United efforts

 During the National convention organised by FSMF on arriving at accountability standards for Civil Society Organisations in India, there was a reference made TWICE to an old advertisement that appeared both in print and in the television. It was the NECC ad titled, Sunday ho ya Monday, roz khao ande!  

The context was the need to have a unified narrative that is strong and clear.  The NECC ad was about the egg, not about one poultry farm or a particular shop.  It was about eggs!! It was a lead up to the 1980s. It was a difficult time for Indian poultry farmers and Mr B.V. Rao of Venkateshwara Hatcheries decided to unite all poultry farmers into a cooperative model, similar to the one of Amul in Gujarat, spearheaded by Mr Kurien.  He, then along with his team, came up with the NECC and the subsequent ads.  

A similar ad was run about milk, the benefits of drinking milk.  

I guess there is always a great benefit in seeing the unity and collectively working towards something good than making individuated scattered attempts.  That said, there are invariably several issues that prevent this from happening. But if one is willing to see and grow out of these petty dividing issues, the benefits are large and extensive.   

In Delhi

 I arrived in Delhi for the second time this year. The metro was unusually free of congestion, perhaps because it is a Sunday. But I wasted quite a lot of time waiting for the buses. I then decided to walk to the school. 

More than being frustrated with no bus coming my way, I needed to repair my sandal and so thought I'd find atleast a hardware shop or a cobbler. 

Walking along the stretch from the metro to the school, all I found was dry-cleaners, ice-cream parlours and pharmacies. I was almost certain that finding a cobbler in such a locale would be practically impossible. 

Lo and behold, I actually did find one. In my brief conversation with him, as he bent over and mended my sandal, I came to know that he has been working as a cobbler at the same spot for the last 40 years! Looking at his tools and work style I could gather he was honest about the duration. 

Although there were quite a few restaurants and eateries along the way, I choose to sit by a father and son duo preparing parathas and bought lunch from them. Hot parathas made right then and there. 

It struck me then that the population living in that particular stretch was a very posh one. Nonetheless, it was so posh that the people working for them were mostly from outside the state and really poor. So naturally, there were the posh spots and the down-to-earth spots catering to the two different sets of people around. 

I certainly do not claim to authoritatively speak about Delhi, but unlike Mumbai or for that matter, Hyderabad, in Delhi the dividing lines are clear and sharp. 

History of Surakshitha building

In 1993 Fr Sebastian M was the rector of Ravulapalem. By this time PARA was already established and registered as a society (1988). Fr Sebastian bought a plot of land behind the Salesian residence at Ravulapalem (a paddy field then) measuring 14 cents. This was bought in two bits of 7 cents each. His plan was to provide a boarding facility for students after their class 10 exams. The idea was to have the school teaching staff living on the ground floor and the students on the top floor. One for boys and gents, the other portion for girls and ladies. That was the intention and plan with which Fr Sebastian bought the two bits. 

Fr Pallithanam was under the impression that one plot was bought in the name of Ravulapalem and the other in the name of PARA. But when Prabhakar and I checked the land documents yesterday we realised both the plots were bought in the name of Ravulapalem society. 

Perhaps when it was decided to shift Surakshitha home out of the PARA premises, one of the portions of the land was "gifted" to PARA. Because Palli is sure that the building was built by PARA. 

Association or distinction

 Sitting opposite a couple of Hindu sanyasis at the Rajahmundry airport terminal, I said to myself... I'm not very different from them. Mostly a difference of religious affiliation. 

Yet in a world that is so divided, we barely think of the similarities and often focus or harp on the distinctions. We prefer to stand out than stand with. 

Our tendency to associate and seek the linkages is far weaker than our urge to disassociate. 

Makes me think if this divisive urge is inherent in the character of religion or have we forced upon it.

Religion: inside out

 Here's another piece of reflection from Johnson Kottaram, about religion which is quite challenging, and true! 

Faith or Faction? 

When religion leaves the quiet space of conscience and enters the public arena, it stops being sacred and starts being strategic. It no longer redeems; it recruits. 

 When Jemimah Rodrigues thanked Jesus after her cricketing triumph, it was an intimate moment of gratitude. But in a country charged with religious fault lines, her words became ammunition. 

 The devout saw divine favour; the hostile saw provocation. What should have united us in admiration divided us along belief. 

 This isn’t an Indian peculiarity; it’s a global malaise. 

 In the Vatican itself, Pope Leo XIV’s recent permission for ultra-conservatives to celebrate the Tridentine Mass inside St. Peter’s Basilica looks less like pastoral generosity and more like an act of appeasement—a cautious nod to figures such as Cardinal Burke who equate faith with form and liturgy with loyalty. 

 The altar, once a place of communion, becomes a negotiation table between warring factions. 

 Even the brilliant Mahmood Mamdani, admired for his intellect and moral clarity, finds himself reduced to a “Muslim voice” by opponents who cannot see beyond labels. 

 In every corner of the world, identity has begun to shout louder than integrity. 

 The problem is not faith; it’s its exhibition. When belief is worn like a badge, it stops being a bridge and becomes a barricade. 

 A faith that needs applause is already insecure. 

 Real spirituality works inward—it refines, questions, and softens. Public religiosity, by contrast, hardens. It demands allegiance, not understanding; conformity, not compassion. 

 Until we learn to keep faith where it belongs—in the inner sanctum of the self—it will remain a divisive force, beautiful in symbol but toxic in practice.

Bourgeois Salesians

 From the General Chapter 29 document... (AGC 445 p. 20-21)

... it is true that there are numerous confreres with great sensitivity. But we are not all like that. (...) we take care of the poor, but we are not 'with the poor' nor 'are we poor', and with little capacity for personal and and institutional testimony.  And where - alongside holy Salesians - there are 'bourgeois' Salesians who desire more social life than missionary life, attracted by careerism and with superficial attitudes, with distractions and various comforts and - what's worse - everything is considered normal. 

This observation says it all!  

Source, not exclusive container

 The first reading of the day where Ezekiel describes the temple, and the water flowing out of it, in different directions, with all length, depth, direction and final destination of the same. 

What struck me as I read this passage during Mass was that the Sanctuary - and I suppose, the Church, as a whole - is the source of life and growth.  It is not the container or the exclusive right over life and growth.  But that the power of the Church is such that whatever comes into its contact should be life-giving wherever it goes.  

