Tractors, Tanks, Treason & Trump

his piece is being written in the evening of Republic Day. This morning I had ad- dressed a Flag Hoisting gathering and spoke about democracy in India and the TUSA, about the farm agitation and the Trump negation of his election. As a conscientious citizen, not a pseudo desh bhakt, I enjoy watching the annual Republic Day parade in New Delhi. In my morning speech I had spoken about the two parades to be held later that day; the first, the achievement one that I will call the Tank Parade, and the second, the aspirational one, that I will appropriately call the Tractor Parade.

By the time I got to see the Tank Parade the military part was over. I saw a few floats and dances followed by the air show. For once, it did not enthuse me. For all the talk of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self Dependant India) the aircraft on display were either Russian, American or French! So what were we showcasing?

I found the tableaux insipid, and the commentary even worse. When the tableau of the hearing impaired was going past, the commentator referred to them as speaking body language, instead of sign language. It seemed a hurriedly put together affair. The flair and flamboyance of the PM were also conspicuously absent, as also his flashy head gear. This year he wore a more sedate flat turban, and the tension was palpable on his face, as also on that of some of his ministerial colleagues.

The reason soon became obvious, as split screen images began to flash the other parade – the Tractor one. The first images were indeed disturbing, of Nihangs (warrior Sikhs) on horseback, with naked swords. Then followed images of thousands of farmers and their tractors. Next came the physical removal of the police barricades, tear gas, baton charges, minor scuffles, as the incensed farmers broke ranks, and chose to head for the Red Fort; a digression from their assigned route.

When being interviewed some farmers accused what they called the Godi Media of being biased against them. Some TV channels attempted a balanced coverage of the unfolding events, while others chose to question the farmers for not sticking to the designated route. We also saw some tractors aggressively whirling around to put the cops on the defensive. But largely, considering the numbers, their parade was shorn of violence.

They ultimately reached the Red Fort and even hoisted a Sikh religious emblem, the Nis- han Sahib, on the flagpole in the forecourt of the Fort. They were subsequently removed by the cops who were now showing much more restraint than earlier.

