deliberately ignored history through a focus on the present.

Thus, the emphasis has not been on cumulative carbon emissions but on countries that are currently large emitters in the aggregate, even if not in per capita terms. But even as we seek answer to this question of climate justice the fact that mankind is already on the brink of climate precipice would mean that COP28 deal can be fruitful only when individual countries earnestly act to achieve their goals and submit their Nationally Determined Commitments in 2025. If India and China take centre stage to cut emissions and roll out rapid transition to green energy, it could drastically reduce the projected global temperature rise.

In the past the question was: Can we put a price on the wonders of nature? Now it is: How long can we survive if we ignore nature? *

29 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Arunanjali Securities Poonam Anand Nikethan, Ground Floor, 8th cross, Gandhinagar,Urwa Mangalore - 575003 PHONE : +918243552437 MOBILE :9019787658, 8095275933

Save a Tree ... Please don't print this e-mail unless it is absolutely necessary.

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

Mangaluru Netravati Waterfront Developments 2024 Compiled : Ivan Saldanha-Shet.

The Smart city projects in Mangalore city by MSCL, have been on-going for too long and the immense discomfort and stress of

its permanent denizens is a matter to reconsider and ponder from time to time. Though much water of our sacred river Netravati has

30 Veez Illustrated Weekly

flowed into the sea; the project works, and slow haphazard progress is vastly unpredictable, worrying, and confusing even to regular seasoned civic watchers here. Very often angst results when newly laid concrete roads and structures are dug and demolished incurring serious loss to taxpayers’ money and inconvenie reverting to square one, presently it is seen this has increased even in Hampankatta and main city areas. Early last year the upheaval around Mahakalipadapu, Morgan's Gate and Mangalore Club had caused shocks to people, and nothing was clear about anything right now it is worse with a big part of the Rail Underpass Bridge (RUB) having collapsed and the authority going into blind mode. Just a brief 'armchair view' of common humble citizens here for some general awakening for people in and away from the city through our own 'VEEZ Weekly' for thought, though things have hit a roadblock with no conclusive direction and/or details.

A look at the riverfront/waterfront, from Nethravati Rail Bridge, the Southern tip of the city and Bolar/Bundar Fishing Boat yard on the western

sea face of the city is pertinent. Practically no active citizens are inclined nor have the scope to get to the brass tacks of the development agenda and the complicated access to information and action, the redpape and stonewalling is too cumbersome.

Only very few if any are aware of little and seized of the matter.

Environmentalists and such specialists are not involved, as is desirable due to various reasons. Legal action is very remote, expensive, and delayed for the common citizen to utilize. Many such practical hurdles preclude active prevention of malpractices and consequently allow the selfinterested, profit mongers and financial adventurers and sharks to have a free run and corner the benefits almost without any questions and/or barriers. Is the project really for the common citizen - or for facilitating vested interests.... But surely it is each one for himself and God for all.

A well-known activist and social worker of the city recently lamented in public that the State government is not serious enough to take the

31 Veez Illustrated Weekly

waterfront (or riverfront) project forward under the smart city mission. Promenade development from the Netravati railway bridge (near Morgan’s Gate) to the Bolar Sea face, 2.1 km is one of the key features of the project. Some tenants who have taken the government land, now under Karnataka Maritime Development Board, on lease at a “meagre rate” when the earlier governments were ruling, are hindering the progress of the project by moving the court and they are not ready to spare the land for the project. Hence, the project is going on at a snail’s pace. Those tenants had managed to get the land on lease for a cheap rate by political string pulling.

The government officials concerned are also not keen to address the hurdles in the project and get them cleared at the earliest. Despite all the development hype an actual visit to the area earmarked proves that minor piecemeal works are underway and does not at all show like a serious major project. It is also not considered possible that even a part of the project can be completed in the time frame allotted a high caliber

commitment, dedication, operation and 24x7 action is essential from all authorities concerned. There are no indications that such a thing can happen given the current out-look and atmosphere.

The on-going Foot dragging: Though Mangaluru Smart City Limited (MSCL) has already begun work superficially on the Waterfront development project making hardly any forward thrust, the special purpose vehicle is yet to acquire the land required for the widening of approach roads to the city. The MSCL has identified seven existing roads that can be widened if additional land on both sides is acquired. Further, additional land is also required for car parking and other amenities. Hence, the MSCL has written to Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) for the

32 Veez Illustrated Weekly

acquisition of additional land by issuing transferable development rights (TDR) to the owners of land. Promenade development is one of the key features of the waterfront project. It includes setting up a biodiversity park, creating a bird-watching area, building a pathway of 6m width for a stretch of 2.1km and laying a cycle track of 3m width from the bridge to the Bolar Sea face. The other facilities to be created include setting up of an outdoor gymnasium, creating a bicycle stand, a buggy point, play area for children, pet park, a park with seats, landscaping, and several other public amenities, said MSCL general manager (technical) Arun Prabha KS. “We need good connecting roads to enter the riverfront project from the main roads of the city. We have identified seven roads from the main roads that connect the city with the waterfront area. The existing width of those identified roads are about 10 to 15ft. We must develop those roads into 6 to 9m widths. For this, we will have to acquire land which can be done through the TDR process,” he added.

Mayor Sudheer Shetty Kannur said that a proposal of acquiring land to widen roads through TDR has been sent to the MCC’s town planning standing committee for a report.

Only late in the day suddenly it dawned that there are no connecting roads to the project.

Therefore, it is evident that the waterfront project is an unplanned project, in reality, there are no connecting roads to the project. The pleas of connecting roads and acquisition should have been done before floating tenders and awarding of contracts to the waterfront project. The procedures followed in this project seem like “putting the cart before the horse'...

Done in a hurry and unplanned to show 'utilisation' of Funds.

An Overview- of the Pros & Cons: The opposition: The stakeholders, like Tile Factory owners, tenants, Boatard builders, Fish merchants/employers, laborers, landowners, and concerned citizens residing along the Netravathi Riverbank from Netravati Railway Bridge to Bolar Sea Face, have much

33 Veez Illustrated Weekly

to fear in fact. There is a real perception that Mangaluru Smart City Ltd. (MSCL) Netravathi Waterfront Promenade Development Project has been initiated without proper adherence to the due process of law. Lot of news articles have been published in the media regarding the Netravathi Waterfront Promenade Development Project. Both MSCL and some elected representatives have misled the media regarding this project. It is to be noted that there are rampant instances of noncompliance with necessary regulations and guidelines, causing legitimate concerns among stakeholders / landowners.

historic town of Kudla & Mangaluru and its many names, derived from the Goddess Mangaladevi, whose temple stands in this main area and the confluence of the the two rivers flowing into the great Arabian Sea. Just behind the Mangaladevi Temple beside the banks of the rivers and opposite the spot of the rivers joining the Sea it is said was the original fort of the Portuguese who landed there in early 1500 AD. Islam came much earlier in mid-600 AD and historical influences are visible to this day.

Suitable scientific development and preservation of the historical aspects for posterity is very essential at this point.

The general area earmarked for waterfront development now is the original part and parcel that is from ancient times the actual part of the

The waterfront development project under Mangaluru Smart City Mission or the Mangaluru Smart City Ltd. (MSCL) by awarding the contract for the 185-crore project under 10 packages. Some of the larger features of the project are promenade development from Netravati railway bridge (near Mahakali Padpu/Morgan’s Gate) to Bolar Sea face to 2.1 k.m., construction of a hanging bridge across the Phalguni (or Gurupura

34 Veez Illustrated Weekly

river) from Sultan Bathery to Tannirbavi, refurbishment of water jetties at Tannirbavi and Sultan Bathery, and creating infrastructure for water sports activities.

Railway Underpass at Jeppinamogaru : With an advanced road/highway network through Mangaluru to the South (Kerala), it is essential to eliminate the serious bottleneck of two railway gates/crossings at Mahakalipadappu.

Therefore, works on two box type underpasses have been taken up with new approach roads formed across Morgan's Gate, Mahakalipadappu and Jeppinamogaru. This will provide a seamless flow of traffic through the underpass to the highway. It is stated that the Bundar Goodshed is to move to Ullal, two cumbersome railway gates at Pandeshwar and Hoige Bazar will be freed for smooth flow of road traffic in due time. The railway gates at Jeppinamogaru are practically closed to road traffic now.

An Overview of the reasoning that damages the worth of this project: A section of the local population is aghast at the possible

environmental foreseen.

damage

that

is

** Highly ambitious project of MSCL is Netravathi Waterfront Promenade Development project.

This project proposes the construction of cycle paths, walkways, outdoor gym, cycle stands, creating play arenas, birdwatching areas, toilets, ticket booths, car parking areas, buggy points, pet parks, parks with seating arrangements and landscaping etc.

This project was supposed to be completed by June 2023 and has yet to really move forward.

** South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP) in its article “Top Ten River Front Development Stories 2022: Destroying Rivers, Livelihoods” has made pointed out failures of 10

35 Veez Illustrated Weekly

River Front Developments (RFD) projects in India citing the examples of Sabarmati Riverfront turning into a stagnant water body, Varanasi Ganga Canal Project impacting Ganga morphology, damaging turtle sanctuary, Hyderabad Musi Rejuvenation and Beautification Project etc. ** The contracts for this project were supposed to be awarded by March 2022 to get the allocated funds from the Central Government.