In this instance he speaks of the water that flows from the sanctuary. But I'm sure, the sanctuary is not 'producing' the water! And by itself, water nourishes life.  But that water when it flows THROUGH the sanctuary is so blessed that wherever it flows, it brings abundant life.  

So, too should every wisp of breeze, every fly that glides through the Church, every person spending time 'in' the church, should actually be a blessing wherever it or he or she goes.  

A very naive and shallow interpretation would be to exalt the sacred space 'in' itself. No.  The beauty of the Church is in its empowerment, its giving-out, its life-giving power that flows OUT of it.  It would be very incestuous to believe that the power of the Church should be and is only within itself!  

The person, people as the Church

 The readings of the day, led me to a surprising twist at the end... much like a thriller movie with a very unexpected and unprepared twist to conclude with.  

The first and the second readings speak of the structure of the temple. The second one speaks of the waters from the sanctuary, flowing left, around, this way and that way... emphasising the life it spreads wherever it flows.  

The gospel of the day begins with Jesus in the temple; his rage at the commercialisation of the sacred space and his eventual chasing out of all the vendors. However, the concluding line of the gospel is a total surprise: He was talking of his body!  Rebuilding of the temple again! 

With all the emphasis all along on the structure of the temple, the building, the sanctuary, the edifice... the best is kept for the last - the person!  

The church as a person, the people!  While the physical structure of the church is part of the understanding, tradition and need of the living out of our faith, the highest form and integral part of the understanding, tradition and need of living out the same faith, is the person!! 

Personally for me, especially in my present role, this concept of the emphasis on the living person, much more than the physical infrastructure and all the amenities and functionality, is an endorsement of where our investment should most be!  

Of course, I don't think Jesus would differ in my subtle deviation when I say that the building up should be of the people of God, not myself!  I am not the temple - atleast not the most important or the best decorated or guarded.  Shouldn't.  

Faith as commitment

 I came across this beautiful but challenging narration about faith as commitment... (a reflection by Jijo Jose Manjackal)

It’s a bright morning at Niagara Falls, 1859. The mist is rising, the roar of the waters is deafening and thousands of people are holding their breath. 

A rope - just two inches thick - stretches across the mighty falls. And then he appears: Charles Blondin, the greatest tightrope walker of his time. 

He steps onto that rope one careful step at a time. The crowd gasps - some turn their faces away. Step after step inch after inch and finally, he reaches the other side! 

The people explode in cheers and applause. Blondin turns around and shouts, “Do you believe I can walk back again?” “Yes!” they roar.  

He smiles. “Do you believe I can do it pushing a wheelbarrow?” “Yes!” Then he points to the crowd and asks, “Who will get into the wheelbarrow?” Silence.  No one moved!

 Everyone believed but no one committed! Everyone cheered but no one chose! 

In our Christian life, it’s time to stop cheering from the sidelines and start choosing! 

Faith is not a feeling to admire it is a choice to commit. 

Sheep and the shepherd

 In the Christian tradition the imagery of the sheep and the shepherd dates back to Jesus himself. In the gospels we read the umpteen number of times Jesus speaks of these two characters while driving home a point.

While many exegeses and commentaries ha e been recorded, there is one quite common misinterpretation that I've not come across much. Of course, there are references quite close to it. It is about the character of the sheep. 

Shepherds today tend to look upon the sheep as dumb, naive and worth nothing but being bossed over. This is not the fault of the sheep. It is due to the prise and arrogance of the shepherd. Jesus' concern and action towards the sheep was purely out of love for the sheep; not out of pity for them, not out of a false sense of doling out charity just to boost his own ego, not out of looking down on them, not as a means of self-glorification. 

Jesus loved the sheep. Period. There was nothing about himself in any of his thoughts, plans, and actions.

Digital privilege

 I met one of my mentors after several months. He has been one of the few gentlemen I have esteemed much for years now, primarily for the integrity of character and critical thinking. 

The latest meeting however was a kind of reversal of roles: he needed my help to figure out something about the internet and email. He was never good at tasks involving technical content. So I have lent him a helping hand very many times in the past as well. 

Now as a 'tutor' it occurred to me, how is it that he does not know such simple and easy things. But as an educator I am also aware that what I today consider 'simple and easy' was not what the older generation was born with. The digital playground has been the given-privilege of my era - greater still of the younger guys. 

Friends and benefactors

 Finished the penultimate long pending task today. Now just one more legal procedure, which is very much in place leaving to complete the task for good. It has been with regard to a bit of land we own and have been trying to sell it for the last three years. 

Thanks to the several people helping us with all the legal, land and governmental procedures which are often so winding and complicated that one could spend a whole life moving a file just to the next desk - leave alone prove that you are the legal owner of the property. Given this scenario and the numerous contingencies that this bit of land has been plagued by, three years is nothing short of a miracle. Thanks to our friends and well wishers.

Opinions, convictions and facts

 Each one of us is entitled to hold dear an opinion about anything in the world, or out of the world. But, to make it a conviction and speak to everyone as if so is a very foolish modus operandi. 

I remember Fr Marco narrating the incident of the tennis commentator recieving a said number of letters from his bearers after a particular match. There were talks and media gossip about him being partial to one of the two players. Until he revealed in an interview that half of the letters he received accused him of being partial to one and the remaining half accused him of being partial to the other player. So he naturally took pride in his job and used this very incident of disrespect to prove his competency.

Opinions, facts and convictions!! Easy to have the first, in gallore. Hard to sift through facts and verify opinions and give up most of the opinions. Takes guts to grow deeper in convictions, all the while being open to review them. 

Cash vs screen payment

 Paying in cash and amount of Rs 1000 hurts. We're physically parting with money and add to that our old psychology that we are giving away something that is ours. But paying the same amount of Rs 1000 on scree does not hurt!!

I've realised this fact myself ever since I started using Phone pe since a couple of months. But old habits die hard. So I still feel I'm in control - digital mode nonetheless.

That said, the ease of transaction is something amazing. With practically every Tom, Dick and Harry (and Castilino) having this feature of digital Phone pe or similar mode of payment, monetary transactions are effortlessly smooth, breaking down the barriers of distance, in person meetings, and duration.

The shrinking human body

I reached Narsipatnam this afternoon as part of my annual visit to the community. I was asked to address the boarding boys the traditional Salesian good night. That is when I noticed the stature of the boys. Most appeared like high school boys, especially some of the degree students. 