Thereafter some sanctimonious politicians and news anchors began to condemn the “vio- lence and desecration” of the Red Fort. I found their words shallow, seeking to be politi- cally correct. I did not share their “correctness”. (Contd.. on p. 3) Nation wants to know When Arnab Goswami was the an- VIEWS on NEWS chor of Times Now TV channel, he was known for his hard hitting and fearless planned manipulation is contemplat- debates taking on the governments ing legal remedy. The top bosses of the and opposition parties with his acerbic BARC connived with certain elements tongue. Some parties even boycotted including the management of the Re- him for his acidulous barbs. He was public TV for huge pecuniary benefits. by Marshall Sequeira seen as an epitome of righteousness Reports suggest even financing their who stood for truth. Viewers waited overseas holidays by Arnab giving some for his incisive debates. Other chan- $12,000/- The chats bear testimony to course, it is not that easy but the asy- nels looked weak and ineffective – un- this grand unholy nexus. lum seeker is no ordinary person. He able to make an impact. Undoubtedly, Remember when Arnab was arrest- has the money power [but did not want he exposed many a scams and wrong ed in abetment to suicide case, a num- to repay the loans to Indian banks] and doings with his investigative journalism ber of senior union ministers, BJP Chief will use the same to see that he does and proper homework. Not many could and BJP CMs backed him to the hilt not have to return to India. match his crusade to expose corruption which ‘baffled’ the general public. Even Ordinarily asylum is granted to especially among politicians. His unre- in the TRP scam the BJP tried to stop someone fearing political or religious lenting tirade against the BJP stopped the Uddhav government from pursuing persecution in his or her country. That abruptly the moment he launched his the matter. In a clever move, some com- is not the issue in Mallya’s case. He is channel – Republic. In a 360 degrees plaint [TRP manipulation] was filed in required to face the Indian courts which U-turn, he became government friendly UP and immediately there was clamour enjoy good international reputation as and directed his onslaught against par- for CBI to take over the entire investiga- being transparent and fair. All the courts ties challenging the BJP with emphasis tion. It transpires that the forensic audit in the UK rejected his claims and fears. on Gandhis/Vadras. In doing so, he of the BARC affairs in June 2020, which The Indian government even spruced projected himself as a new Messiah showed gross irregularities, was known up one of the prisons to meet European to take on the dynasty. He called them to the Ministry. If the chats are to be standards though all convicted persons Tukde tuke gang, Urban Maoists, Nax- believed some Minister had agreed to should be treated alike with no special als and even anti-nationals parroting keep it under wraps obviously to ben- favours. With no other remedy left for the BJP terminology. He managed to efit the Republic TV. In his chats Arnab the fugitive, he has made his last bid. put ‘holier-than-thou’ façade for a long boasted of his proximity with senior BJP Even if he fails he can always tap the time till the bubble suddenly burst and ministers at the Centre. He had access European Court for justice despite the how? His image has taken a big hit. to the most sensitive news. Who fed this Brexit. Thereafter he could move the The charge sheet in the now fa- to him? Is Republic TV a BJP channel? Human Rights Commission. mous TRP scam exposes the extent to He has put the BJP in a quandary to face Should UK have entertained Mal- which the system is corrupted by the the music in Parliament with a demand lya’s request in the first place? The active connivance of a few individuals for JPC. BJP will defend Republic TV Home Secretary Priti Patel had vowed with power to manipulate. As the in- till the end as it suits them. The reality that she would bring in legislation to vestigations show this malpractice was is that India may boast of a ‘free media’ make asylum more difficult particularly subsisting well before Republic TV was but by no means an ‘independent’ media those with criminal record. With this po- launched. It is revealed that this chan- – far from it. Either we have those who sition, it will be hard for the UK authori- nel had studied the rot in the system cozy up to the ruling dispensation. Oth- ties to consider his plea favourably. Yet and planned, much before its debut, on ers take a cautious line - fence-sitters. there are many who are inimical to In- how to exploit the system which could ‘Republic of India’ deserves a fearless dia and will cite human rights violations catapult it to the top position. This pre- and independent media to strengthen particularly in J &K. It will not surprise planned coup of sorts gave this chan- democracy which at times looks a some- many, if the UK government finds a nel undue advantage as a leading what fragile. What is really happening – way out. After all UK is fast becom- channel with attendant benefits aris- the nation would like to know. ing a safe haven for rich fugitives like ing from high advertisement rates. He ***** the Modis and more who have made bragged about being the No. 1 channel UK their home. Wonder if anybody for weeks and months leaving others UK Asylum for Mallya? with no real financial resources will get far behind. It was always a mystery as In a shocking disclosure, the lawyer such royal treatment. Granting asylum to how a new channel could become of the fugitive Vijay Mallya of Kingfisher to Mallya could impact Indo-UK rela- No 1 that fast. Everybody was fooled. fame has revealed that the accused in tions. By the way, earlier he had cited When the whole rot came into the open the UK court has indeed applied for asy- Covid-19 as an excuse. But now, Mr he was furious and tried to vociferously lum in the UK. For years the accused Mallya, you may be much safer in India take on the state Police Commissioner has fought the cases against him in that than the UK which is fighting the deadly – ‘Ulta chor kotwal ko date’. He even country where he lost from time to time. mutants with harsh measures. Perhaps challenged the top cop but we should One wonders how a person accused not be surprised if the cop has the last of criminal wrongdoing in India should you may like to return to India and even laugh. The rival channel Times Now even be considered for asylum. Of get a free vaccine. which was denied the top slot through 2 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 Advertisement. Tariff THE SECULAR CITIZEN Over all size 21.5 cms x 27cms  Print area 18 cms x 25.5 cms Full pg. back Colour (19 cms x 24 cms) Rs. 18,000 A National family WEEKLY Center spread colour(39 cms x 23.5 cms Rs. 18,000 Vol.30 Issue No.6 February 8-14, 2021 Rs.10/- Full pg. inside Cover colour(18 cms x 24 cms) Rs. 12,000 Full pg. inner colour (18 cms x 24 cms) Rs. 10,000 99, Perin Nariman Street, Fort, Mumbai - 400 001. Half pg. 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(Contd.. from p. 1) the sun of yet another Tank Parade, its show of strength. Now to the fourth T – Trump, who I had I was immediately reminded of the in- referred to this morning. His rejection famous Red Fort Trial of 1945, where The Sarkar seems intoxicated with its of the election result, and the assault three colleagues of Netaji Subhash own power, and electoral successes, on Capitol Hill, are well documented Chandra Bose were tried for treason based on emotive religious slogans, and bear no repetition. In the light of by a British military court. They were blatant misuse of money power, and the Sikh religious symbol being used condemned to death by hanging. They demonising “the other”. I am re- in the Tractor Parade I am drawing a were General Shahnawaz (a Muslim), minded of what sociologists tell us, parallel with the Capitol Hill assault. Col Prem Sehgal (an agnostic Hindu) that violence is the option of those and Major Gurbax Singh Dhillon (a who have nothing to lose. There were TV images of Trump sup- Sikh). However, the nation Even a docile deer will use porters who had entered the Senate rose as one to oppose the its pointed antlers when hall and occupied the Speaker’s podi- mock military trial. Sens- brought to bay. Self-de- um. What shocked me was their “Hal- ing the belligerent mood of fence or assertion of one’s leluiahs”. They were praising Jesus the nation, the British rul- legitimate rights cannot and attributing their success to him! It ers relented and gave the be called violence, even if is no secret that Trump, Bible in hand, “offenders” an honourable there are some off shoots had evoked strong religious senti- pardon. I confirmed these of the same. (In military ments from Christian fundamentalists events from Comrade Sub- parlance this is referred to and evangelicals. ashini Ali Sehgal ex MP, the by chhotebhai * as collateral damage, and daughter of Col Prem Seh- moral theologians call it the What is not so commonly known is that gal and Padmavibhushan double effect) he also had the support of conserva- Capt Lakshmi Sehgal. tive elements in the Catholic Church, To the contrary, the pride and obstina- including from its bishops. There Contrast the action of the videshi im- cy of the Sarkar is the greater violence, have been videos of Catholic priests perialists with our own deshi political unleashed on the agitating farmers. condemning Joe Biden for his liberal dispensation. The Modi Sarkar was When a dam bursts it sweeps aside views on sexual ethics and abortion, unmoved by thousands of farmers everything in its path. even though he is a devout practicing camping for two months in the bitter Catholic. While Pope Francis wrote cold and rain on the capital’s borders. The jury is still out on the Tractor Pa- him a warm letter of encouragement Their tear gas, barricades and water rade, though there are reports now on his election, Abp Jose Gomez, the cannons had failed to remove them, of a BJP sympathiser having led the president of the US Conference of neither then, nor today. Over a hun- breakaway group to the Red Fort, to Catholic Bishops, issued him a stern dred deaths and growing unrest left discredit the farmers. Not improbable. the Sarkar unmoved as it basked in (Contd.. on p. 14) 8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 3 tion, and by following Natural Family World Marriage Day! Planning! Speaking on 27September 2018, to an audience of decans, priests and laypeople, Pope Francis renewed his call for a ‘Permanent Catechumenate’! “It is essential for couples to receive ongoing formation, both before and after their wedding … for marriage is Drs. Hazel & Trevor Colaso do what I command” (John 15:12-14). a vast, complex and delicate apostolic Lord Jesus also visualized an ideal field that requires the full energy and orld Marriage Day (WMD) marriage of devoted union, raising it enthusiasm of the Church!” honors husband and wife as to a Sacrament of Matrimony! – “In the fountain of the family – the beginning the Creator made them Saints Peter and Paul’s Advice: Wthe basic unit of society. It salutes the male and female. For this reason, a It would be indeed elevating and in- beauty of their faithfulness, sacrifice, man will leave his father and mother spiring for every married couple to fol- joy and even their stress in daily mar- and be united to his wife. So, they are low the practical counsel of our chief ried life! no longer two but one flesh. There- Apostles: fore, what God has joined together, let “Husbands live with your wives in an If one were to describe marriage’s ten- no one separate” (Matthew 19:4-6). understanding way, showing honor to der intimacies, discover them in these This applies also to the woman. woman as the weaker vessel; since 8-unifing doubles! Adam in madame; they also are heirs to the grace of life, man in woman; he in she; male in fe- Besides, the God of Israel strongly so that your prayers may not be hin- male; hero in heroine; other in mother; disapproves of divorce! – “To divorce dered. All of you have unity of mind, love in beloved; and Mr. in Mrs. And so your wife is to overwhelm her with cru- sympathy, brotherly love, a tender both you better-halves, you are in the elty! So, guard your heart; do not be heart, and a humble mind” (1 Peter ‘marry-age’! May your prayers always unfaithful to your wife” (Malachi 2:16). 3:7-8). end with an “Amen”!! Holy Spouses Society! “Wives submit to your own husbands History, Symbol & Theme: This was the dream of Fr. Larry Tos- as to the Lord. For the husband is the The idea of celebrating ‘marriage’ be- chi, an Oblate of St. Joseph, and head of the wife, even as Christ is the gan in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, U.S.A. Parish Priest of Our Lady of Guada- Head and Savior of the Church, his in 1981, when couples encouraged lupe Church, Bakersfield, California, Body … Husbands loves your wives, their mayor, governor and their Catho- USA. Online: HolySpouses.org. It cel- as Christ loved the Church and gave lic Bishop to proclaim St. Valentine’s ebrates as the first of 8-steps, *The Himself up for her; so that He might Day (14 February) as, “We Believe in Holy Eucharist or Mass on 23 January, sanctify her and cleanse her by the Marriage Day”! The event was so suc- the feast of the Holy Spouses, Mary & washing of water and the Word. // cessful that the idea was adopted by Joseph; by which husbands and wives Train the young women to love their the Worldwide Marriage Encounter’s learn to emulate them. Couples could husbands and children; to be self- National Leadership. By 1982, 43 gov- also renew their marriage commit- controlled, pure, kind and submissive ernors officially proclaimed this Day – ment on their Wedding Day! to their husbands, so that the Word of SecondSunday in February as WMD! Fr. Larry in 1984 also developed *the God may not be reviled” – (St. Paul in Husband and wife are symbolically Ephesians 5:21-26 // Titus 1:4-5). seen as ‘two candle-like figures’; re- “Life-Giving-Love”! This 2nd step, a minding everyone that married life is a two-day workshop, became the seed- Marriage Prayerfor Couples! vocation to light up the world (cf. Mat- bed from which the Holy Spouses So- Abba-Father, we thank You for Your tre- thew 5:14)! In the center the couple is ciety would germinate and grow. The mendous gift of the Sacrament of Mar- joined by a ‘red heart’ – focusing on other six are, *Pray at least part of riage! Help us to witness to its glory by love as the power that comes from the the HolySpouses.org/Rosary together a life of growing intimacy. Teach us the bosom of one’s interior– physically, weekly. *Enthrone a Holy Spouses im- beauty of forgiveness, so that we may spiritually and emotionally! age of (Mary & Joseph) in the house. become more and more one in heart, *Live marriage loyally and lovingly as mind, and body. Strengthen our dialogue The Theme for WMD has always a call from God. *Respect children as and help us become living signs of Your been, “Love-One-Another” – the direc- the supreme fruit of marriage. *Uphold love! Make us grow more in love with Your tive given by Lord Jesus, “My com- the Church’s teaching on the perma- Church, so that we may be renewed espe- mand is that you ‘love one another’ as nent Sacramental union ofMatrimony. cially through the Most Holy Eucharist the I have loved you. Greater love has no *Develop an openness to procreation, Bread of our life! Make us living signs of on than this – to lay down one’s life for right from conception until natural unity, in the Name of Jesus, Our Lord and one’s friend. You are my friends if you death; by avoiding artificial contracep- Brother. Amen! 4 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 through the noble ideals of liberty, justice, equality and fraternity, has be- come a reality even after 7 decades of our Republic .Something it seems, that is more easily stated than prac- tised. — A. F. Nazareth, Alto Porvorim, Goa