However, the contracts were awarded only in the month of May 2022 crossing the deadline by 2 months. As on June 22, 2023, the contractors had not received the finalized sketches, plans, drawings etc. of site to start work, the present position is unclear. . ** Coastal regulatory Zone (CRZ) approval should have been secured before awarding the contracts.

However, Contracts were awarded before obtaining the necessary CRZ clearances. The conditional CRZ approval was granted only in October 2022.

denied granting CRZ clearance to the Netravati Waterfront Project because of its proximity to the river (in CRZ I) and suggested realignment.

However, MSCL provided inaccurate and misleading information to obtain the final CRZ approval. ** Ecological Issues: CRZ approval is very important as the sea being approximately 1 km away from the project area where Netravati River estuary/mouth meets the Arabian Sea. In this context, the Netravathi bank is an ecologically sensitive area, prone to soil erosion and floods and a breeding place for marine life, flora and fauna which are sacred. ** Non-Adherence to Recommendations: In technical committee meeting, the Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC) had provided certain recommendations for the inprincipal approval of the project but unfortunately, these recommendations have not been adhered to in the DPR.

** The CRZ authority has twice 36 Veez Illustrated Weekly

** Inconsistencies in DPR: The final DPR with plans and sketches of the project were submitted in the month of December 2021. The realignment of the project as per conditional CRZ approval (October 2022) was neither updated in DPR (December 2021) nor in the awarded contract (May 2022).

land available for this project.

Private land abutting this Port land must be acquired if this project must be done. This raises a natural question as to how MSCL would construct cycle/walk tracks in discontinuous fragments of Portland without acquisition of these private lands.

** Lack of Transparency: It is to be noted that, in the MSCL website there are no details available regarding Detailed Project Report (DPR), sketches, Environmental Impact Assessment report, Social Impact Assessment etc. for the Netravathi bank stretch raising doubts regarding transparency of this project. Also, at the project site there is no display board regarding the details of the project, cost estimate, contractor details and other related information.

** Lack of Stakeholder Communication: Till date, private landowners of the Netravathi bank have not received any notification, sketches, land acquisition, notices nor any written requests for collaboration, from the Portland & Inland waterways department or the MSCL.

** Land Acquisition Challenges: MSCL claims to have the Netravati Waterfront project only on the Port land which belongs to Port & Inland waterways, Bunder. But there is very little Port land available at many places on this 2.1 km stretch and, in some cases, there is no Port

** Incomplete Handover: Most importantly Port & Inland waterways have so far not officially communicated in writing the handed over /transfer of any Portland land to MSCL for Netravati waterfront development project in writing. Being a Special Purpose Vehicle, how could MSCL start the work even on the Port land at the various locations from Railway Bridge to Bolar Sea face without

37 Veez Illustrated Weekly

following proper Portland transfer procedures?

and cycling beautification.

** Stakeholder Lease Payments & Validity Periods of Licensees: Most of the lessees/licensees have been diligently paying their Port land lease amount/license fees. with these licenses remaining valid until the 31st of March 2024.

** Stakeholder Inquiries and MSCL Responses: The stakeholders have repeatedly sent communications to MSCL requesting for sketches, drawings, clarity on this project etc.

They have also had face to face meetings to enquire regarding this but have only received generic and vague responses from MSCL. MSCL authorities have been only giving oral assurances and no written communications /replies to the stakeholders till this date.

** Impact on Boat Building Yards: The boat building yards running on the stretch have obtained lakhs of rupees loan from MSME, banks, Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and other organizations. The boat building yards require river access for their boat transportation. this project would cut off their access to the river. Also, thousands of employees working on the boatbuilding yard are dependent on this industry for their livelihood. MSCL claims that they will incorporate the walk paths and cycle tracks in between the boatyards which is not possible / practical. We should prioritize projects that create jobs and support livelihoods rather than focusing on building fancy walking

tracks

for

city

** Commencement Without sketches & Plans: The work at many places has started by bulldozing premises, buildings, trees, mangroves etc. without seeking permission from the stakeholders and without any plan and sketch as mentioned above. ** Environmental Violations: The MSCL has engaged in cutting of Mangroves and other natural vegetation along the banks of the Netravathi River without obtaining requisite permissions from forest departments.

This action

38 Veez Illustrated Weekly

constituted violation of CRZ norms and other environmental regulations. resulting in complaints by environmentalists from National Environment Care Federation (NECF), Mangaluru, halting the project temporarily in the month of April 2023 for CRZ violation. ** Inadequate Stakeholder Meetings: During Wadia Tech's tenure as consultants, numerous meetings were held with stakeholders until 2018. However, for the past five years, MSCL has been inactive in meeting the stakeholders with respect to the Netravati Riverfront project. Only on May 31, 2023, MSCL had a meeting with stakeholders whose lands would be affected by this project.

One of the reasons why the meeting was convened was because MSCL wanted to resume their work by getting support from the property owners affected by this project, which had been halted by environmentalists in the month of April 2023. The meeting was a fancy presentation by the Architects & Engineering Consultants without addressing the issues of the property owners / stakeholders. It is

disheartening to say that the MSCL lacks the basic ability to organize meetings properly by sharing agendas with stakeholders beforehand, leaving them uninformed about the discussions.

Also, the minutes of the meeting were provided only after numerous reminders and requests from the stakeholders. ** Doubts Regarding Consultants: There are also several doubts regarding the credibility and process of awarding ‘waterfront Promenade Development’ contract to the present Architectural Engineering consultant’s M/s Urban Frame Pvt Ltd. ** Project Completion Deadline Doubts: None of the MSCL projects in the city have been completed on time. MSCL claims Netravathi Waterfront development project will be completed by June 2024? It’s crucial to note that June 2024 marks the deadline for Smart City Mission Projects in India. However, is 8 months’ time sufficient for creating cycle paths, walkways, outdoor gym, cycle stands, play arenas, birdwatching areas, toilets, ticket

39 Veez Illustrated Weekly

booths, car parking areas, buggy points, pet parks, parks with seating arrangements and landscaping etc.? ** Petitions and Appeals to Authorities: In consideration of the concerns outlined above, we submitted a petition to Mr. Dinesh Gundu Rao, the Dakshina Kannada In-charge Minister during Janatha Darshan Programme held on 25.09.2023. Also, we voiced our grievances with the Honorable Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly on 29.06.2023 and a petition was sent to him via email regarding these issues. Additionally, we sent our mass petitions dated 27.07.2023 to The Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka and 15 other Government departments requesting their intervention in this matter.

Indeed, the enlightened citizens of this educated and cultured multipronged community population are facing a conflict of interests this is so all over the world and is a practical problem that nature bows too and

things have to resolve. The conservative tradition oriented seasoned generations are finding it difficult to accept the changes as is understandable and seen in most matters of change however a stage has been crossed where a decision to stop the process is possible perhaps and authorities may not consider or even entertain such an idea. On the other hand, more liberal, modern, and forwardthinking people and the younger generations have their own shortterm views and root for change and modernisation and rapid development this too can be seen everywhere and not exclusively in this area. Also, political views and manipulations, corruption for making a quick buck and individual greed as opposed to need will hopefully always get the best results. Hopefully the new format of the city will bring satisfaction, joy, safety, and convenience to each and all who live in Mangaluru and pass/visit this beautiful nature blessed city for centuries to come.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------40 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Dying to Live -By: Molly Pinto.

Every day with every breath we bravely step into another day With delusional hopes and dreams, plans and schemes In a future where we envision the fruits of our labour How many you know will never return to see the new sunrise again 41 Veez Illustrated Weekly

How ironic life is, we celebrate another day closer to our departure Clueless and mindless we wonder through days and months Never considering yesterday is gone forever and tomorrow is promised to none Every day we go to bed, leaving chores for when the cockcrows If that's not arrogance, then tell me what is this conviction we flaunt It's almost hilarious if it weren't so petrifying for some The Master Maistro of course foresaw the frailty of His creation How ironic life is, we're thrown into the deep, to swim or to sink It "may be" hunky Dory from the other side where the dots all connect It's not funny when, through fires and storms one must trudge, to evolve Cheer up, you're not alone, every living thing is born to die -

-By: Molly Pinto.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------42 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The First Christmas Tree

By Henry van Dyke

III

Collection by-Urban Dsouza, Moodbidri

The youth obeyed; two of the foresters sprang to help him; and while the soft fir-wood yielded to the stroke of the axes, and the snow flew from the bending branches, Winfried turned and spoke to his followers in a cheerful voice, that refreshed them like wine. "Courage, brothers, and forward yet a little!

The moon will light us presently, and the path is plain. Well know I that the journey is weary; and my own heart wearies also for the home in England, where those I love are keeping feast this Christmas-eve.

But we have work to do before we feast to-night. For this is the Yuletide, and the heathen people of the forest are gathered at the thunder-oak of Geismar to worship their god, Thor. Strange things will be seen there, and deeds which make the soul black. But we are sent to lighten their darkness; and we will teach our kinsmen to keep a Christmas with us such as the woodland has never known.

43 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Forward, then, and stiffen up the feeble knees!"

