Author:
Publication: Gomantak Times
Date: April 30, 2002
The Christian community has not
lost contact with their ancestral traditions though they have changed their
religion and have fought to retain their nationality, according to well-known
Marathi writer Manohar Hirba Sardessai.
Speaking at a function to mark the
release of his book, 'Gomantakia Christian Samaj at Institute Menezes Braganza
yesterday, he said that relations between the two major communities have
endured well due to the Christian community's fight to retain their nationality
and old traditions.
Gomantak Marathi Academy president
Prof Gopalrao Mayekar felt that there are some unnecessary misunderstandings
about the Catholic community and politicians have only deepened these feelings.
He further stated that while Goans
were one community, the Inquisition caused a wedge between the two for
some time. Sardessai on the other hand said that Inquisition was not specifically
against the Hindu community but was aimed at making better Christians of
the converts.
Mayekar expressed confidence that
the book will help clear any misunderstandings and bring the two communities
still closer.
Recalling the contribution of Fr
Thomas Stephens in the 16th century, he said that writing of Kristpurana
in Marathi helped bring the Catholics closer to the Hindus.
He lamented that the language agitation
caused hatred for Marathi among the minorities and closed the option for
them of enriching their knowledge through this language.
Gomantak Chief Editor Sharad Karkhanis
who' presided over the function analysed the different approach taken by
the British and the Portuguese in India though both came with one perspective
of trade in this country.
He stressed the need for translation
of the book in English and Konkani specially in Roman script for better
coverage among the readers.
Head of Marathi department in Goa
University, Dr Somnath Komarpanth reviewed the book and said that though
Catholics changed their religion, their love for the country remained firm
and they contributed significantly to nation-rebuilding.
He said the book highlights their
contribution and it should help clear any misunderstanding about the community.
Earlier, Director of Art and Culture
M V Naik welcomed the gathering, Karkhanis released the book, Vibha Dhume
compered the programme and Ashok Parab proposed a vote of thanks.