Kamala Harris break coconuts in a Hindu temple for good luck in keeping with Hindu and her religious traditions. Her aunt arranged to have On Christian beliefs 108 coconuts broken, as the figure is lucky. And though Jews do not look at baptism

Kamala Harris was sworn in as inter-faith marriages with favour, she broke a glass in keeping with Jew- I am a little puzzled after hearing the 49th vice-president of the US on the sermon of a Redemptorist priest Jan 20th, which significantly came in ish traditions -- signifying the perma- nence of marriage, requiring couples during the online celebration of mass. the midst of the 'Week of Prayer for While on the subject of baptism, he Christian Unity' (Jan 18-25). She took to stay together in good times and bad . Kamala celebrates both Christ- stated that all persons who are bap- the oath with her hand on the Bible tized are called Christians. Then what ( in fact 2 Bibles). The religious side mas and the Jewish Hanukkah--a reli- gious festival. about the un-baptised infant child, of Kamala's life mirrors the unity was his next question. What is his/ of religions and the fact that one In trying to find unity, Christians may take some cues from Kamala her religion? Unable to get an an- can hold strong religious beliefs yet swer from the congregation, he cat- engage with other faiths with equal Harris' openness to all faiths while re- maining steadfast to her own. egorically stated that the un-baptised felicity. child is also a Christian, because the Kamala's mother Shyamala Go- parents are Christian. The question palan was a Hindu from India who —Prof Robert Castellino Orlem Malad which naturally arises then is why do left India at the age of 19 for further we baptize the child. Is religion is also studies. She died in 2009. Her father tramsmitted through inheritance? Donald Harris (83) from Jamaica is —A. F. Nazareth, a Christian (Anglican) . Her husband Black day for Alto Porvorim, Goa Doug Emhoff is Jewish. On fam- ily visits to India with her mother, Indian democracy little Kamala and her younger sister Maya visited several Hindu temples The horrible and senseless acts of Flat for RENT . Kamala's parents divorced when violence unleashed by the protesting she was only 7 . Her mother took her farmers on the 72nd anniversary of Available for rent to a nearby Hindu temple where she the Indian Republic, is a shameful act and her sister would sing occasion- of defiance and belligerence, which 1 BHK unfurnished ally. As her father was not around will go down in Indian history as an- to take her to church, a neighbour other black day for Indian democracy. flat in Vakola, Regina Shelton 'living downstairs', It is unfortunate that a peaceful pro- Santacruz East, took Kamala and her sister to a Bap- test for over 2 months by disgruntled tist Church on Sundays where they farmers had to end up with acts of vio- Mumbai, 560 sq. ft. would sing in the children's choir. Re- lence , stone-throwing, smashing of gina would also read passages from security barriers, disruption of public with pipe gas & the Bible to the girls and this formed life , damage to property , and injuries the basis of her faith. Kamala used to policemen and protesters , includ- 24 hours the same Bible at the Oath taking ing one death. Such a situation could ceremony. Today Kamala identifies well have been prevented had there water supply. herself as a Black Baptist. been a strict law and order enforce- Kamala is at home to diverse reli- ment by the Delhi police. Finally, such gions. She now visits Hindu temples sacrilegious acts of violence and defi- Contact owner and Baptist churches. At one point in ance also raise several questions as her life, when she was contesting for to whether the vision of the founding 9833452125 / the post of Attorney General of Cali- fathers of our Constitution of ensur- fornia she asked her aunt in India to ing a just and equitable Indian society 8356063909

8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 5 In fact, andolan should not be so peaceful that the government can sleep over it for months together! It must be disturbing to the government and even sensitising the public! How Can Any Andolan Be Peaceful?

ew Delhi witnessed violent The news is creeping in now re- probed. There is a conspiracy behind scenes on Republic Day as garding the foreign elements like Deep it" farmers participating in a trac- Sidhu who squeezed into the aan- Ntor rally clashed with the police. They dolan. The tractor parade was hit by a Though the BJP feigns to know noth- broke barricades and stormed the Red government conspiracy. Satnam Pattu ing, the people by now recognise the Fort. The Police responded with tear of Kisan Majdoor Sangharsh Samiti RSS backed terrorists. Deep Sidhu gases and lathi charge. One protester was not a member of Kinsan Morcha. hoisting a religious flag at the Red was killed and nearly 400 police per- He was independently planning on the Fort, Kapil Mishra in Delhi riots, Gunja sonnel were injured. Whom to blame? previous day to take his group to Lal Kapur entering as woman in burkha in A reporter writes, “About two lacks kila. The Intelligence Agency should Shahin Baug, giving anti-national slo- tractors were participating and at least have known it. Deep Sidhu, an RSS gans and Kapil Gurjar firing shots in double the number of farmers. Was man was with Satnam’s group. Police the crowd; Gopal firing in Jamiyat inci- any shop vandalised? Any private car let them go to Lal Killa smoothly and dent; Sadhvi in Malegaon and so on! smashed? Any house smashed; at even hoisted the religious flag at the The problem is that the Godi media least a flower from a garden plucked? Fort. NDTV news shows Police seat- does not proclaim them as terrorists! Was any girl molested on the road? ed in front peacefully watching the All culprits at the Red Fort are recog- Any ambulance obstructed”? Then scene. Sidhu was even allowed to slip nised. What happens to them? But the what prevents us from calling away without any hazard after kisan leaders are booked under sev- it ‘peaceful’? hoisting his flag! Knowing facts eral sections! Responding to a ques- from independent media one tion on farmer leaders being named Was it to make the andolan can safely make a statement : in FIR, Yogendra Yadav said, "FIR, peaceful, a responsibility of “Anti-social elements had per- jail and torture are rewards of move- the Kisan Morcha leaders petrated the violence to "tor- ments!" alone? Safeguarding peace is pedo" the peaceful agitation mainly the responsibility of the Fr. Michael G. against the farm laws, planted THE END OF KISAN ANDOLAN? Government and the police. Vasai by the government and guided After two months of peace- by the Delhi police.” I am afraid in the days to come worst ful protests on Delhi’s borders and 11 things may happen and the govern- rounds of negotiations with the central Police could have halted the trac- ment will be responsible as an elder government, the farmers’ protest lead- tors entering the forbidden routes. brother, for not being solicitous to ers cannot be blamed for a violent turn They could have prevented the per- avoid it. A reporter writes, “OûÏuÉÏ cÉælÉ- with their Republic Day tractor parade sons climbing up the Lal kila to hoist sÉÉåÇ lÉå ÌMüxÉÉlÉ AÉÇSÉåsÉlÉ ÄZÉiqÉ WûÉålÉå MüÐ ÄZÉÑzÉÏ spiralling into chaos Tuesday. The a strange yellow flag at the national qÉåÇ AÉeÉ zÉÉqÉ zÉæÇmÉålÉ MüÐ oÉÉåiÉsÉåÇ pÉÏ ZÉÉåsÉ sÉÏ home ministry totally failed on 26th. flag stand. Anyway, the faces of those jÉÏÇ| sÉåÌMülÉ oÉÉÄeÉÏ mÉsÉOû cÉÑMüÐ Wæû| WûËUrÉÉhÉÉ AÉæU A farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal who climbed up are very clear in vid- rÉÔmÉÏ qÉåÇ ÌMüxÉÉlÉ UÉiÉ qÉåÇ xÉÄQûMü mÉU AÉ aÉrÉÉ| claimed, “Over two lakh tractors and eos. The police should recognise and ÌMüxÉÉlÉ AÉÇSÉåsÉlÉ eÉÉUÏ Wæû| ÌMüxÉÉlÉ ÄMüÉlÉÔlÉ MüÉåqÉÉ many lakhs of people participated in arrest them! Why not? It is proved by qÉåÇ WæÇû| ElÉ ÄMüÉlÉÔlÉÉåÇ MüÐ qÉ×irÉÑ MüÐ bÉÉåwÉhÉÉ WûÉålÉÉ Tuesday's parade. 99.9 percent of now that the police allowed the blun- oÉÉÄMüÏ Wæû| ” Rakesh Tikai cried the fatal the protesters were peaceful". The der to take place purposely, in order day and the agitation revived with his crowd was so big that any terrorist to find an excuse to dismantle the tears. Now the agitation will spread group could have entered the mor- Kisan morcha the following day at Ga- in villages. If the workers and jobless cha and caused mischief. In fact, an- jipur. “India won't tolerate the manner youth join them the end of Modi rule dolan should not be so peaceful that in which the Tricolour was insulted at will not be far! In the meantime our the government can sleep over it for the Red Fort," hon. Min. Prakash Ja- hats off to the farmers at Delhi borders months together! It must be disturbing vadekar said, nor did the agitators re- come with 6 months provision to sit in to the government and even sensitis- joice at the fact. Swaraj India leader agitation! There was a tractor morcha ing the public! Yogendra Yadav, strong support of the in Vasai in support of them on Sunday farmers' agitation, said, "We regret the 24 January. I am happy I was part of it. GOVERNMENT CONSPIRACY. Red Fort incident and accept its moral responsibility. The incident should be Inquilab zindabad!