A murmur of assent came from the men. Even the horses seemed to take fresh heart. They flattened their backs to draw the heavy loads, and blew the frost from their nostrils as they pushed ahead.

The night grew broader and less oppressive. A gate of brightness was opened secretly somewhere in the sky. Higher and higher swelled the clear moon-flood, until it poured over the eastern wall of forest into the road. A drove of wolves howled faintly in the distance, but they were receding, and the sound soon died away. The stars sparkled merrily through the stringent air; the small, round moon shone like silver; little breaths of dreaming wind wandered across the pointed fir-tops, as the pilgrims toiled bravely onward, following their clew of light through a labyrinth of darkness.

After a while the road began to open out a little. There were spaces of meadowland, fringed with alders, behind which a boisterous river ran clashing through spears of ice.

Rude houses of hewn logs appeared in the openings, each one casting a patch of inky shadow upon the snow. Then the travellers passed a larger group of dwellings, all silent and unlighted; and beyond, they saw a great house, with many outbuildings and enclosed courtyards, from which the hounds bayed furiously, and a noise of stamping horses came from the stalls. But there was no other sound of life. The fields around lay naked to the moon. They saw no man, except that once, on a path that skirted the farther edge of a meadow, three dark figures passed them, running very swiftly.

Then the road plunged again into a dense thicket, traversed it, and climbing to the left, emerged suddenly upon a glade, round and level except at the northern side, where a hillock was crowned with a huge oak-tree. It towered above the heath, a giant with contorted arms, beckoning to the host of lesser trees. "Here," cried Winfried, as his eyes flashed and his hand lifted his heavy staff, "here is the Thunderoak; and here the cross of Christ

44 Veez Illustrated Weekly

shall break the hammer of the false god Thor."

The Shadow of the Thunder-Oak Withered leaves still clung to the branches of the oak: torn and faded banners of the departed summer.

The bright crimson of autumn had long since disappeared, bleached away by the storms and the cold.

But to-night these tattered remnants of glory were red again: ancient bloodstains against the dark-blue sky. For an immense fire had been kindled in front of the tree. Tongues of ruddy flame, fountains of ruby sparks, ascended through the spreading limbs and flung a fierce illumination upward and around. The pale, pure moonlight that bathed the surrounding forests was quenched and eclipsed here. Not a beam of it sifted through the branches of the oak. It stood like a pillar of cloud between the still light of heaven and the crackling, flashing fire of earth.

But the fire itself was invisible to Winfried and his companions. A great throng of people were gathered around it in a half-circle, their backs to the open glade, their

faces toward the oak. Seen against that glowing background, it was but the silhouette of a crowd, vague, black, formless, mysterious.

The travellers paused for a moment at the edge of the thicket and took counsel together.

"It is the assembly of the tribe," said one of the foresters, "the great night of the council. I heard of it three days ago, as we passed through one of the villages. All who swear by the old gods have been summoned.

They will sacrifice a steed to the god of war, and drink blood, and eat horseflesh to make them strong. It will be at the peril of our lives if we approach them. At least we must hide the cross, if we would escape death."

"Hide me no cross," cried Winfried, lifting his staff, "for I have come to show it, and to make these blind folk see its power. There is more to be done here to-night than the slaying of a steed, and a greater evil to be stayed than the shameful eating of meat sacrificed to idols. I have seen it in a dream. Here the cross must stand and be our rede."

45 Veez Illustrated Weekly

At his command the sledge was left in the border of the wood, with two of the men to guard it, and the rest of the company moved forward across the open ground. They approached unnoticed, for all the multitude were looking intently toward the fire at the foot of the oak.

Then Winfried's voice rang out, "Hail, ye sons of the forest! A stranger claims the warmth of your fire in the winter night."

Swiftly, and as with a single motion, a thousand eyes were bent upon the speaker. The semicircle opened silently in the middle; Winfried entered with his followers; it closed again behind them.

Then, as they looked round the curving ranks, they saw that the hue of the assemblage was not black, but white, --dazzling, radiant, solemn. White, the robes of the women clustered together at the points of the wide crescent; white, the glittering byrnies of the warriors standing in close ranks; white, the fur mantles of the aged men who held the central palace in the circle; white, with the shimmer of silver

ornaments and the purity of lamb'swool, the raiment of a little group of children who stood close by the fire; white, with awe and fear, the faces of all who looked at them; and over all the flickering, dancing radiance of the flames played and glimmered like a faint, vanishing tinge of blood on snow.

The only figure untouched by the glow was the old priest, Hunrad, with his long, spectral robe, flowing hair and beard, and dead-pale face, who stood with his back to the fire and advanced slowly to meet the strangers.

"Who are you? Whence come you, and what seek you here?"

"Your kinsman am I, of the German brotherhood," answered Winfried, "and from England, beyond the sea, have I come to bring you a greeting from that land, and a message from the All-Father, whose servant I am."

"Welcome, then," said Hunrad, "welcome, kinsman, and be silent; for what passes here is too high to wait and must be done before the moon crosses the middle heaven, unless, indeed, thou hast some sign

46 Veez Illustrated Weekly

or token from the gods. Canst, thou work miracles?"

The question came sharply, as if a sudden gleam of hope had flashed through the tangle of the old priest's mind. But Winfried's voice sank lower, and a cloud of disappointment passed over his face as he replied: "Nay, miracles have I never wrought, though I have heard of many; but the All-Father has given no power to my hands save such as belongs to common man."

"Stand still, then, thou common man," said Hunrad, scornfully, "and behold what the gods have called us hither to do. This night is the deathnight of the sun-god, Baldur the Beautiful, beloved of gods and men.

This night is the hour of darkness and the power of winter, of sacrifice and mighty fear. This night the great Thor, the god of thunder and war, to whom this oak is sacred, is grieved for the death of Baldur, and angry with this people because they have forsaken his worship. Long is it since an offering has been laid upon his altar, long since the roots of his holy tree have been fed with blood.

Therefore, its leaves have withered before the time, and its boughs are heavy with death. Therefore, the Slavs ‘and the Wends have beaten us in battle. Therefore, the harvests have failed, and the wolf-hordes have ravaged the folds, and the strength has departed from the bow, and the wood of the spear has broken, and the wild boar has slain the huntsman. Therefore, the plague has fallen on our dwellings, and the dead are more than the living in all our villages. Answer me, ye people, are not these things true? " A hoarse sound of approval ran through the circle. A chant, in which the voices of the men and women blended, like the shrill wind in the pinetrees above the rumbling thunder of a waterfall, rose and fell in rude cadences.

O Thor, the Thunderer Mighty and merciless, Spare us from smiting!

Heave not thy hammer, Angry, aginst us; Plague not thy people.

Take from our treasure Richest Of ransom.

47 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Silver we send thee, Jewels and javelins, Goodliest garments, All our possessions, Priceless, we proffer.

Sheep will we slaughter, Steeds will we sacrifice; Bright blood shall bathe O tree of Thunder, Life-floods shall lave thee, Strong wood of wonder.

Mighty, have mercy, Smile as no more, Spare us and save us, Spare us, Thor! Thor!

With two great shouts the song ended, and stillness followed so intense that the crackling of the fire was heard distinctly. The old priest stood silent for a moment. His shaggy brows swept down ever his eyes like ashes quenching flame.

Then he lifted his face and spoke.

"None of these things will please the god. More costly is the offering that shall cleanse your sin, more precious the crimson dew that shall send new life into this holy tree of blood. Thor claims your dearest and your noblest gift."

Hunrad moved nearer to the group

of children who stood watching the fire and the swarms of sparkserpents darting upward. They had heeded none of the priest's words, and did not notice now that he approached them, so eager were they to see which fiery snake would go highest among the oak branches. Foremost among them, and most intent on the pretty game, was a boy like a sunbeam, slender and quick, with blithe brown eyes and laughing lips. The priest's hand was laid upon his shoulder. The boy turned and looked up in his face.

"Here," said the old man, with his voice vibrating as when a thick rope is strained by a ship swinging from her moorings, "here is the chosen one, the eldest son of the Chief, the darling of the people. Hearken, Bernhard, wilt thou go to Valhalla, where the hero’s dwell with the gods, to bear a message to Thor?"

The boy answered, swift and clear: "Yes, priest, I will go if my father bids me. Is it far away? Shall I run quickly?

Must I take my bow and arrows for the wolves?"

The boy's father, the Chieftain Gundhar, standing among his

48 Veez Illustrated Weekly

bearded warriors, drew his breath deep, and leaned so heavily on the handle of his spear that the wood cracked. And his wife, Irma, bending forward from the ranks of women, pushed the golden hair from her forehead with one hand. The other dragged at the silver chain about her neck until the rough links pierced her flesh, and the red drops feel unheeded on her breast.

A sigh passed through the crowd, like the murmur of the forest before the storm breaks. Yet no one spoke save Hunrad: "Yes, my Prince, both bow and spear shalt thou have, for the way is long, and thou art a brave huntsman. But in darkness thou must journey for a little space, and with eyes blindfolded. Fearest thou?"

"Naught fear I," said the boy, "neither darkness, nor the great bear, nor the were-wolf. For I am Gundhar's son, and the defender of my folk."