This is not the first time that I have noticed the young or short stature the intermediate and degree students at Narsipatnam. Even last year i couldn't but notice this. Perhaps since most of them are tribals they appear so. But, in general, I think the human size has shrunk. 

I guess, it is part of our evolution... If not of the actual human body, at least of my mind!

That said, most of the boys still had that genuine joy and happiness in their greeting and interaction with me. That matters most!

Irony!

 

Thunder and lightening

 In our Salesian religious communities, the common community prayer moments are a dynamic in themselves.  Often they inadvertently reflect the level of community relationship and the vibe. 

In most communities, after the initial days of new members joining and the people getting used to one another, fall into sync in a couple of weeks.  The prayers, usually recited in two choirs, have their own rhythm and there is some sort of semblance, in most places.  

Nonetheless, there are some communities where there is always an orchestra on!  The prayer, even though recited, is in two voices!  There is sometimes one or two who are out of sync in their speed, if not in the words themselves.  Either someone recites so fast that by the time one is halfway through the verse, the other has ended the verse.  Or someone is so slow, that no matter how slow you recite, the other will still be slower!  Akin to thunder and lightening - never together, always one after the other! 

Some confreres have no clue or intention of modulating their voice as per the size of the group.  No matter how many in the Chapel, their volume is set. There are a select few who have a peculiar tone of ending the prayer or the verse; and some cartoons like me are more attuned to these handful of individuals and their comical sounds, drawing amusement from paying closer attention to these, than to God himself. 

Then there are those who pray so loudly that the one sitting next to them is the only one who can hear them - not sure if God himself is able to!  Worse is when such individuals make an intercessory prayer. The rest of the community either does not hear what he says or cannot follow what or whom he prayed for.  So invariably there is silence after he has concluded the prayer - unless the one sitting beside him (the only one for whom, something is audible), starts the common response, 'Lord, hear our prayer!'. And someone mockingly does not resist from responding, 'Lord, hear HIS prayer!'

At times, there are those who start a prayer, but in the news-reading mode.  More than a prayer, it is an update on the event or the person; and by the time he has concluded his lengthy prayer, even God would be confused as to what exactly to grant him, as per the request.  

Strangers or friends?

 Of late I'm reading up interesting inspiring or odd stories in the news.  I never liked politics - never do! So I gladly skip the political section.  But the odd bits that occasionally pop up in mainstream media about unusual or heartwarming stories, I gladly read.  

One such was this one on BBC: The wedding crasher mystery solved after four years

It is a story of a young couple, reviewing the photos of their wedding, come across a stranger in attendance. Being a close knit event with family and friends only invited for the occasion, they couldn't identify the man.  The bride particularly felt she needed to uncover his identity and after four years did manage to discover that the man attending their wedding was a total stranger; but accidentally at their wedding, instead of another wedding happening at a nearby venue.  This man was given the wrong address and realised that he was at the wrong venue, only on seeing the bride - the only person whom he knew in the intended wedding he wished to be present!  

As I read this story, I couldn't but laugh.  In Scotland - as it would be in most of Europe, I guess - weddings and such events are attended only by invitation, that too very selected few. To find a stranger would mean they are wedding crashers!  And just like in this story, easy to identify, as 'not invited' - though may be difficult to identify them in real life.  But in India, if one were to even try to identify all those who attend a wedding, a lifetime would be totally inadequate even to mark someone as a wedding crasher!  Not to mention anything about actual wedding crashers. 

First of all our families and friends circle are so big and wide, any new face could very well be a first cousin or the better half of my best friend! So when one invites someone close to oneself for an event, that invited person inviting another one or two or more is not taken offence at or unexpected.  The more the merrier is the mantra!  In such a scenario, total strangers are also welcome!  That's the other aspect of celebrations in India - everyone is welcome!  Very rarely is a guest thrown out, merely because he or she is a stranger or he or she hasn't been invited. On the contrary, strangers becoming friends at such events is not uncommon!! Such is the adventurous life in India! 

Hospital ministry!

 Yesterday I was in the hospital, not for myself but to assist someone.  Not that I made any special effort or anything to assist the person, but I merely behaved and treated the other as if she was perfectly fine.  

Just the usual chat. Normal everyday topics. Nothing to remind her about the ongoing treatment that necessitated her presence in the hospital the whole day.  

I think the best part was to listen to the other. Just plain listening. Not that I was expected to give any grand remedies or responses, but a simple outpouring - non-judgemental and confidential. 

In short, another day of ministry! 

Cow politics

 Here's a well written piece on the cow... an animal considered sacred in Indian politics (more than in religion!). I'm not sure if the article will continue to be available for long. Hence I've copied excerpts of it here, after the title of the article. The author is Abhishek Chakraborty. Originally published here on News abp LIVE (read on 9 September 2025).

The article is fairly balanced without taking any political sides: BJP or Congress.  But fairly exposes the way the cow - and for that matter, anything - can be turned into a political tool. The title of the article sums it all up! 

'Gau' Is 'Mata' Only When Breed Is Indian. The Foreign Jersey Cow Is Another Story In Politics

(Source: MSN 9 September 2025)

 

The Jersey cow holds a curious place in Indian political rhetoric — a symbol of both dairy prosperity and pointed political insults. BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have not shied away from turning this breed into a quirky metaphor for Opposition figures, despite the Hindu reverence for cows as "mother". 

Cow: Mother Or Insult? Politicians, Please Decide 

In the colourful menagerie of Indian politics, hardly anything is sacred — not even the 'sacred' cow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi notoriously referred to Sonia Gandhi as a "Jersey cow" in 2004 and Rahul Gandhi as a "hybrid calf," a jab at his parentage (Italian mother, Indian father) during his early election campaigns in Gujarat. 

From Channel Islands To Indian Fields And... Politics 

Before it became political ammo, the Jersey cow revolutionised Indian dairies. Bred on the British Channel Island of Jersey, the breed was imported to India to boost local milk yields, especially after the White Revolution in the 1970s. 

Why did Jersey cows fit in so well? They are small, hardy, adapt to local climates, and — most importantly — pump out creamy, high-fat milk that's perfect for making all things buttery and decadent. Indian farmers find them more profitable, and the breed's early maturity and high fertility ensure a steady stream of income. 