6 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 shareholders or owners. having big business go for CSR activi- ties to get some rebate in Income Tax It is indeed timely service to vari- and Sales Tax and at the same time get ous strata of society which suf- name and fame in the process. fer for food, shelter, clothing and the support and warmth during old In that context, are Corporate Social age. CSR initiative creates custom- Responsibility funds realizing and ized strategies aligned with your achieving sustainable social change to company’s values, expertise, prod- benefit the undeserved? The answers ucts, stakeholder expectations and are mixed. Let’s look at education, a long-term vision and drive effective stated priority of most CSR entities. implementation leading to long-last- In reality, funds are often deployed in ing change within communities you a one-off, short-term and inputs-orient- work with and causes you espouse. ed manner, like the adoption of a few neighbourhood schools. This fragment- From philanthropists to foundations ed approach has had minimal impact to individual donors, Corporates on the state of public education across Charity Begins At Home propagate informed giving practises, the country. facilitate conversations among sector harity begins at home, but it players, build sector knowledge, help There is no single commonly accepted should not stop there. As a Ger- raise funds for causes, and design pro- definition of corporate social responsi- man proverb says, Charity sees grams that improve lives at a systemic bility but the following US-UK tradition Cthe need and not the cause. This gives level. Corporates work closely with our can be defined as “Corporate social us the boost to be different. Teaching network of NGOs across India to bring responsibility is operating a business your children to be charitable is one of you access to funding, partnerships in a manner which meets or excels the the greatest gifts you can give them. with companies, new models, in-kind ethical, legal, commercial and public Not only are you fostering kindness, but donations, enhanced communications expectations that a society has from the you are helping them along the path to capabilities and much more. business. In the last twenty years, there a happier life — and a better world. has been a sea change in the nature CSR funds can respond to growing in- of the triangular relationship between The entirety of CSR can be discerned terest in this model through an aggre- companies, the state and the society. from the three words this phrase con- gated national fund that is profession- No longer can firms continue to act as tains: corporate, social, and ally managed to expand such independent entities regardless of the responsibility. CSR covers the public-private partnerships interest of the general public. The evo- relationship between corpora- (PPP). Such a fund would lution of the relationship between com- tions and the societies with attract top quality school op- panies and society has been one of which they interact. CSR also erators from India and abroad, slow transformation from a philanthrop- includes the responsibilities collaborating with state or city ic coexistence to one where the mutual that are inherent on both sides governments to provide a interest of all the stakeholders is gain- of these relationships. CSR C.K. Subramaniam scalable, quality education op- ing paramount importance. Companies defines society in its widest tion. We aren’t worried about are beginning to realise the fact that in sense and on many levels, to include contributions by corporates, many of order to gain strategic initiative and to all stakeholder and constituent groups whom have come forward. It is pilfer- ensure continued existence, business that maintain an ongoing interest in the age at the ground level which we need practises may have to be moulded from organization’s operations. Society acts to curb. Experts feel there is a need the normal practise of solely focussing as fertilizer for business to grow, right not only for better reporting of CSR ac- on profits to factor in public goodwill from providing a ground till flourishing tivities, but also more due diligence by and responsible business etiquettes. it successfully. The concept of corpo- implementing agencies. rate social responsibilities originated Charity begins at home and is proved in the year 1950 in the USA. Corporate Join some NGO networks today to appropriate for Azim Hashim Premji as social responsibility is not a difficult make your work strategic, scalable he has given more than 25 percent of concept and can be explained as Cor- and sustainable contribution to soci- his personal wealth to charity. He con- porate – means organized business, ety. CSR activity impact is widespread tinues to carry on the good work and Social - means everything dealing with and intensive. From women's health to it is indeed a fine gesture. Deciding the people, Responsibility - means ac- free eye check-ups for children, from fi- together how to be charitable and talk countability between the two. The term nancial literacy to safe waste disposal, about causes you can support or ac- corporate social responsibility (CSR) from vocation training of youth to em- tivities you can do together, and follow what is generally understood is that ployment opportunities for rural com- through as a family. business has an obligation to society munities - our programs have helped that extends beyond its obligation to its change millions of lives. Even builders

8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 7 Being in the World with Responsibility