Then the priest led the child in his raiment of lamb's-wool to a broad stone in front of the fire. He gave him his little bow tipped with silver, and his spear with shining head of

steel. He bound the child's eyes with a white cloth and bade him kneel beside the stone with his face to the cast. Unconsciously the wide arc of spectators drew inward toward the centre, as the ends of the bow draw together when the cord is stretched.

Winfried moved noiselessly until he stood close behind the priest.

The old man stooped to lift a black hammer of stone from the ground, --the sacred hammer of the god Thor. Summoning all the strength of his withered arms, he swung it high in the air. It poised for an instant above the child's fair head--then turned to fall.

One keen cry shrilled out from where the women stood: "Me! take me! not Bernhard!"

The flight of the mother toward her child was swift as the falcon's swoop. But swifter still was the hand of the deliverer.

Winfried's heavy staff thrust mightily against the hammer's handle as it fell. Sideways it glanced from the old man's grasp, and the black stone, striking on the altar's edge, split in twain. A shout of awe and joy rolled along the living circle.

49 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The branches of the oak shivered. round her child, and above them, on The flames leaped higher. As the the altar-stone, Winfried, his face shout died away the people saw the shining like the face of an angel. lady Irma, with her arms clasped ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friends of 3L and Govt. Primary School, Panaji

Between the old Education Department building and the Pharmacy College, along the 18th June Road, Panaji, the Government Primary School Ramdas is situated.

It is a Kannada medium primary school from standard one to four.

There are 58 students and two KG students. Four teachers are the staff members. 3 teachers teach all the subjects using the Kannada language. One teacher teaches the English language. All the students are children of migrants from

Karnataka, born and brought up in Goa. Students are very lively and interested in learning. They come to school every day from Porvorim, Bambolim, Chimbel, Betim, Taleigao, and other neighbouring villages on their own by bus. Their parents are illiterate and daily wage workers. Some of them come from the broken families. Hence, the learning for these students must take place in the school only. Once they go home there is nobody to teach or supervise their studies. In

50 Veez Illustrated Weekly

beneficiaries. We have promised them medals for the Best Boy and Best Girl of the year. Similarly, the student has the highest attendance in the school will get a medal. If we get sufficient financial assistance or stationery, we will distribute it to them in the month of June 2024.

From next week twice a month, I will teach these students English through story narration to students of 1V standard. We need young or middle-aged volunteers those who live in the vicinity of Panaji, to teach English, singing through action sings, dancing, drawing, painting, craft, and artworks, etc. to these 3L students. If anybody interested, kindly let me know.

Goa the children of the poorest of poor, attend the government schools. These are the real 3L (least, last, lost) students. In the beginning of the year, we strongly felt that we should do something for these students.

On 11th January 2024, on behalf of the Friends of 3L, two of us reached out to these students and distributed stationary with a carry bag. Each student was given rupees 76/- worth stationery consisting of a long single line book of 200 pages, Pratap Naik, SJ one pencil, one eraser, and a 9850658565 sharpener. 60 students were the ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

51 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Feast of Epiphany

Today the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Epiphany of the Lord. Wrongly and popularly, it is called the Feast of the Three Kings. They were neither kings nor three. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is written, “When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in Judea, during the days of King Herod, wise men from the East arrived in Jerusalem.” (Mt 2:1) We do not know howsny of them came to meet Jesus. From the three types of gifts, we cannot

logically deduce that they were three.

The “wise men” is a popular translation of the word “magi” used

by Matthew. The magi were priests of Zoroastrian religion (Parsee), which used to be the religion of Persia. The Persian magi had a reputation for astrology and magic.

For Matthew, the magi are the highly respected religious leaders, representing non-Jewish religions.

52 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The homage they pay to Jesus contrasts strikingly with the indifference shown him by the people and the religious leaders of his own nation and by the hostility displayed by Herod. We are introduced to the key theme of Matthew’s Gospel: Jesus is rejected by the Jews but accepted by the Gentiles.

Various attempts have been made to identify the star which announces to the magi the birth of the king of the Jews and then leads them to his home. It has been identified as Halley’s comet, as a supernova, as a conjunction of planets Saturn, Jupiter, and Mercury which took place about the time Jesus was born. None of these, of course, would explain the peculiar behaviour of the star in the narrative. It appears, disappears, leads, and then stands over a house.

The narrative of the magi may have been based upon the memory of some spectacular astronomical phenomenon which occurred at the time Jesus was born. More importantly, the star would have reminded Matthew’s readers of the star announced in the prophecy of

Balaam (Nm 24:17). Here the star which comes out of Judah stands for David, but later the prophecy was applied to the Messiah. The star of the magi could be a reference to this prophecy. It could again be telling us that Jesus is the expected Messiah, the true “King of the Jews”.

The magi discovered Jesus. They acknowledged, knelt, and worshipped him as the king, priest, and prophet. They offered to him their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Happy Belated Feast of Epiphany.

Pratapananda Naik, SJ

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

53 Veez Illustrated Weekly

TEDxSAC Unveils Captivating Array of Visionaries for its 2024 event Mangalore, Karnataka, India: TEDxSAC will take place on February 4, 2024, at L F Rasquinha Auditorium, St. Aloysius College (Autonomous), Mangalore from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The independently organized event, licensed by TED, will feature a variety of voices and TED Talk videos under the theme “KOSEI, Let Your Individuality Soar”.

Launched in 2009, TEDx is a program of locally organized events that bring the community together to share a TED-like experience.

Some of the best talks from TEDx events have gone on to be featured on TED.com and garnered millions of views from audiences across the globe.

TEDxSAC is an independently organized TED event brought to you by fruition by an enthusiastic and hardworking team. It is a one-day event where we wish to plant ideas into the minds of our community –

ideas that personify change. This year, TEDxSAC invites you to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and exploration.

With 'Kosei', we will delve deep into the rich canvas of individuality, unlocking the traits that make our individuality soar higher and brighter.

Speakers at TEDxSAC 2024 include: 1. Aarti Malhotra Aarti Malhotra, inspired by her son Arvey's legacy, champions the fight against bullying against the queer community. Committed to fostering open discussions, she envisions a positive society where individuals express themselves freely without fear.

2. Shekhar Naik Shekhar Naik, a Padmashri awardee, stands as a beacon in Indian blind cricket. As the former captain, he

54 Veez Illustrated Weekly

steered the national team to victory in two T20 World Cups, showcasing that

unwavering

passion,

dedication, and hard work can propel

individuals

to

triumph,

irrespective of the challenges they encounter.

An accomplished content creator, Neeraj Chaudhary is known for his versatile content revolving around adventures,

fitness,

filmmaking.

His

evident

3. Fr. Saju George SJ Jesuit, and Founder Director of Kalahrdaya,

is

a

renowned

Bharatanatyam dancer with 2000+ performances Kathakali

and

and

global

Kathak,

his

journey beautifully blends faith and art, revealing universal potential.

4. Vicky Roy Former

rag

picker

from

West

Salaam Baalak Trust, became a photographer.

MIT

Media Fellowship in 2014, Forbes Asia

30

under

dedication

is

his

numerous

muscleblaze as a sponsored athlete, solidifying his reputation as a reliable

&

innovative

content

creator.

6. Dikshith Rai A

fellow

St.

Aloysius

College

alumnus, Dikshith Raj is the CEO of CodeCraft Technologies, a creative engineering company that solves

Bengal, Vicky Roy, rehabilitated by celebrated

and

brands and his association with

lectures. Versatile in dance forms like

through

travel,

brand collaborations with leading

Fr. Saju George SJ, the dancing

solo

5. Neeraj Chaudhary

30

in

2016,

documented World Trade Center's reconstruction, and acclaimed solo

business problems through design and

technology.

Technologies

CodeCraft

partners

with

businesses across diverse domains with their solutions being featured

by Global tech companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Intel.

7. Karthik Chennoji Rao

exhibitions like 'Home Street Home.'

55 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Karthik Chennoji Rao, or KC, artfully

etched her name in history as the

intertwines his Mangalore heritage

first Kashmiri contestant on the

into lively music. Transitioning from

prestigious

EdTech to music, KC positively

Beyond the culinary realm, Dr.

influences remote schools while

Rukhsaar is also an entrepreneur

garnering accolades in Kannada

who founded “Khalis”, a frozen food

films.

Express’s

venture. Her journey embodies an

frontman, he spreads joy through

inspiring narrative of overcoming

nationwide

barriers and crafting a delectable

As

Pineapple tours,

delivering

uplifting, multilingual melodies.

MasterChef

India.

success story.

8. Pramodini Roul Pramodini Roul, an acid attack

10.

Aashna Rai

survivor, embodies resilience and

A student at St. Aloysius College

hope in the face of unimaginable

(Autonomous) joined the NCC unit

adversity. Refusing to be defined by

in 8th grade and later, continued

her scars, Roul strives to help others

NCC service during her PUC days.

like her. Today, Roul, alongside her

She was selected as Karnataka and

mother, runs the Sheroes Hangout

Goa Directorate's best cadet to

Café, providing a safe haven for

represent the Directorate at the

others. Despite her unimaginable

national level in Republic Day Camp

pain, her story embodies triumph

at New Delhi. she was awarded the

over adversity, inspiring others to

Best Cadet and received the PM

embrace hope and resilience.