Jersey cows contributed to India's White Revolution, or 'Operation Flood', primarily through cross-breeding with native breeds to increase milk yield and improve milk quality, producing richer milk with higher fat and protein content. So it should not be an insult, right? 

The problem lies in the "foreign" origin. Even though the breed has made India its home, it is still not the 'gau mata' Indian Hindus have come to revere. At least, the political 'insults' seem to prove that. 

The Political Moo-d — Then And Now 

The cow in India is used in a lot of contexts today. Sometimes it is used to denote a naive and simple person, at others, it becomes a rebuke to call someone stupid and a good-for-nothing. No demarcation of native or foreign breed there. But, how did the Jersey cow morph from livestock to linguistic sledgehammer? Maybe it's just too tempting — a breed that represents both economic success and foreignness. 

In India, the sacred cow is never to be insulted, but a Jersey cow? She's fair game for wordplay, even as her "native" cousins get garlanded. 

Clearly, whether it's Congress or BJP, the cow — Jersey or native — is an instrument of politics. None is ready to commit to a ban on its slaughter, but none is ready to advocate beef either. But perhaps, the native cow commands a tad more respect. 

Whether in the cowshed or in the political arena, the cow rules the headlines and will continue to do so for a long time to come.

The 12 apostles - common folk

 The British judiciary has a style of functioning that whenever there is a trial, as part of the process 12 people are randomly chosen to be part of the jury.  Of course, not any 12 but those residential in the country (perhaps even the same county) and those who have been part of the British culture, or grown up in Britain since 13 years of age.  

Anyway, those criteria apart, there is no other qualification that decides whether they are part of the jury or not. They need not be holding prestigious positions in the society or specialists in law, leave alone be highly education. Mere common folk! 

The Jury, by John Morgan

In his essay "The Twelve Men", dealing with this British jury system, G. K. Chesterton wrote: "Whenever our civilization wants a library to be catalogued, or a solar system discovered, or any other trifle of this kind, it uses up its specialists. But when it wishes anything done which is really serious, it collects twelve of the ordinary men standing around… The same thing was done, if I remember right, by the Founder of Christianity!”

Jesus too chose 12 men, all 'ordinary men standing around'... but it is interesting also to note, that it was those men standing around HIM; not total strangers.  Those 12 were already his disciples. 

To be prepared or not to be?

 In the Gospel one reads Jesus warning his disciples to be single minded about following him.  The one who puts his hand to the ploughshare does not look behind.  At the same time he speaks of the need to be prepared.  

I gather it is a question of balancing. And most importantly, clarifying motives.  The purpose!  We wash our clothes and iron them - not because we love our clothes, or that the clothes need to look neat and tidy.  But because we wish to be seen as neat and tidy!  To want the clothes to look spic and span is a good thing; but the primary purpose and goal is to look good ourselves!  

It is the same with the whole question of discipleship.  It is not about hating people, in order to love God.  But loving God above every person.  What is common and necessary is the aspect of love. And if we genuinely love God - or people - we tend to genuinely love everyone else as well. 

Fervent prayers

 I'm just back from the Parish Mass.  As I sat silently after the recessional hymn (and the litany of prayers recited by some!), I could not but notice the number of women going around the various statues in the Church.  They would stop at each statue, touch its feet, say a prayer and move on.  This is a very very regular phenomenon one gets to view in practically any Church in India.  

However, what I noticed today - and most of the times - is the devotion and fervour with which these ladies were doing this 'rite'.  As they bowed their head in prayer, touching the feet of the statue, their minds and hearts were uttering a fervent prayer.  That fervour is all too evident on their faces.  Some even in desperation.  One cannot but feel it.  Witnessing this particular scene is no less spiritually enriching than any prolonged spiritual reading! 

And I can safely bet that atleast 95% of these prayers are for their own families, especially their children!  

Ronald Menezes SDB

 Today is the death anniversary of Fr Ronald Menezes, a Salesian Priest from Mumbai.  I was in the same community as he in the year 2003 at Matunga.  I was a student then, studying outside the community or the Salesian educational institutions.  

I remember him for his gentle ways of keeping all of us in the community together.  He was a hard worker and expected everyone also to contribute their mite in keeping the works going on smoothly. One of his most striking features was his enthusiasm. He was always optimistic and enthused about life.  That was really contagious.  Be it among the confreres, the school teachers, people who came to the Shrine, or even the boys in the campus. 

He was always present in his rectors office which was in the school building.  Every school day morning, he would be at the entrance of the primary section greeting children and parents - always in his cassock.  He was such a familiar figure among the tiny tots that one day one of them walked up to him and said, 'Your mummy is at the gate!' Ronnie was shocked.  (His parents were long deceased). Looking at his face the boy realised that he didn't believe him. So the little one took Ronnie's hand and dragged him to the entrance.  And whom does Ronnie see there?  A nun, in a habit!  The little one had linked the 'matching clothes' and figured out that the one in the habit would be the mother of the one in a cassock!

I most appreciated his love and care of the boarders.  We then had nearly 60 boys with us in the Matunga boarding.  And he knew each of the boys, their family background and their strengths and weaknesses.  It was he who warmly exhorted us, three Brothers, to visit the homes of the boys during the holidays.  We went grudgingly.  But that one visit to the homes of the boys, made a big difference for our relationship with the boys.  When the boys returned to the boarding, most of them had a totally different outlook towards us.  They saw us Brothers as friends and relatives, who knew their families, their homes, their real living condition.  They didn't have to put on masks because we knew their real condition, and didn't treat them any different or less because of that.  

Ronnie was also very good in relating to people and roping them in to assist in the various works of the boarding or school.  He was keen that we three Brothers meet him every month.  And he was keen that we keep him abreast of our reading material and progress.  I think that was because he himself was an avid reader.  It was evident from his sermons and reflections.  

Anyway, I was blessed to have him as the Rector of the community when I was in Matunga.  And today, I thank God for him, in a special way.  

At Dharmasagar, Warangal

 Today was the funeral of Gagarapu Anil's dad - Mr Gagarapu Adam. It was in his hometown of Dharmasagar, in Warangal.  The death was all of a sudden.  Two of Anil's sisters were inconsolable.  