“It is our responsibility to The another epitome that I can give Our country is the amalgama- save this world and all the you is those intellectuals who made tion of a large number of religions, cul- the things happened are the drafting tures, traditions languages, atheists creatures on this earth by committee of our Indian Constitution etc. Indian Constitution, the sacred fighting against adharma, in and brought it into effect on 26th Jan book of every citizen which is the uni- order to establish dharma 1950 which we commemorated re- fying factor of all provides its people again.” cently. At this juncture, I would like with right to equality, to freedom, right to quote what John F. Kennedy said, against exploitation, right to freedom Martin Heidegger was a re- “Ask not what your country can do of religion, culture and education and nowned German philosopher of the for you, ask what you can do for your these fundamental rights safeguard 20th century. He will be ever remem- country”, Most often we failed to ask the democratic nature of our country. bered for his contribution towards ourselves what we have done for our It is the finite responsibility of all to phenomenology, hermeneutics and country.” Whereas the preamble of preserve the rich heritage of our con- existentialism. He spoke on Dasein Indian constitution would tell us what stitution from those who try to seduce which means being - in – the – world. our country done and give for us. Our it by actively engaging themselves in According to him, Human beings are preamble assures us with sovereign, opposition to our constitution. It would not spectators rather we are actors, socialist, secular, democratic, and re- be possible when we give priority to always engaged actively in the world. public nature of our country and pro- our country and fulfill the fundamental Even though, we remain as specta- vides justice, liberty, equality to us duties of ours, without fail. tors in the world whatever things hap- and fraternity among us. What is our pen around as would surely affect or contribution towards our country re- Nature-Responsibility: influence directly or indirectly. Human mains always unanswered. There is Our planet is an exquisite beings and the world are entangled beautiful phrase with which my con- place for all species. No matter where with the existence of both. So they are gregation formed me is Freedom with we go on the planet, there are stunning inseparable in nature. In this context, responsibility. I feel this phrase would flora and fauna that seize our atten- we can identify two kinds of be very much felicitous for the tion. They are two very predominant people. One group of people question of our contribution to- aspects of eco-system. Without flora see things happen. These wards our country. Here, I pre- and fauna, human species cannot ex- people can be termed as fer some of the responsibilities ist. The flora generates and releases spectators. They will not re- through which we can contrib- oxygen, which is required by fauna act until and unless they are ute towards our country. for respiratory purposes. In return, the affected. They like to remain Br. Justin Arokia fauna produces and releases carbon in the comfort zone always. Raj SVD Religions-Responsibility: dioxide which is required for photo- Bhopal The another kind of people Our country is the womb to synthesis. So, there is a ubiquitous are those who make things so many religions and reli- of harmony between flora and fauna. happen. These people are actors gious practices, traditions and being Whenever this harmony is disturbed who actively engage in the world ac- spiritualistic and ritualistic in nature. by deforestation, air, water, plastic pol- cording to Heidegger. Social activists, In order to have tolerance among the lution, there will be consequences of Volunteers, Journalists and who raise people belonging to different religions acid rain, ozen depletion, globe warm- the voice of the voiceless come under and worshiping other Gods we need ing, climate change and what not. As this category. The living example that to have religion-responsibility which human beings, we have nature con- I can give you is Fr. Stan Swamy SJ has nothing to do with our religious nectedness for our continuousness. who has been detained in the prison practise and responsibility. Rather, it We need to protect our human race for actively engaging himself in the means that it is the responsibility of from extinction by making preserva- world. I would like to quote here what every citizen of this country to main- tion of nature as our fundamental re- he had said in the interview before his tain peace, harmony among laity of all sponsibility and work on it. arrest by NIA. “I am happy to be the religions and be respecting their sen- part of the process because I am not timents, faith practises and allowing Human-Responsibility: a silent spectator but part of the game them to practise their religious respon- As human beings, we are and ready to pay the price whatever sibilities which is considered to be a expected to fulfil above mentioned may be.” Along with his existence in higher consciousness of every citizen. responsibilities and also as inheritors the world, he made things happened of cognitions and humaneness, we by becoming voice of the voiceless. Constitution-Responsibility:  8 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 (Contd.. from p. 8) KONKANI JOURNALISM DAY and Presentation of have to become good Samaritans to Journalist and Gulab awards those who are wounded physically and mentally and give them solace by The popular Konkani monthly GU- ex-editor of Cine Times, Mr. Enclidas nursing their wounds. Our life on this LAB in association with Fr. Freddy J de Elly, Gulab’s Konkani Writer of the earth similar to the flowing river which da Costa Memorial Trust (FFJDCMT), quenches the purposes of all without denying. In our daily life too, we need to meet the need of all by helping them all the way possible that of flow- ing river. These are the best contribu- tions that we can give to our country. They don’t demand money or wealth but attitudes. In Hinduism, we see God Vishnu taking avatars when dharma declines and adharma out breaksand the last avatara of Vishnu Felicio Cardoso is Kalki avatara for which people are Fr. Freddy J Da Costa expecting. In Christianity, we see Je- year and tenacious and ethical jour- sus, as an Incarnation of God. He Konkani Bhasha Mandal (KBM), FE- nalist Mr. Marcos Gonsalves, Felicio comes to the world to save the people LICIO CARDOSO-che PATTLAVDAR Cardoso’s Journalist of the Year. from their sins and people are expect- (FCP) and Ravindra Bhavan, Margao ing for the Second coming of God. celebrates KONKANI JOURNALISM Senior Journalist and Editor of OHer- But often, our eyes are blind folded DAY on February 2, 2021, at 4.00 aldo, Mr. Alexandre Moniz Barbosa to see the avatara of Kalki and Mes- p.m. at Ravindra Bhavan’s Confer- will grace the occasion as the chief siah within us. We, as human beings ence Hall, Margao, in commemora- guest. are Avatars and Messiahs. It is our re- tion of publication of the first Konkani sponsibility to save this world and all Journal UDENTECHEM SALLOK, on All are cordially invited to attend this the creatures on this earth by fighting February 2, 1889 from Pune by the commemorative function. against adharma, in order to establish late Eduardo Jose Bruno de Souza. dharma again.(Your feedback is most Fausto V. da Costa, welcome: [email protected]) Director and Editor of Prudent Media, (Editor, GULAB) eminent journalist Mr. Pramod Acha- rya will be the guest of honour for the Subscriptions for function and deliver a talk on ‘GÕY- CHI OSMITAI ANI POTRKARITECHI BHUMIKA’ (GOA’S IDENTITY AND Renewal as well as New, can be THE ROLE OF JOURNALISM IN ITS sent through Bank Fund Transfer to any SUSTENANCE) one of the following banks: Tributes will be paid to the pioneers Bank: HDFC Bank and stalwarts of Konkani journalism Branch : CST - Mumbai VT on the occasion. Account Name: The Secular Citizen Current Account No. 03552000006744 The function will also include Fr. Fred- ISFC code: HDFC0000355 dy J Da Costa and Felicio Cardoso or Memorial Day Celebration and fe- Bank: Citizen Credit Co-op Bank Ltd., licitation and presentation of 2019 Fr. Branch : Colaba, Mumbai Freddy J Da Costa Memorial Gulab Account Name: The Secular Citizen awards and Felicio Cardoso’s Jour- CurentAccountNo. 2090031000000489 nalism award to the recipients: Hon. ISFC code: CCBL0209003 MLA of Curtorim, Mr. Aleixio Regi- naldo Lourenco - Gulab’s Personality Please inform us through email: secu- of the year, eminent tiatrist Mr. John [email protected] or through phone: Claro Fernandes, Gulab’s Tiatrist of 9820485389 after transferring the same. the year, noted Konkani writer and