Baton

and

Honorable 9. Dr. Rukhsaar Sayeed Dr. Rukhsaar Sayeed, a trailblazing Kashmiri food technologist, has

Medal Prime

from

the

Minister

Shri

Narendra Modi. She has been chosen to represent India as a Youth Ambassador at YEP in Vietnam.

56 Veez Illustrated Weekly

For more information and to book your tickets, please visit https://tedxsac.in/ For any queries contact: Diya Mascarenhas -7348928710 / tedx.staloysius@gmail.com

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep

discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event.

The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)

About TED TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading, often in the form of short talks delivered by leading thinkers and doers. Many of these talks are given at TED Conferences, intimate

57 Veez Illustrated Weekly

TED Salons, and thousands of independently organised TEDx events around the world. Videos of these talks are made available, free, on TED.com and other platforms.

Audio versions of TED Talks are published to TED Talks Daily, available on all podcast platforms.

ideas that have the potential to

TED's open and free initiatives for

program that reimagines TED Talks

spreading ideas include TED.com, where new TED Talk videos are posted daily; TEDx, which licenses thousands of individuals and groups to host local, self-organized TEDstyle events around the world; the TED

Fellows program,

which

selects innovators from around the globe to amplify the impact of their remarkable

projects

and

activities; The Audacious Project, which surfaces and funds critical

impact

millions

Translators

of

lives; TED

Program,

which

crowdsources the subtitling of TED Talks so that big ideas can spread across languages and borders; and the educational initiative TED-Ed. TED

also

offers TED@Work a

for workplace learning. TED also has a

growing

podcasts,

library

of

including The

Interview with

original TED Chris

Anderson, WorkLife

with

Adam

Grant, Far

with

Saleem

Flung

Reshamwala and How to Be a Better Human.

Follow

TED

on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and on LinkedIn.

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

58 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Rohan Corporation stepping into the 31st year;

10% discount on Rohan City and other Projects Rohan Corporation is stepping in to the 31st year of Business on January 14, 2024. On this auspious occasion

Rohan

Corporation

is

offering 10% discount on Rohan City, Rohan Square, Rohan Estates, and other projects. This offer is valid till January 31, 2024.

59 Veez Illustrated Weekly

‘Rohan City’, rising on an area of about 3.5 acres on Bejai Main Road, is the largest and most privileged project of Rohan Corporation so far.

It is a vibrant development featuring a 6 lakh square feet residential area, consists of 546 apartments. The residential options cater to different needs with Duplex, 4 BHK, 6 BHK, 1405 to 1900 square feet 3 BHK, 1075 to 1135 square feet 2 BHK, and 700 to 815 square feet 1 BHK of living

space.

Alongside

the

residential area, there is a 2 lakh 60 Veez Illustrated Weekly

outlet

safety and all conveniences in

comprising 284 individual units. To

Mangalore city itself. It is a home to

ensure convenient parking, the

several temples, the famous St

development

a

Francis Xavier Church, Kadri Park

mechanized parking system that

and Karnataka Polytechnic. Bejai,

accommodates both two-wheelers

despite being in the heart of the

and

city, is renowned for its clean

square

feet

commercial

features

four-wheelers,

efficient

and

providing

secure

parking

environment

and

serene

facilities. With its well-designed

atmosphere. It is often referred to as

residential and commercial spaces,

a place characterized by art, culture,

coupled with a modern parking

and various sports activities. Bejai is

system,

particularly

‘Rohan

City’

offers

a

noteworthy

for

the

seamless and convenient living

harmonious coexistence of people

environment for residents and a

from

thriving

backgrounds, who live in close

business

hub

for

different

religious

brotherhood. St Aloysius College,

commercial ventures.

Bejai is an area known for its

Lourdes Central School, SDM Law

61 Veez Illustrated Weekly

College, KSRTC Bus Stand are within

Diesel

Generators

walking distance. Several hospitals

power

change

are close by incase of emergency.

Advanced security system • Electric

The airport is 10 km away and is well

car charging points • Designed

connected by road. ‘Rohan City’ is

Landscape Spaces • Solid waste

equipped

with

all

modern

management System • Solar PV

amenities.

Surveillance,

security

Panels

system,

uninterrupted

water

&

•

•

Automatic

over

Lighting

system

•

Automation

feature (First time in Mangaluru)

electricity, ample parking, gardens

Features of World Class Club:

and walking paths are arranged. Has

• Fully air conditioned reception &

commercial outlets to complement

spacious

profitable business growth.

restaurant • Coffee shop • Indoor

Features of ‘Rohan City’ : •

games

lounges •

Basketball

•

Family court

•

35000 sq ft Hyper Market in 2 levels

Badminton court • Video games

• 2 escalator for commercial space •

zone • Fully equipped gym • Spa,

Residential,

hotels,

unisex saloon • Ayurvedic wellness

and ample

centre • 3D theatre • Multi-purpose

parking, all under one roof • Luxury

hall • Swimming pool • Jogging

facilities in the heart of Mangalore

track • Senior citizen park • Kids play

at

area

commercial,

club, swimming pool,

affordable

prices

•

Project

approved by major national banks •

• Library • Students activity

room & many more.

Quick loan facility from leading

Rohan Monteiro stepped into

banks • 100% power backup with

the real estate industry at a young

62 Veez Illustrated Weekly

highly favourable investment destination,

boasting

numerous

advantages for investors. With its abundant commercial units, the city provides an exceptional platform for entrepreneurs,

startups,

and

age and today has grown to

established businesses alike. The

become the Managing Director of

availability of diverse commercial

'Rohan Corporation'. His dedication

spaces allows entrepreneurs to find

and hard work in the profession has

the perfect setting to launch their

enabled him to build a vast real

ventures, while also catering to the

estate Company. Rohan Monteiro

expansion

as a producer has earned the

businesses. Moreover, investors can

admiration of consumers for his

seize the opportunity to acquire

meticulousness,

commercial

neatness,

and

needs

of

existing

properties

and

thoroughness in all his work. Rohan

capitalize on the city’s thriving

Monteiro

construction

business environment. By investing

company at a high level, building

in ‘Rohan City’, individuals can

renowned mega residential and

secure commercial properties and

commercial

in

benefit from a stable rental market,

Mangalore city, staying in the

ensuring a steady stream of income.

limelight,

Additionally,

led

his

complexes and

having

satisfied

the

city’s

positive

clients. Presently Rohan Estate in

economic trajectory and growth

Pakshikere and Kulasekera, Rohan

prospects

Enclave and Avenue in Suratkal have

appeal for long-term investors. With

been completed and Rohan Square

a

in Kapitaneo near Pumpwell is in

opportunities, and a conducive

final stages of construction.

business ecosystem, ‘Rohan City’

‘Rohan City’ has emerged as a

robust

further

enhance

market,

its

ample

stands as an attractive choice for

63 Veez Illustrated Weekly

those looking to make sound

or call 9845490100 / 9845607725 /

investments and reap the rewards of

9036392628 / 9845607724. For

a vibrant and prosperous urban

more information, please visit the

center.

website

For

more

details,

contact

at

www.rohancity.in

/

www.rohancorporation.in.

Rohan City, Bijay Main Road Office, ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rev. Msgr. Duming Dias is the new Bishop of Diocese of Karwar

January 13,2024: His Holiness Pope Francis has appointed Rev. Msgr.

Duming Dias of the Clergy of the Diocese of Shimoga, presently the

Director of Diocesan Centre for Pastoral Renewal ‘SANNIDHI' at

64 Veez Illustrated Weekly

at noon, Corresponding to 16:30 hrs, Indian Standard Time.

Bishop Elect, Msgr. Duming Dias was born on September 3,1969 at Honnavar to Mr. Ambrose and Mrs. Marceline Dias. He did his Bachelor of Philosophy in St. Peter's Pontifical Seminary, Bengaluru and Bachelor of Theology in St. Joseph's InterDiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, affiliated to Urbaniana University, Rome. He was Ordained a priest for the Diocese of Shimoga on May 6,1997.

Shivamogga, as the Bishop of Diocese of Karwar.

This provision was made public in Rome on Saturday, 13 January 2024

Msgr. Duming Dias is a Spiritfilled, dedicated as well as Pastoral minded Priest. He is friendly person and Simple by nature and humble in his approach. The Bishop, Clergy, Religious as well as faithful if Diocese of Shimoga congratulates

65 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Rev. Msgr. Duming Dias on his appointment and wish him all the Report by success in his new mission as the Fr Franklin D’Souza Bishop of Diocese of Karwar.

Clergy of the Diocese of Shimoga ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Inquisition in India Revisited

Recently a You-Tube video circulated on the net entitled “Colonial Hangover & Christian Bias - How all Christians of KA

voted BJP out.” This should be of interest to Goans and Mangaloreans and other IndoLusitanian groups.

66 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Savio Rodrigues I Colonial Hangover & Christian Bias - How all Christians of KA voted BJP out This topic also coincides with recent moves made by Prime Minister Modi to develop cordial relation with Christians … some say considering the election in Northeast India which has a significant Christian population.

The host and guest did a good job, under the glare of cameras and technical difficulties, of covering the issues of colonial inquisition, current persecution of Christians in India, and the recent political impact. Yet from their dialog it would appear neither of them read the Bangalore based historian's book. Goa’s

Inquisition: facts, fiction, factoids.