This is the second time that I visited Dharmasagar.  The first time was more than 20 years ago while at Karunapuram.  I distinctly remember going to the place for a cycle picnic from Karunapuram.  Don't remember much of the place, the village or the Church, except one sharp turn on the road.  There was an old temple in a very dilapidated shape then, just near that sharp and narrow turn.  Today I didn't see any temple at that location. 

I liked the Parish Church very much.  Very brightly lit up but natural sunlight and refreshingly well ventilated, with plenty of windows.  The sanctuary is also well lit up with sunlight streaming in from above.  Very spacious, inside and outside as well. 

Measuring tapes, sewage pipelines and philosophy

 Three years ago, I was asked to take up this task of being the Economer of the Province.  At first when told, it did not make any sense to me.  All my Salesian life I was being prepared and had been working in the formation line, that too teaching Philosophy.  Now all of a sudden, one is asked to take up a task, which is astronomically miles away from teaching philosophy! 

The first time that the actual reality of taking on a totally different responsibility hit me was when measuring land at Mallepally.  Thathi was still around. It was not even a month after taking charge and both of us were at Mallelpally, assisting in the land survey.  While assisting, at one point, it was just Thathi and myself at one end of the measuring tape and he smiled. When asked what that smile meant, he replied, "Instead of a chalk you are now holding a measuring tape!" Of course, he was kidding and he knew the context even before his tenure as the Provincial. 

Even this morning was a crude reminder of the same 'change of line'. It struck me that the toilet pipeline of the second floor need not come down right to the ground level and run under the basement of the dining hall and kitchen to exit at the other end of the building.  Now that there evidently is some issue with its free flow, why break our head (again) digging up and investigating that 'underground' pipeline.  Why not run the sewage pipe along the first floor parapet and get it down at the other end of the building.  There is no toilet or bathroom on that side of the building, neither on the ground floor nor on the first floor!! 

And I said to myself, what lovely philosophical thoughts are these!!! 

That said, I hold no regrets! Being a Salesian has helped me see the great value of diversity and the utility of being a jack of all trades! 

The relic of Don Bosco

 In my office I have two first degree relics of Don Bosco.  A biretta worn by Don Bosco. And half a brick from the bedroom of Don Bosco's room, at Becchi I guess. 

The biretta is worn and torn - hence needs no other verification to state that it was used by Don Bosco!!  Both these relics have been encased in a glass box.  

Usually we build a wall or room around a glass case. But in this case we have a glass case around a brick!  

Jokes apart, this particular encased set has been in my office since the time I took charge three years ago.  In fact, when I took charge, there were several religious articles in the office, which I reverently handed over to my predecessor or found a new devotee to take them in.  The only thing that 'somehow' stayed back in the office is this particular set of relics.  

When some people visit my office and they ask what it is, and hear me say what it is, they are quite taken up.  It is only at these moments that I realise the worth of these relics.  For the rest of the time, they sit in the corner of room and I carry on my work, totally oblivious of their existence in the same room. 

Nonetheless, I am beginning to realise and appreciate their presence and come to believe that Don Bosco himself is present, in a way, with me, assisting me to carry on my weird task and responsibility.  Or else, how does one explain a lecturer of philosophy handling finance and administration at this wide and large scale!  Although relegated to a corner and barely noticed or even consciously revered, I suppose these relics - and through them, Don Bosco himself - is in a way guiding and leading me. That's quite a morale booster and immense source of strength. 

Pathetic government websites

 In the last month of August, for various reasons and at different times, I had to access the national websites.  Gosh, most of these websites were a nightmare, even to login; leave alone upload or download anything worthwhile! 

One of them is the one that foreign nationals need to use to register (or allied services) when they land in India and are to stay for anything other than tourist purposes.  I spent half a day (more than 6 hours!!) just to complete and upload an application, while assisting a youngster from Germany, who is here as a volunteer.  It was not about the internet speed, but everything about the website itself that just drags you on without helping you get on with it.  Logging in required an OTP.  That never came through.  So I had to register myself with all my Indian details - just to get an OTP.  Once we were able to sign in, uploading documents was another nightmare.  Clicking the browse and selecting file was one game of cat and mouse.  And when we did manage to bell the cat, the 'upload' button would be hidden behind the file preview!! To access the 'upload' icon, we had to get rid of the file!! Imagine doing this for a dozen documents.  

Then the instructions all along are nothing but a bunch of jokes!!  Of course, at that moment of frustration, jokes don't go down well!  At one point, the guidelines say, if a particular document is uploaded, then this letter is not to be uploaded.  But when you complete the process and reach the submit threshold, the submit icon does not get activated till that file which was earlier stated as redundant is uploaded!  And so begins the whole process, all over again!! 

The comedy of the matter is when some documents are totally unavailable and explicitly stated as not needed and yet one has to upload those files.  Well, Indian as I am, got around this, by uploading a random pdf file!!  Just a blank while page, saved as a pdf.  That got accepted and I could proceed to the next level!  

The same website had a scrolling banner which stated that a new website has been launched.  Clicking on that link led to a bit more decent looking website.  But my hopes for a faster and easier task were dashed when the whole website, which explains things in detail, but has no links or icons to actually do the work of uploading and submitting the application!  

As I struggled with this particular website, I could not but wonder what on earth would foreigners be thinking of our 'advanced IT claims' when they land in India and have to wade through such horrific websites, just to register themselves. 

Albi Ya Albi (Nancy Ajram)

 The great month of September, let me begin with a lovely Arabic song that I came across a couple of days ago... thanks to Kalam Eineh, the earlier Arabic/Egyptian song, that has really caught my ears and heart). 

This one is by Nancy Ajram, titled Albi Ya Albi (My heart, oh my heart!)... another love song, with soothing music and apt lyrics too! 

My heart oh my heart, leave me oh my heart 

It's not the right time to fall in love again

I can't now and I can't do anything about it

I don't know what happened to my heart

May be I loved you, you were the taste of love

...

A different take on John the Baptist

A modern (and perhaps, a little nasty) take on the episode of John the Baptist: John the Baptist, had no need to poke his nose into the private affairs of Herod! Perhaps, even Herodias was having a second chance in life, away from her first husband. Of course, on the other hand, too heavy a penalty for making public a private matter!

All said and done, we wouldn't have been discussing or talking about this episode today, if not for the stance taken by John the Baptist.  If he too were to have remained silent, he too would have been lost in the silent majority since humanity has existed on the face of the earth - and injustice and corruption, too. 