8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 9 Dementia and Mental Health However, we must understand gged on by a friend, I enrolled for that dementia is NOT a natural a free online beginnerscourse process of ageing. Prof. Carol on Dementia run by the Wicking Brayne estimates that approxi- EDementia Research & Education Cen- mately 40-50% cases are pre- horizons by learning a new skill as tre, Tasmania. Initially I baulked at the ventable. If both parents suffered from this involves exercising another part idea since I have not appeared for an dementia, there is a higher risk for the of the brain than hitherto used. exam for over forty years! But then, I child. • While solving crossword and other thought, why not accept the challenge? puzzlesdo help, a better exercise is The classes were truly an eye opener. Some of the signals of dementia are learning a new language with differ- repeating questions, misplacing items ent rules of grammar. It is also sug- Dementia occurs among the elderly. and being unable to find themever – gested that the puzzles we attempt It is a broad term to describe a loss sometimes accusing others of steal- should gradually increase in difficul- of memory, intellect, rationality, social ing, decreased judgment, withdrawal ty. Computerised brain training was skills and normal emotional reactions. from work and society, having issues conducted for patients with demen- Alzheimer’s disease is the most com- with solving problems, forgetting a fa- tia. It was found that an increase mon form accounting for 50% to 70% miliar recipe, difficulty in completing in the level of difficulty of the same of all cases of dementia andis more regular tasks, confusion with time or exercises increased connectivity be- prevalent among men. One rare form place, trouble in understanding visual tween the hippocampus (memory of Alzheimer’s disease that is heredi- images, personality changes. centre) and frontal lobe (planning tary is Familial Alzheimer’s disease and problem solving). (FAD). If a parent has a mutated gene There are three stages of preven- • Cardiovascular diseases brought that causes FAD, each child has a tion/treatment - primary before the about by smoking, excessive alco- 50% chance of inheriting it.Alzheimer onslaught of dementia, secondary hol, diabetes, heart ailments, re- leads to neurons being destroyed and which consists of early detection and peated strokes restrict the blood flow increasing prevalence ofdegenerative enhancing quality of life. Tertiary treat- to the brain thus leading to demen- amyloid plaques or protein fragments ment includes interventions of medi- tia. Prescribed medication such as called beta amyloid and tangles which cation and palliative care. A multi- blood thinners helps to control some are dead and dying nerve cells made variate approach to risk reduction is illnesses. It was suggested to avoid of twisted strands of protein which recommended as enumerated below. red meats and follow a Mediterra- destroy vital cells in the brain.Cell to nean diet rich in nuts, whole grains, cell signals at synapses are • Prof. Michael Valen- fruits,vegetables, fish and olive oil. blocked. zuela spoke of acognitive • Use of drugs like cocaine affect gen- lifestyle and inculcating eral health and could increase de- With dementia, the frontal healthy habits. mentia. lobe and the hippocampus • It was observed that • Physical activity improves cogni- get affected thus coming in those with a college educa- tive ability. Aerobic activity lead to the way of memory, thinking, tion have a better chance increased heartbeats as our breath- planning and learning. As the of reducing the risk of cog- ing becomes more rapid. Hence we disease progresses, the pa- by Monica Fernandes nitive decline in later years should not saunter but walk reason- tient’s personality changes. than those without. This is ably fast, even for 10 minutes, take Regrettably there is no known cure for because more neural pathways are a break and then continue. Group dementia. But it can be controlled and used. The type of job one does is dancing or ballroom dancing is also even prevented with a combination of also important. Does it involve man- suggested as this involves learn- lifestyle choices and drugs. I was sur- aging others or making decisions? ing steps and social contact with prised to learn that lifestyle changes Does it involve problem solving and other dancers. It is suggested that are advocated to those in their twen- out-of-the box thinking? Post retire- we combine aerobic and weight/ ties. Realistically this does not hap- ment pursuits such as contacting and strength training. pen as youth are more concerned in meeting others by doing volunteer • Repeated brain injuries such as in living for the moment. Enjoy now in- work, joining a club, or going to the boxing could result in ‘dementia pu- stead of bothering what will happen church or temple and building larger gilistica’ due to a series of high im- 30 years from now. The elderly ignore social networks have better cogni- symptoms, ascribing them to ageing. tive resilience.It’s fun to broaden our  10 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 (Contd.. from p. 10) expanded to those from 30 to 40 years. It was Republic Day at Bandra discovered that the par- pact concussions. St. Peter’s parish, Bandra celebrated Republic ticipants were following an • Depression in late and mid life day with the flag hoisting and an interfaith ser- unhealthy lifestyle by con- could cause vascular dementia vice. After the flag hoisting and the reading of suming a lot of fast foods, and increase the risk of Alzheim- the preamble to the constitution, Fr. Frazer Mas- not exercising, having a er. Hence it is important to seek carenhas, SJ, the parish priest introduced the treatment and take the prescribed diet full of oil, all of which promoted obesity, elevated Chief Guest, Dr. Rosemarie de Souza, M.D. . anti depressants. He said that Dr. Rosemarie was inducted as the • Good quality sleep is important cholesterol and cardio vas- cular illnesses. Around Chief of Nair Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit and for neurogenesis or growth of new specialized in plasma separation. Dr. Rosemarie brain cells in the hippocampus. A 200 younger people of 20 years were then taught praised the vibrant St. Peter’s community whose new discovery shows that sleep priests and members went all out in helping the clears the brain of various pro- how to avoid the pitfalls of an unhealthy lifestyle. marginalized irrespective of creed through the or- teins and harmful toxins includ- derly distribution of rations and other initiatives. ing beta amyloid. Sleep improves The elderly should not be iso- She gave an absorbing account of how Nair Hos- memory. Obstructive sleep ap- pital coped with the pandemic. nea, where the brain is deprived lated or made to feel a bur- of oxygen for a short. while is a den non-contributing mem- Dr. Rosemarie was first assigned to the Kasturba risk factor ber of society.They should Hospital for attending to Covid-19 cases. Later • We need to control our stress be enveloped with love in the on, Nair Hospital was converted into a hybrid hos- levels as stress releases cortisol. family circle, as difficult as pital handling both Covid and non-Covid patients. When an excess amount of corti- this may sometimes be. Peo- Covid patients were initially treated with Oxygen, sol is in our brain, the function of ple suffering from Alzheimer Hydrochloroquine, Erythromycin and anti-virals. the hippocampus is affected. As sometimes get angry. This Later on the doctors started using Ramdesivir, part of our fight or flight response, was beautifully portrayed in plasma therapy and monoclone antibiotics as blood glucose, which is a source the movie ‘The Notebook’. It recommended by WHO. All treatment was pro- of energy, is diverted from the is not known whether this is vided free of charge to patients, irrespective of hippocampus to our muscles. In due to changes in the brain wealth, caste or creed. Nair Hospital augmented addition, cortisol interferes with or whether the person finds the oxygen supply and increased the diameter of it a challenge to remember. the neurotransmitters' activities, the tubing for oxygen. The Covid ICU strength of Past memories are easier for which prevents normal memory 123 beds was increased by 110 through the inclu- them to access than memo- function. Yoga, prayer, meditation sion of i the other ICUs. A track, trace and treat ries of something that oc- are all ways to control stress. method was used . The lockdown helped in con- curs recently. A friend sent • A study has suggested that the trolling the spread of this dreaded disease. Those me this very touching video polluted air we breathe could also staying in Dharavi and the Worli slums extended of a prima Russian ballerina. have an adverse effect on our full co-operation. Dr. Rosemarie attended Death The psychologist showed brain. Audit Committee meetings daily over zoom to en- her a clip of her during a per- • Researchers rely a lot on MRI sure that fatalities did not increase. As a doctor formance of the Swan Lake scans of patients with Alzheimers. who ventured into the unknown, she had to work in her hey days. Suddenly One such study unearthed a sur- ‘monstrously’ long hours but always wore a tightly she was transported to hap- prising fact. Some patients with fitting surgical mask and necessary gear. more brain damage (Group A) pier times and though wheel were able to function better than chair bound, started doing Dr. Rosemarie said that the community should another group (Group B) with less graceful hand movements continue to care for others and not wait for an- brain damage. A study of their just like she did several other crisis. The pandemic demonstrated our life history revealed that those in years ago. own fragility. We are in God’s hands and by serv- Group A had been more mental- ing one another, we can convert a tragedy into ly active than those in Group B. While early prevention is triumph. . Perhaps this resulted in Group preferable, it is never too late She concluded that serving India is all about a vi- A having a better cognitive resil- to change our lifestyle pat- brant community, such as St. Peter’s, rising to the ience than Group B. terns in order to live a fuller occasion and in so doing, became a beacon of • It is interesting to know that a cognitive lifestyle, irrespec- hope. She called on the Almighty to bless each study was conducted among the tive of our age. Why not opt West London Indian Asian popu- for a better quality of life? and every one of the parish. lation who had high risk factors Dr. Rosemarie’s speech was followed by short such as diabetes, obesity, high l readings from different faiths. BP and were in the age group of — Monica Fernandes 40 to 70 years. Then the study

8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 11 Girl : Dad! I'm in love... 22. What do we have that Adam It's love at second sight! never had? Ancestors. Dad : What’s Love at second sight? ***** 23. Where was Solomon’s temple Girl : When I first saw him, located? he was buying Gutka. On the side of his head.