2022 by Machado, (Prabhu) Alan.

Sadly, many who comment on the Inquisition have also not read this recent book, available in India.

The first glaring claim was the free intermixing of the terms Inquisition and Persecution.

Here are some comments:

The above interview suggests the urgent need for all of us to educate our neighbors, friends, and peers about our culture and history to prevent persistence or spread of misinformation. In 2024, for us to do so, it is incumbent on us to know our history, and stop passing on hand-me-down oral accounts.

Many have spent much time and energy to put this information together. But that information must move from books and periodical to daily life and knowledge. And only we individually can read it and pass it on. From personal experience those efforts help us in our own work environment and life.

Persecution and Inquisition were used to target separate groups to achieve different results. The inquisition was introduced in Portugal in 1536 and extended to OT in 1560. In both, it was a lawand-order system, where inquisitor was appointed by Portugal’s king and solely responsible to him. The inquisitor did NOT report to church officials in Lisbon or Goa. In Machado’s update, for the entire period of the inquisition in the

67 Veez Illustrated Weekly

overseas territories 1560 to 1812 (252 years) a total of 177 persons underwent capital punishment and 154 burnt in effigy. Capital penalty average of seven per decade, for a society under existential threat in the 48+ footholds is well below what would be expected. Among those investigated by the inquisition were the behaviors of captain, chieffinance officers, acting and appointed viceroys, soldiers, tradesmen, and priests.

As Machado emphasizes, the Inquisition did not condemn any Hindus for capital punishment.

Extracted from: Insights into Colonial Goa

by Philomena and Gilbert Lawrence Published by Amazon and Kindle in soft cover and e-book.

Christians in India and in the diaspora are the victims of authors who have written our history and commentary with the baggage of being Indophile, Lusophile or Anglophile, bringing out their biases (anti-Christian, antiPortuguese, and/or anti-colonial).

Yet before we can educate others about us, we must educate

ourselves. In 2024, we must stop recounting hand-me-down oral accounts. We need to rely on wellresearched and modern books about our history and culture that analyzes the contemporary events both in India and across the world as they impacted on local events. Every effort needs to be made to separate fiction from fact like: 1. Displacement of Indo-Lusitanians occurred from the early days of colonization, mostly due to wars and to a lesser extent famines and epidemics. The frequent wars were with Indian rulers (Bijapur sultan, and Marathas) and European powers (Dutch and British). Those from the Bassein region moved to Bombay and its suburbs along with their language (a dialect of Marathi) to ultimately form the East Indian community.

Those from Goa moved along with their Konkani language to South Kanara to form the Mangalorean community. These migrations were NOT related to the Inquisition in Goa. 2. Per historian Machado’s review of primary data, in the 250 years of the

68 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Inquisition “none of the capital punishment cases were Hindus or non-Christians," 3. Goa has a long history of foreign rulers being INVITED to the region because of animosity among natives either at the palace or the people.

with hand-me-down stories, sometimes to exhibit their false intellectual liberalism. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but no one is entitled to their own facts (Daniel Patrick Moynihan US Senator).

Best wishes for the New Year.

Some engage in religion-bashing Gilbert Lawrence.

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

69 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The Farewell Program

The Annual Day programme at St Agnes PU College was celebrated with grandeur on 23 November

2023 at the college grounds. The chief guest Dr PL Dharma, Professor and Chairman, Department of

70 Veez Illustrated Weekly

71 Veez Illustrated Weekly

72 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Political Science, Mangalore University, Dr Sr Maria Roopa A.C., Joint Secretary, St Agnes Institutions and President of the day, PTA Vice President Prof Joslyn Lobo and PTA Joint Secretary Dr Divya Damodar, PTA executive committee members and all the dignitaries present on

the occasion were accorded an effusive welcome with a ceremonial guard of honour.

The Principal Sr Norine DSouza welcomed the august gathering and introduced the chief guest. Prof PL Dharma addressed the audience and spoke on how proud he felt at the achievements of the girls and urged society to be the wind beneath their wings. He applauded the institution and its faculty for the encouraging and enabling

73 Veez Illustrated Weekly

ambience it has created. He pointed out that girls are the true wealth of the nation, and they face immense challenges. He exhorted the girls to work towards achieving all their dreams, but to make sure that above all they become good human beings. His insightful message on the occasion served to enhance the vibrant atmosphere. The presence of the PTA members highlighted the collaborative efforts of the parents and the college. The chief guest Dr PL Dharma, the guest of honour Sr Dr Maria Roopa A.C. and the Principal Sr Norine DSouza presided over the felicitation ceremony to honour the students who had excelled in academics, sports and have contributed in several ways to the overall growth of the college through their dynamism and selfless efforts. Ms Wencita Dias, Cine star and alumna of the college was honoured on the occasion in recognition of her noteworthy contributions to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Ms Shriraksha S H, a student of II PUC Science was also felicitated for her remarkable achievements in the fields of Indian classical dance and music. Ms Alisha Thimaiah a student

of II PUC Arts was accorded praise and honours for her special achievement at the State Level Youth Parliament Competition where she won ‘The Best Parliamentarian’ award.

Academic high-flyers, outstanding National Level sports achievers, team captains, the cabinet members were also acclaimed underscoring the commitment of the college in nurturing both scholastic and extracurricular excellence. The best outgoing students Ms Gowthami S from the Science stream, Ms Aysha Zyma from the Arts stream, Ms Kadeeja Noha from the Commerce stream were honoured for their brilliance and dedicated service to the college. Ms Archi Girish Kumar from the Commerce stream was awarded ‘Best Outgoing Student’ by the PTA. The cultural programmes were a mesmerizing blend of talent and creativity. A thought-provoking English tableau, a Kannada dance drama on Venerable Mother Veronica the founder of Apostolic Carmel Congregation and her inspiring journey of educating and enlightening girls, a dance performance embodying the

74 Veez Illustrated Weekly

qualities of courage and valour Mrs Joanne Sheethal, Dept. of through the story of Arunima Sinha, English proposed the vote of melodious musical renditions and thanks. dazzling dance performances Mrs Joanne Sheethal and Dr P V enthralled the audience and Shobha, the convenors of the event showcased a symphony of colours meticulously planned the event and diversity. under the able guidance of the Mrs Supriya Shenoy, Dept. of Principal Sr Norine DSouza. The Physics was the charismatic host for resounding success of College Day the formal function, Ms Prival exemplifies the spirit of cooperation DSouza, Ms Kadeeja Noha and Ms and the diligent efforts of the faculty Alisha Thimaiah served as and students and illustrates the scintillating emcees for the cultural values of the institution that lie at cornucopia of events and steered the core of its educational ethos. the programme with grace and élan.

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

75 Veez Illustrated Weekly

‘Sensitivity’

lifts

‘Limitation of Senses’

76 Veez Illustrated Weekly

the

On December 17, 2023, Dhyana Jyothi Trust organized a Christmas Celebration for the differently abled and visually impaired in Bengaluru at Holy Ghost Church Hall. The event aimed at bringing the joy of

Christ the newborn king into the lives of these special people who often face challenges and hardships in their daily lives due to their physical limitations.

The event was attended by more

77 Veez Illustrated Weekly

than over 100 handicapped and blind personnel, along with their families and friends. The event was also beautified by the presence of many people of goodwill who came to support and encourage the

participants. The program was inaugurated by the lighting of the lamp; it was lit by Dr. Nimmy Shetty Famous Dental Surgeon, Silvian Noronha Well known Businessman, and former chairman of FKCA,

78 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Anant Nayak - Manager-South Indian Bank cox town, Fr. Ivan Dsouza Newly elected Director of Dhyana Jyothi Trust, Fr. Bonaventure Rodrigues, Fr. Ivan Rodrigues, Fr. Stephen Perera, the chief guests for the celebration.

Prominent individuals from fields, such as education, social work, and media were present for the event.

The chief guests Dr Nimmy Shetty, a dental Surgeon by profession and a philanthropist at heart, Mr. Anant

79 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Nayak, Manager, South Indian Bank, Cox Town, Mr. Silvian Noronha, Former Chairman of FKCA, Bengaluru, Fr Rudolph D'Souza, Carmelite Priest from Canada delivered inspiring speeches, highlighting the importance of celebrating the spirit of Christmas with love, compassion, and gratitude. They also appreciated the efforts and talents of the differently abled and urged them to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

The stage program consisted of a variety of dances and songs, performed by the participants themselves. They showcased their skills and enthusiasm and received applause and cheers from the audience. The most significant part of the celebration was the melodious singing of the carols by a team of blind inmates, who touched the hearts of everyone with their beautiful voices and expressions.

The guests were felicitated with bouquets and mementos, as a token of appreciation and respect. The Christmas cake was cut and shared with everyone; gifts were given to the families of the handicapped and

blind people, as a gesture of goodwill and generosity. The entry of Santa Claus brought excitement to the hall, and everyone cherished clicking pictures and interacting with the Old Christmas Father; spot games that were conducted brought out the lucky ones among the groups, who were given attractive prizes. The event ended with a sumptuous meal, in which everyone partook joyously.