My mobile phone history

 After much thought and delay, I finally decided to get a new phone for myself.  This would be the second phone that I'm purchasing and the fourth one I'd be using, since the time I starting using mobile phones since 2007.  

It was when I started working as the Province Secretary that I got my first mobile in 2007. It was a Nokia handset.  And three years later when I was transferred to Kondadaba, I left the phone with my successor. 

While at Kondadaba, I decided not to get one, because there was no need. Besides, the network was very poor.  However, one of the parishoners gifted Fr KT Jose a phone and him not very comfortable to 're-learn' using a different model of the phone, preferred to get a phone of the same model and type that he was already using.  So, he passed on that Nokia (again) phone to me.  That would have been in 2011 or later. 

I had it with me till 2016. Even though the last one year of its use, the speakers had given way and I could use it only it with the wired earphones.  That was in Ramanthapur. And in 2016 when I left Ramanthapur to fly to the UK, the community gifted me with a Samsung J5 (or something of that number). 

I used that Samsung phone for most of my time in the UK. And while extensively using e-bay, came across a second hand i-phone. I bought that for GBP 42 (approximately Rs 4,000)!!! It was the iphone SE 2016 edition.  I bought it in 2021. That phone was great! Small in size and very smooth in its operations.  No wonder why people are crazy for iphones - besides the brand craze!  However, for more than a year now the battery has been draining very fast.  From recharging it thrice or four times a day, about two years ago, today I need to practically keep it for charging after every call. If not for that one single drawback, I'd be more than happy to continue using the phone. 

Given the fact that I never watch(ed) videos, or listen to music or use maps or the camera or anything fancy on any of my phones, I would say my phone use has been extensively and exclusively AS a phone - calls, documents, whatsapp and my daily alarm!! 

Today I start using my latest phone, Vivo T4x 5G.  Surprisingly I discovered that it was released on my birthday this year!!! 

God as fulcrum

 "Give me a lever and a fulcrum," said a man of science, "and I'll shift the world."  Archimedes wasn't talking to God, so his request wasn't granted; and in any case he was only thinking of the material world.  But the Saints really have enjoyed the privilege he asked for;  the fulcrum God told them to use was himself, nothing less than himself, and the lever was prayer.  Only it must be the kind of prayer that sets the heart of all on fire with love; that's how the Saints shift the world in our own day, and that's how they'll do it to the end of time."

[Therese of Lisieux, Autobiography of a Saint, translated by Ronald Knox (Collins: Fount Paperback, 1985), 246.

Religion and humanity

 From a letter to the editor (The Hindu, 8 August 2000)

I know a Christian gentleman who lived in this little town,' who used to care for the poor people who came to him.  Among the poor people who used to go to him was an old man in his 70s whose eyes were bad.  The Christian gentleman got him a pair of spectacles.  As years went by the old man became practically blind. "One day he came to this gentleman and asked him if he would receive him into the Christian faith.  The gentleman asked him, "Why do you want to change your religion? You could as well remain a Hindu."  The answer the old man gave was a gem.  "You know every day I meet a lot of people as I beg through the streets around.  People of all religions.  People who worship God in their different ways. But I have a feeling that your way must be the best one, because every time I come to your door, I feel I am a human being."

Stand up (Cynthia Erivo)

I heard this lovely song this evening, and I first thought it was a Biblical song.  It felt exactly as if it was Moses of the Old Testament, singing this song about his task of leading the Israelites back to the Promised land.  

However, I then realised it mentions of a 'river' rather than the sea. That's when I looked it up. It turned out to be the title song of the movie 'Harriet'. The movie itself, is no less an Exodus tale: HARRIET tells the extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman's escape from slavery and transformation into one of America’s greatest heroes. Her courage, ingenuity, and tenacity freed hundreds of slaves and changed the course of history.

The video of the song narrates the story by itself. The song is co-written and sung by Cynthia Erivo.  She is also the lead actress of the movie!! That's some real passion and heart. 

I'll need to watch this movie... 

I been walkin' With my face turned to the sun Weight on my shoulders A bullet in my gun Oh, I got eyes in the back of my head Just in case I have to run I do what I can when I can while I can for my people While the clouds roll back and the stars fill the night That's when I'm gonna stand up Take my people with me Together we are going To a brand new home Far across the river Can you hear freedom calling? Calling me to answer Gonna keep on keepin' on I can feel it in my bones Early in the mornin' Before the sun begins to shine We're gonna start movin' Towards that separating line I'm wadin' through muddy waters You know I got a made up mind And I don't mind if I lose any blood on the way to salvation And I'll fight with the strength that I got until I die So I'm gonna stand up Take my people with me Together we are going To a brand new home Far across the river Can you hear freedom calling? Calling me to answer Gonna keep on keepin' on And I know what's around the bend Might be hard to face 'cause I'm alone And I just might fail But Lord knows I tried Sure as stars fill up the sky Stand up Take my people with me Together we are going To a brand new home Far across the river Can you hear freedom calling? Calling me to answer Gonna keep on keepin' on I'm gonna stand up Take my people with me Together we are going To a brand new home Far across the river Do you hear freedom calling? Calling me to answer Gonna keep on keepin' on I'm gonna stand up Take my people with me Together we are going To a brand new home Far across the river I hear freedom calling Calling me to answer Gonna keep on keepin' on I can feel it in my bones I go to prepare a place for you I go to prepare a place for you I go to prepare a place for you I go to prepare a place for you

Saiyaara: love, music and mental well-being

 I watched the Hindi movie Saiyarra today... 

Am truly impressed! After long feel contented to have watched some great acting and a beautiful story.  

Liked most the acting and direction of the movie.  For first timers playing the lead role in a full length movie, I should say, they've done a fabulous job.  Of course, cinematic liberties aside, they appear spontaneous, and perfectly grooved into the role/character.  

Add to that I liked also very many other aspects which the story writer and the director have wonderfully woven into the love story.  It is true that the movie is primarily a love story - and a beautiful one at that too.  But along with it, I hope the audiences also take note and the media promote this movie as a support for the cause of mental well being.  Alzheimer is one mental illness that is specifically mentioned and spoken of, but I guess, it is a good beginning to help us Indians take the stigma out of such mental illnesses.  The movie also shows and explicitly states - rightly - how some such situations can be sensibly handled: the aspect of family support, regularity, role of emotions, medication, ambience...  