When I saw him again, page 24. What did Adam say the day be- he was spitting it out of his Lambo- fore Christmas? fishy about it. rghini It’s Christmas, Eve! ***** 12. What kind of man was Boaz be- 25. How does Moses make his cof- ***** fore he married Ruth? fee? 1. What time of day was Adam cre- Absolutely ruthless ated? Hebrews it, obviously. Just a little before Eve. 13. The good Lord didn’t create any- 26. Who do mice pray to? thing without a purpose. Cheesus. 2. Who was the fastest runner in the Mosquitoes come close, though. race? 27. How do you make Holy Water? Adam. He was first in the human 14. What kind of car does Jesus typi- You take some regular water and boil race. cally drive? the devil out of it. A Christler. 3. Why are atoms Catholic? 28. How long did Cain hate his Because they have mass. 15. What do you get if you cross a brother? Jehovah’s Witness and a Unitarian? As long as he was Abel. 4. Why didn’t they play cards on the Someone who goes around knocking Ark? on doors for no apparent reason. Because Noah was always standing 29. Why did God create man before woman? on the deck 16. What excuse did Adam give his Because He didn’t want any advice children about why he no longer lived on how to do it. ***** in Eden? ***** 5. Why didn’t Noah ever go fishing? Your mother ate us out of house and 30. Why did Noah have to punish and He only had two worms. home! discipline the chickens on the Ark? They were using fowl language. 6. Did Eve ever have a date with 17. Which servant of God was the Adam? most flagrant lawbreaker in the Bible? 31. Did you know they had cars in Nope — just an apple. Moses. He broke all 10 command- Jesus’ time? ments at once. 7. Why did the unemployed man get Yup. The Bible says the disciples were all of one Accord. excited while reading his Bible? 18. Who was the first tennis player in He thought he saw a job. the bible? 32. Why do they say ‘Amen’ at the Joseph because he served in Pha- end of a prayer instead of ‘Awomen’? 8. Does God love everyone? raoh’s court Same reason we sing Hymns instead Yes, but He prefers “fruits of the ***** of Hers! spirit” to “religious nuts!” 19. Who is the greatest babysitter mentioned in the Bible? 33. What do donkeys send out near 9. If Mary had Jesus, and Jesus was David — he rocked Goliath to a very Christmas? a little lamb… deep sleep Does that mean Mary had a little Mule-tide greetings. lamb? 20. How do groups of angels greet 34. Did you hear about the 1-800 each other? service they have for atheists now? 10. What’s so funny about forbidden Halo, halo, halo! fruits? You dial the number and it rings and rings but nobody answers They create many jams. 21. Who was the greatest moneyman in the Bible? 35. Who was the smartest man in the 11. Why couldn’t Jonah trust the Noah. He was floating his stock while Bible? ocean? everyone else was in liquidation. He just knew there was something Abraham. He knew a Lot. ********** 12 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 Are you Ingredients: Blessed? 1/2 kg. rice flour 100 gms sugar Chitaps Melville X. D'Souza 1/2 coconut juice or milk 2 tsp. yeast or toddy There is this incident in the life of St. 1/4 kg. maida Blaise. While he was in prison, it is 2 eggs said, a woman brought to him a boy who was choking on a fish bone that Method: was stuck in his throat. The woman 1. Mix all the ingredients at night, except the coconut juice or milk. In must have been desperate, not know- the morning, add the coconut juice or milk so as to obtain a dripping ing what to do. St. Blaise said a bless- consistency. ing over the boy, and the boy spat out 2. Place a cast iron chitap pan on a slow flame. the fish bone. Surely, the woman must 3. Dip a chopped onion stuck to a fork in a bowl of oil and lightly grease have been overjoyed. She must have the chitap pan. feared the worst that could happen to 4. Spread the liquid mixture, a little at a time, in the pan and cover the the boy, probably a surgery and com- pan with a thali to retain the heat. plications. But instead, here was the 5. After a few minutes, the chitap is ready. boy cured by St. Blaise without sur- 6. Continue this process till all the batter is over. gery or medication. St. Blaise was a Tastes good with tea, chicken curry or with sorpotel. It can also be physician but he healed the boy with eaten plain. his blessing.

Do you have a sore throat? And you cannot speak without experiencing pain, or cannot eat or drink comfort- ably. Do you have something like a fish bone stuck in your throat? That's — Jubel and Shirley D'Cruz, terrible, very frightening. We would try Dombivili, Mumbai all sorts of stunts or home remedies in order to soothe our throat or to get the thorn or the bone to pass down throat? We have St. Blaise to bless the throat. And if all that wouldn't work The Jerusalem Code our throat and so, there we are on the what would you do? Alfred Hitchcock by Chhotebhai feast day of St. Blaise, standing before the famous film director says, "I have the priest getting our throat blessed. a perfect cure for a sore throat: cut The priest invokes God's blessings to it!" But of course, we wouldn't resort preserve us from every infection of the to such a drastic step. The physi- throat and other afflictions through the cian is there for you. He will heal you intercession of St. Blaise. And we go surely, you would be back to normal, back home feeling safe and Blessed. perhaps through surgery. And back That's it. But, What next? to your usual self. In the meanwhile though, do we feel we were missing What happens after our throat is out on something? We were unable to blessed, it gets cleaned of course. communicate with others. We have a Then why is it that even after our tongue but unable to speak with ease. throats are blessed, good words fail to Perhaps, that was the time we had be- gush out through our throat? Why do come good listeners, when we were we continue running down somebody unable to say anything? Katherine fair name, backbiting, spitting venom, Whitehorn a British journalist, says, "A hurling choicest abuses on others? good listener is not someone with That's something for introspection. If nothing to say. A good listener is a we are truly blessed, we need to good talker with a sore throat." guard the words that we speak or else St. Blaises' blessings would For your copy in Mumbai - Mangalore Do we need spiritual healing for our be in vain. Contact: Tel.: +91 9820485389 8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 13 Archbishop Filipe Neri urges to keep (Contd.. from p. 3) warning. Writing in La Croix Interna- Word of God close to our heart tional from the Vatican, Robert Mick- ens described Gomez’s letter as “an iron fist in a velvet glove”!

This is not surprising because, as Mickens says, the American bishops have been opposing Pope Francis’ pastoral reforms, and even used for- mer Nuncio Abp Vigano to defame and discredit Pope Francis through his 70 page open letter. In many ways I find that both Indian democ- racy and the Catholic Church here are far ahead of the US. Where the latter scores over us is in its fiercely independent media, a robust judi- ciary, and nonexistent bureaucracy.