The Christmas Celebration was a memorable and meaningful event that brought happiness and hope to the differently abled and blind people. It also demonstrated the spirit of solidarity and goodwill that is present among the members of the Catholic Church, who has contributed generously to the wellbeing of these differently abled and blind individuals. Their assistance has helped make their lives better and have saved them from a lot of hardship. Dhyana Jyothi Trust remains earnestly grateful to the benefactors and well-wishers for their sincere collaboration with Rev. Fr. Stephen Perera, the Director of the Trust and Mrs. Nelly Prichard, Coordinator of Dhyana Jyothi Trust;

80 Veez Illustrated Weekly

if not for the kind hearts of the day, and another beautiful smile generous donors, such a celebration would not have blossomed on the would not have seen the light of the faces of these differently abled!

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

The Kudla - Aussie connection!!!!

Urmila Rosario from Kinnigoli, Mangalore is the team Manager of the Australian cricket team Urmila is the daughter of Mr. Valentine Rosario & Ms. Ivy Rosario from Kinnigoli. A sportsperson from her childhood days, Urmila had worked with the Qatar Tennis Federation for 3 years. In Australia, she first worked with the Adelaide cricket team for about 3 years. Later, 81 Veez Illustrated Weekly

she was moved to the Australian men’s team just for the World Cup women’s cricket team as team assignment and later she will rejoin manager. During the last Football the women’s cricket team soon and World Cup, she took leave from will accompany it when they tour cricket and managed a football India in December. stadium in Qatar for 4 months. On #mangaloreinstagram her return to Australia from Qatar in #mangaloremerijaan September this year, she was asked #nammatulunad #kudla #australia to take care of the Australian men’s #worldcup #indiancricket #cricket cricket team during their World Cup #worldcup2023 #indiavsaustralia tour. She had accompanied the ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Honoring the Literary Legacy of Edwin D'Souza:

A Tribute by St. Aloysius College

82 Veez Illustrated Weekly

83 Veez Illustrated Weekly

D'Souza's literary legacy through the thoughtful exploration and appreciation of his extensive body of work.

In a poignant tribute to the late Konkani literary stalwart Edwin D'Souza, Dr. Fr. Praveen Martis S.J., Principal of St. Aloysius College, emphasized the enduring impact of literature as a fitting homage to the revered author. The tribute program took place at the 'Sahodaya' Hall of St. Aloysius College.

Dr. Martis acknowledged the significant contributions of Edwin D'Souza, who penned over 33 novels and more than 100 short stories, enriching Konkani literature.

He urged attendees to perpetuate

During the commemorative event, various initiatives were announced, including the digitization of Edwin D'Souza's complete works, transliteration of selected pieces from Kannada script into Devanagari, translation of his distinguished literary works into multiple Indian languages, and the adaptation of his selected short stories into theatrical genres like 'Katharanga.'

Organized under the leadership of St. Aloysius College (Autonomous) Konkani Institute, in collaboration with Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi, Vishwa Konkani Center Shaktinagar, Michael D'Souza Vision Konkani, and Raknno Weekly, the program aimed to ensure the perpetuity of D'Souza's literary contributions.

84 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Dr. Praveen Martis paid homage to Edwin J. F. D’Souza who served as the director of the Konkani Institute for approximately 11 years. D'Souza also served as the editor of 35 issues of 'Amar Konkani,' the sole Konkani research monthly published in Kannada and Devanagari scripts for the past four decades. St. Aloysius College expressed profound respect for D'Souza's enduring impact.

Prominent figures present at the event included Sahitya Akademi Executive Committee Member and Konkani Advisory Committee Head Mr. Melwyn Rodrigues, World Konkani Center Dr. B. Devdas Pai, 'SAACA' President Mr Sunil Kunder, Registrar of St Aloysius College Dr. Alwyn D'Sa, and President of Konkani Writers and Artists Association Mr. Ronald Sequeira, Program Coordinator, Institute of Konkani Mr Joachim Pinto each offering their tributes.

Kishu Barkur, an authority in Konkani literature, shared insights on how to keep D'Souza's memory alive through the study of his Dr. Fr. Melwyn Pinto S.J., Director of literary works. Dr. Chandralekha the Konkani Institute, conveyed a D'Souza, retired Head of the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude Department of Konkani at Goa to all participants. The program was University, spoke on D'Souza's gracefully compered by Konkani acclaimed works, including the literature journalist H. M. Pernal, Central Literary Award-winning underscoring the significance of 'Kallem Bhangar' and the preserving and celebrating Edwin existentialist masterpiece 'Hamv D'Souza's rich literary legacy.

Jeeyetham.'

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

St Agnes PU College Champions: Scripting History In the dynamic world of sports, our

Tennis,

athletes

have

Volleyball,

exceptional

competence

showcased and

Throw

ball,

Basketball,

Football,

Wrestling,

Karate, Floor ball and more.

determination in various disciplines, with notable achievements in Table

At the State Level Free Style

85 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Wrestling

Tournament

held

Karwar,

Anusha

Ananya

dedication to the sport is very

Ashokan garnered the third prize in

praiseworthy and the win displays

the 53 kg weight category and in the

their skill and tenacity.

76

kg

weight

and

category,

at

clinched

the

third

prize. Their

Noha

clinched the first place and has been selected for the National Level.

These girls have proved their mettle and ensured that they are a force to reckon with.

In

the

Taluk

Tournament

Level

Throwball

organized

by

St

Aloysius P U College, the college team secured the Second Place, and Anusha secured the ‘Best Receiver’ In the State Level Belt Wrestling

award. Anusha, Kripa and Brinita

Tournament held at Bangalore,

have been duly selected for the

Anusha has emerged as winner

District Level.

having secured the prestigious first place in the 45 kg weight category.

Additionally, she has qualified for the National Level. Deeksha’s stellar performance

earned

her

the

‘numero uno’ place and she too has been selected for the National Level.

Prajna got second place, while Archi 86 Veez Illustrated Weekly

In the District Level Table Tennis Tournament

organized

by

Govindadasa P U College; the District Team emerged victorious.

Our students Nahla Fathima and Prapthi were a part of the team and

doubles and Third Place in the Team Event. She also won the First Place in Team and Doubles and Third Place in singles in the Mysore Dasara Cup conducted by Karnataka Olympic Association.

Nahla Fathima has been selected for the State Level.

In the Taluk Level Table Tennis

The girls have demonstrated a

Tournament

commendable

organized

by

competitive

spirit

Govindadasa P U College, our

and their achievements are a source

college team secured the second

of inspiration to other aspiring table

place. Nahla Fathima and Prapthi

tennis enthusiasts.

were selected for the District Level.

In the Dasara Cup Table Tennis Tournament conducted by DYES, Mysore, Nahla Fathima secured the Second

Place

in

Table

Tennis

In the District Level Throwball Tournament, the team bagged the First Place and Kripa has been selected for the State Level.

87 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Tournament

organized

by

Sri

Ramakrishna P U College, our Volleyball Team bagged the Second Place. Huligemma secured the ‘best All Rounder’ award. Huligemma, Tanvi and Vaishnavi have been selected for the District Level.

In

the

Alosiad

Throwball

and

Volleyball Match organized by St Aloysius College, Autonomous, our college Team secured the Second Place. Anusha was the recipient of the

‘Best

Receiver’

Throwball and

award

in

Huligemma

was

awarded the ‘Best All Rounder’ in Volleyball.

In the District Level Volleyball Tournament, garnered

the

the

District

First

Place

Team and

Huligemma is selected for the State Level.

In the Taluk Level Volleyball

In the District Level Football

88 Veez Illustrated Weekly

Tournament, Rimin and Saanvi are

selected for the National Level.

selected for the State Level.

Anusha and Ananya bagged the Third

place.

In

Belt

Wrestling

Anusha, Deeksha, Ananya, Archi and Prajna bagged the First Place and are selected for the State Level.

Our college had the proud privilege of

hosting

the

District

Level

Wrestling Tournament in which our college won the ‘Winners Trophy’. In Free Style Wrestling Ananya, Noha, Anusha, Deeksha, Prerana garnered the First Place and have been selected for the State Level.

In

the

District

Level

Floorball

selection match held at Yedapadavu PU College our student Moksha has qualified for the State Level.

In

the

State

Level Free

Style

Wrestling Tournament organised by Halyal PU College, Karwar, Noha garnered the First Place and is 89 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The

played

Prapthi won the Second Place in

exceptionally well and made a

Shot put and is selected for the

significant impact and displayed

District Level. Sanovar garnered the

their finesse and solidified their

Second Place in Discus Throw and is

presence in this field by securing

selected for the District Level. She

coveted positions.

also won the Third Place in Shot put.

In

students

the

have

District

Tournament

Level

Karate

organised

by

Department of School Education,

Risha secured the Second Place in 1500 meters race and is selected for the District Level.

Pre- University, Dakshina Kannada held at S.D.P.T PU College, Kateel.

Shrika clinched the Gold Medal in the Kumite Category.

The scintillating accomplishments of our sports achievers are evidence of their fierce commitment to the sport.

Shrika’s relentless dedication and disciplined

training

has

reaped

dividends and is an indication of her indomitable spirit.