Then there is the family dimension that is upheld by the movie.  Be it in and through alcohol addiction, or facing Alzheimers... the irreplaceable strength and support of a loving and caring family.  The ending scene of the wedding, adds to the Indian cultural aspect of marriage and togetherness. 

The aspect of music serves as the invisible backbone/background of the whole movie.  But in a very clear way proving that music can be a very sensible way of handling mental well being. Well, let's say linking music, emotions and memories.  In this context, music evoking emotions and thereby reliving memories.  Those who have experience or know something about Alzheimer will realise the great link between the non-cognitive aspect (repeated actions, habits, hobbies...) and memories. 

Last but not the least, a typical characteristic of India: cricket!  Though not really necessary, the scenes and involvement of cricket into the storyline does not seem totally out of place.  

Google Doodle summarises India today

 The Google doodle on the occasion of the Indian Independence day of this year is an interesting summary of what India stands or means for the rest of the world... as of today: 

Illustrated by Makarand Narkar and Sonal Vasave

There's the space expeditions, cricket, chess, and pottery art (Jaipur). This is a rather neat summary of what India is all about today!  

Of course, there could a million other things that could have been depicted, but given the limited scope, I think this collage is a rather decent depiction of features that best describe India today. 

Freedom

 On the day we Indians celebrate the Independence day of our nation, I'm gladly reminded of what I learnt while teaching Anthropology at Karunapuram, specifically about human freedom.  The distinction between freedom FROM and freedom FOR.  That these two are like the two sides of the same coin and that one cannot be had without the other, lest freedom loses its essence. 

If we have gained independence from the Britishers, we need to also have the aspect of independence FOR self-governance. Merely remembering the past, without contextualising it today, will only be a dead commemoration and not a living celebration. 

Thus the best expression about freedom: Freedom is not the right to do as one pleases, but it is the liberty to do as one ought to do. 

Feminism redefined!

 One of our priests, Cheru, who is already renown for his mix-ups and confusions, approached another priest and was speaking of someone as a feminist.  The listener, knowing the one in discussion, wondered if there was something about the person in discussion, which he was not aware of. So he continued listening to Cheru.  And Cheru kept using the word 'feminist' and 'feminism' to describe him.  Soon he realised that Cheru had totally misunderstood the meaning of the word 'feminist'. 

What he actually meant was 'womaniser'!! 

Pastoral service!

 Yesterday a youngster wanting to make his confession was directed to my office by one of our staff members (who did not know what exactly he was asking for!).  I was more than neck-deep in some urgent and complicated stuff, juggling more than a couple of them delicately.  Nonetheless, I tried to locate a Priest to hear his confession. That's when he said he wanted to confess in Malayalam.  So the search was narrowed down still further.  Unfortunately no one was immediately available and I asked the young man if he could come a little while later - more than for him, I was making time for myself. To my surprise, he returned exactly at the specified time. 

This time I walked up, with the young man in tow, to the neighbouring community in search of a priest.  I didn't find any - at least none who could speak Malayalam. So I again asked him for some more time.  I got back to my office.  And again, at the agreed time, there appears the young man at my door.  Looking at the fervour of this youngster, this time I was more than eager to assist.  

Ultimately I approached Fr AR Jose. He was in bed, unable to get up, due to his illness and was merely covered in a bedsheet.  Initially he wanted to get into his wheel chair but I thought that would be asking too much of him. So I convinced him to stay in bed, got him a stole and led the young man to his bedside. And returned to my office! 

My greatest joy in this whole episode was to be able to facilitate the reception of the sacrament for a young man so greatly desirous of it.  Greater joy was when the young man, after making his confession, joyfully came looking for me to thank me.  This act of mine may not be counted as a sacramental service, but is certainly pastoral!  And who says, Brothers cannot do pastoral work!! 

Maximilian Kolbe

 Today we commemorate the feast of Maximilian Kolbe, the saint of the holocaust who offered his life in exchange for that of his fellow prisoner.  

What drives home for me on this day, as I recall his heroic act of sacrifice, is what I remember telling my students years ago:  Dying for Christ is rather easy; what isn't is living like Christians!  

Speaking during a lesson in Anthropology, in the section on human emotions and habits, I recall making this point very emphatically to the students (not that I prepared for it; it was very very extemporary). The Church did not make Kolbe a saint purely because he, at that crucial point of time, offered himself as a substitute to the fellow prisoner.  It is because the Church and we recognise that he could act so, because he was used to it.  Making a choice for the good of the others, placing the other before oneself, being selfless were virtues ALREADY practised and lived by this man.  The act in that prison, was not an on the spur reaction, without thought and preparation. Of course, none immediately.  But certainly he had made placing the other before oneself, a habit; not a once in a way act.  

Maximilian Kolbe could die for his companion (and God) because he LIVED for God and his people!  He didn't have to make a big sacrifice at that point of time; because he had consistently and consciously made such decisions and choices, for long, until that time! 

Most people think that he died of starvation and thirst in the prison; he didn't. He, along with three others (out of the 10) isolated and starved, as a deterrent for the other prisoners to try to escape the prison, survived even after two weeks.  And since the Nazi guards wanted to end this 'lesson' quick and for need of space, decided to end the episode by injecting the lethal injection of carbolic acid.  And so it was that after being deprived of food and water for two weeks, he was administered the carbolic acid injection! 

Jordan turned back on its course

 My ignorance of the Bible came to the fore (for myself, once again!) as I read the first reading during the Mass today.  It was the passage where the Israelites pass through the river Jordan on dry ground, with the ark of the covenant parting the waters!  Just the same as the Isrealites were escaping the Egyptians passed through the Red Sea!  

What surprised me was this instance of the people of Israel passing through the Jordan (river) on dry ground.  I never before came across this passage!!!  I was under the impression that the incident of the Red Sea was the only one of its kind. Now I know that the Israelites had made walking through water, without getting wet or drowned, a habit! 

As I read this passage during the Mass, the meaning of the Psalm that we read for our morning (or evening?) prayers, where it says 'Jordan turned back on its course'.  So that Psalm (no. 114) was referring to this incident. I had no clue! 

Whew! 