In the District Level Basketball Tournament organized by Canara PU College, our team won the Runners’ Up Trophy. Prival, Zaha

In the Taluk Level Athletic Meet

and

organized by Sharada PU College,

dedication

Thanglalkim’s

90 Veez Illustrated Weekly

and

relentless

discipline

has

resulted in their selection for the

underscore the commitment of St

State Level Tournament.

Agnes PU College to foster a healthy and

well-rounded

environment.

sporting

The success of our

rising sports stars not only give us a feeling of pride, but also serves as an inspiration for our students. As we celebrate these triumphs, we look forward to continued success The achievements of our students

in the field of sports.

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

Celebrating Constitutionality!

- *Fr. Cedric Prakash SJ

Rosary School in Vadodara (Baroda) Gujarat is one of the premier educational institutions of the State.

It is co-educational and run by the Society of Jesus. It caters to about 2,300 students from all walks of life.

The school that was begun in 1935,

provides quality education to make students women and men ‘for others’! It also boasts of alumni, who have contributed significantly to the nation- in public service, sports, and academia and research engagements and in other important spheres. It is therefore, not without reason, that Rosary School, is much sought -after by parents, for the education of their children.

On 4 November 2023, the school had its Annual School Day Celebrations. The first part, which lasted for about an hour, was

91 Veez Illustrated Weekly

devoted to customary items like lighting of the lamp, prayer dance (performed beautifully by the School Staff), the Principal’s Report, the Chief Guest’s speech, the prize distribution etc. Then one would naturally have expected the ‘traditional’ items of song, dance and playlets to hold fort the ‘normal’ stage presentations so typical on such Annual Days!

But NO! The massive gathering: parents, alumni, well-wishers, and friends of the institution were treated to a performance, which few will ever forget! The theme of the Annual Day was ‘Promoting and Safeguarding the Constitutional Values.’ The huge backdrop catchingly emblazoned the theme with a picture of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the father of the Constituent Assembly and a picture of the Constitution of India. The entire programme, which went on for a

non-stop two hours, highlighted the four non-negotiable values of the Constitution: justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It was a moving spectacle in song, dance, and mime. Class after class (from the KG to Std. XII) they came; they regaled, engaged and conscientized the audience in meaningful ways.

More than seven hundred students participated in a performance, which was simply brilliant, touching and heart stopping.

The tiny tots of the kindergarten set the ball rolling. They were all beautifully dolled up in the image and likeness of those who fought for India’s freedom and ensured India’s independence from colonial rule on 15 August 1947. The children confidently paraded in royal style, to the cheers of the audience and with the commentator highlighting the significant role each of these played in making India a free nation.

From a miniMahatma Gandhi to Jhansi ki Rani: they were all there! It was an out- of –this world performance by tiny tots, who helped bring back memories of those who sacrificed so much for our freedom.

92 Veez Illustrated Weekly

The audience was then transported to 29 August 1947, with the appointment of the seven members to be on Drafting Committee for the new Constitution. The members of this Drafting Committee were certainly look-alikes of the original.

The student who played the role of Ambedkar was certainly a ‘chotta’ version of the original. The accents and articulations of each of these members, besides their names, magnificently communicated their cultural and ethnic backgrounds, which spoke volumes of the wealth of diversity in India. They were the link that bonded the entire programme. It was evident that painstaking research was put in, to ensure that this group of students would create the necessary impact.

Against the background of these stalwarts discussing the key values of the Constitution: the students

came out in groups (according to their classes) and poignantly highlighted through ‘real life’ incidents why these values are fundamental for a thriving democracy and of how directly and indirectly they are being violated daily. The discrimination of the girl child, for one, so rampant in the country today, was brought to the fore. The ‘father’ of the child, whilst emphasising ‘gender equality’ very proudly stated that “my daughter is

not tension’ but equal to ‘ten sons’!

Other forms of discrimination and injustice that are being mainstreamed in the country were also brought to the fore. Corruption in public and private places, certainly made the audience wince.

The need for and importance of communal harmony and peace, for fraternity was depicted of how people are conveniently targeted because of their beliefs, customs, and practices. The programmes touched upon several other grim realities and Constitutional violations, which thrive in the country today. The mimes were all topical and would surely have made many from the audience say to themselves, “yes all this is true; what

93 Veez Illustrated Weekly

the children are demonstrating, is happening on a daily basis!”

As part of the diversity of India, there was an entire sequence of Indian dances. It was an enchanting performance by the students, who came out in gusto, dancing their hearts out to the words, tunes, and steps of the various states of the country. They showed all how beautifully different the country is; of why we need to appreciate and learn from each other, of why above all, we all need to celebrate pluralism and differences!

The entire programme was painstakingly and meticulously choreographed; the commentary and voiceovers showed that much care was taken to be as factual as possible. The costumes of the children were besides being beautiful, were also very tasteful.

The slides, which came on and off, as a backgrounder, were not merely educative but helped in setting the tone for what was being enacted.

The ambience, the music (sounds) and the lightning clearly showed that even a children’s programme could have professional perfection.

It was no ordinary run-of-the-mill Annual Day; it was a student’s performance ‘par excellence’!

‘Celebrating Constitutionality’ was certainly a feeling that one took home after witnessing such a wonderful performance. Fr. Patrick Arockiam S J , the Principal of Rosary School since 2019, is the brains behind this extra-ordinary programme. He has no hesitation in commending the excellent and selfless support from his entire staff, the whole-hearted cooperation of the parents, the alumni, and above all, the enthusiasm, and the willingness of all the children to venture into and participate in a pathbreaking programme. In his typical unassuming manner, Fr Patrick states, “I was keen on such

on such a programme because it is the need of the hour’; it is an effort to instil in the children the sanctity

94 Veez Illustrated Weekly

of the Constitution and to help them imbibe the values and the spirit enshrined in them. This should be high up on the priority for all educationists. When I put it across to my staff, they agreed with me one hundred percent and gave their best in ensuring that it materialised in such a wonderful way!” The practices (during school hours) went for about three weeks. Incidentally, at the daily Assembly of the Rosary School, the students recite the Preamble of the Constitution, and most have memorised it by now.

Rosary School has surely shown the way for all other educational institutions throughout the country, to do likewise. It would be interesting to see how many schools will do so. The Constitution is the only sacred book for a citizen of India. The values enshrined in them are non-negotiable and must be internalised by all children from the moment they enter the portals of an educational institution. The sanctity of the Constitution of India today, however, is not only being trampled upon and desecrated, but being torn to shreds. Educationists need to exert a powerful and defining

direction by taking up cudgels to promote and safeguard Constitutional values. They should regard it as their primary duty.

On the eve of the enactment of the Constitution, 25 November 1949, in a passionate speech to the Constituent Assembly, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the father of our Constitution, gave three unambiguous warnings: the need to give up the grammar of anarchy, to avoid hero-worship, and to work towards a social – not just a political – democracy! Ambedkar was, at that time, perhaps visioning what India could possibly become in 2023, and how these three aspects could not only destroy all that was sacred in the Constitution but could result in the dismantling of the democratic framework. In a powerful interview recently (13 November) in ‘The Wire’ with Karan Thapar, one of the

95 Veez Illustrated Weekly

foremost scholars of the Indian Constitution Prof Tarunabh Khaitan, professor of Public Law at the London School of Economics says “Modi has ‘Killed the Constitution by a 1000 Cuts’. He states, “many of

India’s political parties and institutions have sleepwalked into (Modi’s) authoritarianism whilst others are complicit in Modi’s undermining of democracy; many people didn’t realise what was happening whilst huge swathes of constitutional machinery was aware but let it happen. There is incremental, subtle but systemic style of autocratisation which chips at the fundamentals of democracy”.

Will the citizens of India have the courage to do something about this?

With the General Elections just six months away, we the people of India, must get our act together immediately. As we observe another ‘Constitution Day’ (on 26 November), let us pay heed to Dr. Ambedkar’s passionate words to the Constituent Assembly on 25 November 1949, “If we wish to

we have sought to enshrine the principle of Government of the people, for the people and by the people, let us resolve not to be tardy in the recognition of the evils that lie across our path and which induce people to prefer Government for the people to Government by the people, nor to be weak in our initiative to remove them. That is the only way to serve the country. I know of no better.”

The responsibility is ours today!

As citizens, we all have both the right and duty, to protect and promote the Constitution of India!

Rosary School, Baroda, has shown us all, one meaningful way of how to ‘Celebrate Constitutionality’! Do we have the responsibility and courage to do likewise?

20 November 2023 *(Fr. Cedric Prakash SJ (GUJ) is a human rights, reconciliation, and peace activist / writer. Contact: cedricprakash@gmail.com)

preserve the Constitution in which

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------96 Veez Illustrated Weekly

A Photograph Contest by Naman Ballok Jesu

Nov.14: To mark the occasion of Children’s Day, a Photography Contest was held by Naman Ballok Jesu wherein a photograph was to

be clicked of a child between the age group of 3 to 15 years with Naman Ballok Jesu Magazine. More than 50 children participated in this

97 Veez Illustrated Weekly

98 Veez Illustrated Weekly

competition and showed their enthusiasm and creativity in a spectacular manner.

The creativity in these photographs were well appreciated by all.

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

99 Veez Illustrated Weekly

100 Veez Illustrated Weekly

101 Veez Illustrated Weekly