The title 'Mary Help of Christians'

 The title, Mary Help of Christians, though not coined by Don Bosco was most promulgated by Don Bosco, within the Catholic Church.  Although initially, the title most used in the Oratory of Don Bosco was 'Seat of wisdom, pray for us'.  It is only in the early 1860s that  the invocation 'Mary Help of Christians' came to be in use and by 1867 came to be the mainstay of the Salesian prayer. 

Furthermore, the title, 'Mary, Help of Christians' is not used in the early editions of the Companion of Youth (the magazine/prayer book that Don Bosco wrote for the youth of his times - relevant even today!). 

The other most frequently used invocation in Mary's name was 'the Immaculate'.  Don Bosco particularly was fond of this title because it offered all, especially the young, the model and inspiration, to grow in purity of virtue.  In order to appease the Virgin, the young would be moved to make all necessary efforts (more out of fear and reverence) to avoid sin.  

Kalam Eineh (The words of his eyes)

Finally, found the original of this song... an Egyptian song by Sherine. 

Very many are using it to promote the Palestinian side, but it has nothing to do with the ongoing war.  It is a actually a love song, from the perspective of the lady. 

Kalam Eineh in Arabic means 'The words of his eyes'. The music is composed by Hassan El-Shafei and is quite captivating. I find it quite appealing to the ears and the heart! 

With English translation of the words... 

For more about the Egyptian song and the actual songs in favour of the Palestinian side, read this blog post. 

An old Hindi song

 Chanced upon this very old hindi song... lovely! 

Liked the way the verses are a duet, a response to the preceding verse... not to say anything about the MEANING in the lyrics! Just beautiful. 

Herd theory

 

Jim Lovell: The Apollo 13 astronaut

 I read the sad news of the death of Jim Lovell, the famous astronaut of Apollo 13, who mouthed the iconic words: Houston, we've had a problem. 

As I read about his death, I came across the following news article on BBC: Jim Lovell, Apollo 13 astronaut, dies aged 97 

Very inspiring story of the man Jim Lovell was, right since his childhood.  How he pursued his dream right from the early age of 5.  How he made sensible choices in order to fulfil his dream.  

Jim Lovell, the captain of Apollo 13

It was interesting to note that even though he never managed to land on the moon, he lived contented that he did his best.  He got to live his dream: that of being an astronaut.  

I liked one of the lines in the news article, describing the Apollo 13 space mission: The mission was Nasa's greatest failure and, without question, its finest hour. 

The crew of the ill-fated Apollo 13: Jack Swigert, Jim Lovell and Fred Haise

Goes without saying, the movie Apollo 13, starring Tom Hanks continues to be one of my favourite movies! Of the many good and great aspects of that movie, is that the movie shows the whole rescue attempt of Apollo 13 as a team work. While the three crew members did best what they could, their whole back up team here on earth, spared no effort.  The movie does not miss out that effort of the back up team either.  

Old hobbies, good memories!

 After long, more than 3 years later, felt the thrill of repairing a laptop!  This time, mine.  The last couple of days the laptop fan was giving trouble and I needed to replace it. So today after lunch, I picked up my laptop repair and spares kit, opened up my laptop, removed the fan, checked online if a replacement is available anywhere nearby, found one (in our regular computer peripheral store), bought it, fitted it and viola!!! All within 2 hours.  

The excitement of getting a work done and that too one that you have long since not attempted, more for want of time and space than anything else, is great. I distinctly remember getting hooked on to this hobby of repairing laptops during the pandemic, while in the UK. That's one of the many memorable experiences during my stay on the English soil.  

Today it was the replacement of my Dell 15 series 3501 model CPU fan.  

Can Salesian Brothers be rectors

Can Salesian Brothers be rectors?

The question itself is wrongly posed. Rather than ask whether ‘Can SB be made rectors?, one should ask, ‘Who should be rectors?’ It is not about priests or brothers, but persons with charisma, with the passion of DB, with leadership skills who need to be appointed rectors! And in that list of qualities needed to be a rector, if priesthood is not a non-negotiable, then so be it. 

Let the holy ones among us, pray for us; the intelligent ones, teach us; and the prudent ones, lead us. (Fr Agilan)

What one needs to work on is the attitudinal change; a change about the perception of a leader.  In that sense I appreciate the GC 29 placing this question, under the structural proposals, rather than in the core topics of discussion. The argument of rectorship on the basis of priesthood and brotherhood, and whatever decision we arrive at on the basis of that criterion, is only doing a disservice to the congregation and the society at large. One direct negative outcome of it would be that the apprehensive and pessimistic attitude we live and exhibit towards the Salesian collaborators will continue! 

For example, if I’m genuinely interested in the welfare of the young people of a school, I’ll ensure that one who is best suited for them would be appointed as principal. Even if that person is a lay person, who is imbued with the spirit of DB. Why should we deny the young, the competence and spirit of a capable lay person; that too purely to give the ‘cassock’ or ‘my friend’ or ‘a titled SDB’ a chance? But if I have no objection to someone passionate about DB and academically competent, as the principal of a school, then what has changed is the attitude; not the role, not the position. My ‘position’ as an SDB, far from being ignored or denigrated, has only been enriched because I have acted in the best interest of the children. We need to strive for such an attitudinal change rather than engage ourselves in power games. 

To those who fear that tomorrow a Salesian collaborator will be proposed and appointed a rector, we need to educate him or her to see that only a Salesian is to be the rector of a house. Therefore, it is then to clarify the identity of a Salesian (as consecrated to God and committed to the young). A Salesian collaborator however committed to the young he or she may be, is not a consecrated religious. 

Again, as a Salesian what marks me out is not my priesthood or brotherhood but my CONSECRATION (something most of us Salesians ourselves either do not know, or understand or are unwilling to accept). So even without being a priest I can be a Salesian – this no one can dispute (and if someone does, then the Salesian Brothers are not Salesians at all; so no question of whether he can be a rector or not!). 

Last of all, I joined the congregation because I loved Don Bosco and wanted to live and work like him. I did not join the congregation to become a rector or principal or administrator or (least of all) the role that I'm now carrying out. Moreover, when I made my profession AS A BROTHER, I was very well aware that a brother is not appointed as the superior. So, the ongoing debate – amusing as it sounds – is something I’m the least bothered to break my head about! I only take this opportunity to see how the Brothers identity, and all the more, the Salesian identity, was, is and will be defined...!