Most Rev. Filipe Neri Ferrão, the President of the CCBI, releasing the book At Biden’s inauguration the Catholic “Celebrating the Word of God.” priest who led the invocation made a pointed reference to Pope Francis, Book Celebrating the Word of God a verse or two of the Bibleand allow it and in his inaugural address Biden Released to inspire us daily.This volume helps quoted St Augustine. This augurs us to realize and appreciate the place well for his presidency, to heal a frac- Panjim, Goa 27 January, 2021 (CCBI): of Word of God in our liturgy, mission tured post-Trump nation. Inciden- Archbishop Filipe Neri Ferrão, the and life as well as the significance of tally, Joseph (Biden’s actual name) President of the Conference of Cath- celebrating the Word of God on spe- means “the gatherer” in the original olic Bishops of India (CCBI) and the cial Sunday”. Hebrew. So he has his task cut out Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and for him, to gather together those who Daman, urged the faithful to keep The book brings together four Church have been scattered. Coincidentally, Word of God close to our heart on dai- documents on the Word of God. It in- Pope Francis has declared 2021 as ly basis. The Archbishop was releas- cludes two Apostolic Letters of Pope the year of St Joseph. ing the book “Celebrating the Word of Francis: (1) AperuitIllis, instituting the God” on Wednesday 27 January, 2021 celebration of the Word of God on a In conclusion I recall the words of at Archbishop’s House, Panjim, Goa. special Sunday of the Year and pub- the Prophet Hosea. “Those who sow lished on the 30 September 2019 (2) the wind, reap the whirlwind” (Hos Echoing what Pope Francishad spo- Scripturae Sacrae Affectus, published 8:7). This goes for all, be they poli- ken more than once, Archbishop Filipe on the 30 September 2020. (3) The ticians, farmers or religious heads. said “Let us make room in our lives for Roman Missal Lectionary Praenotan- Rather let us have the heart of Jesus the word of God. Let us read each day, da, which contains the essential cat- who, towards the end of his public echesis about Scripture in the Liturgy life lamented; “How often I wanted Wedding Invitation, Christening, and (4) Note of the Congregation for to gather your children together, as First Holy Communion, Mortu- Divine Worship and Discipline of the a hen gathers her chicks under her ary Cards & Religious Goods Sacraments for the celebration of the wings” (Mat 23:37). Contact: Sunday of the Word of God, published David & Company on the 17 December 2020. Jack of All Stall Rivendell House, 1st Floor, 650, “Celebrating the Word of God” is pub- Reliable House for J. S. S. Road, 2nd Dhobitalao lished in by the CCBI. For copies kind- Religious Goods Lane, Mumbai 400002 ly contact the CCBI General Secretar- Gloria Church Bldg., Tel.: 22019010 / 2205 7394 iat or call Mobile no. +91-9886730224. 263, Dr. Ambedkar Rd., 2206 0344 / 22079592 Byculla, Mumbai - 400027 Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara Email:[email protected] Deputy Secretary General, Tel.: 23725963, 23749358 Conference of Catholic www.davidcompany.com Estd: 1951 Prop. B. D'Souza

14 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 crowning of thorns. The judgement to Preparation For The Season Of Lent be crucified. The carrying of the cross. The nails piercing His hands and feet. The terrible pain while hanging from the cross. Seeing His mother suffering while she stood below the cross. His final act in commending his Spirit to the Father; throughout lent we should better understand how Christ was pre- pared to die for us , for our salvation and redemption.

When we meditate on His passion at On the 17th February is Ash the same, emotionally, and in relation- lent we honor Him. We grow stronger Wednesday. ships. in the power of the faith. During lent we make reparation for our sins and Over the years most people struggle Christ knows this, and He set up a ask God’s forgiveness. to faithfully recall the life of Christ and human plan to conquer sin, tempta- His presence among us. To meditate tion, rebuke, hate, anger and spiri- The season of lent must not be a on his divine mission to bring us salva- tual weakness. In His Passion we are short-term of penance, but a life-long tion, redemption and spiritual strength taught lessons of kindness, charity, and vibrant tempering of the spiritual we need a moment in time, and lent love, forgiveness and the overcoming nature of the soul. The season of lent gives us this opportunity. of fear. tempers the soul. The season of lent is a At the Last Supper, Jesus reality check. It cannot washed the feet of his apostles. compare with any other He gave us the miracle of the Please renew your human experience. Our Holy Eucharist. He observed the path to heavenly life is to Passover ritual seriously. Let us subscription if expired. share in Christ’s Passion. By Melvyn Brown at Lent take the Passion of Christ Mention your subscription seriously and carefully follow its no. while sending the From His walk to Jerusalem, His tri- moments of prayer, contrition and pen- renewal amount umphal entry into the Holy City, as its ance: The scourging at the pillar. The King of Peace, to His arrest in the gar- den, the infamous trial which followed, the agony, the crucifixation of Christ and His death, is to have a perfect un- derstanding of Christ’s passion. For all your Printing

In the tapestry of the gospels are many hidden messages for us as Christ needs under one roof our Redeemer goes through almost twelve hours of excruciating physical, Books, Folders, Magazines, mental and spiritual pain. His human tendencies remains to the end. Office stationary, Leaflets, Handouts, Reports, Cards, Presentations, Religious The human factor in Jesus serves as an exemplary becon for us. We too readings, Designing, Ad designs, should, should try and bear our cross, especially at lent and always. When Packaging boxes, Cartoons, you dedicate your life to human work Exhibition displays, in the true Christian formula, it enrich- es your faith. Product Marketing promotional innovations.

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8-14 February 2021 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 17 quipped a senior lady Mrs Tilly Peris, Mangalore's Heroic Grand Old who has known her for a long. Devotion to her beliefs is paramount, she always prayed earnestly and wished for every- Lady's 105th Milestone one to be happy and successful, she got stressed if she saw injustice and un- kindness. She said she used to have a - Ivan Saldanha-Shet. lifting the needy, marriage was always few ailments like mild vertigo, unsteady on the back burner and she remained sugar levels, but at present she seems ne good turn deserves another a spinster. She always recalls she did a to have outgrown all those and now - so for our dear readers who long spell of teaching senior classes at apart from the normal pains of old age know about a 105 year old hero popular Loretto School, in Calcutta now is far better than many much younger inO Canada - William Andrade, and our Kolkota; Ivy lived on Middleton Road to her. Reading, gardening, art work, city's own 99 year old Joseph ( Joe) Calcutta. Ivy also did a spell in Karachi embroidery were her forte and she was Gonsalves. Now here is a 105 year always very neat and tidy. For health old great grand spinster lady teacher she regularly ate fresh peeled garlic and , who is well past the 105th year mile- regularly took local ‘herbal teas', which stone - Ivy Mary Mathias of Falnir, in she grew in her own garden. Her's is the heart of old Mangaluru is a wonder a known family with longevity printed in lady born on December 9. 1915. This their genes or DNA it seems. great personality once explained "My It's amazing to hear about her health love for a long long time, are my roots and food; it nullifies the advanced opin- here in Kodial. The nature and coast- ions on the subject.....brace yourselves al folk of the region have changed a lot for shock! The accepted theory is veg- but still the original affection and care etables are the best for a healthy and are there," She added, " My one deep long life – but our centurion Ivy detests feeling whenever I was away from my vegetables. Her favorites were all kinds roots, was to return one day to the of sea foods/fish, meats, sweets, choc- land of my forefathers. I am always olates and to top it all Ice Cream. Junk happy that God has gifted me to live food is high on her ‘like list.’ Bananas here well all these many years". Eu- before Independence in 1947 which are her first love among fruits, her food sebius Piedade Mathias (1882-1948) was then part of British India. intake was good and she has just nor- was the father of Ivy Mary Mathias and An Agnesian : Older than the institution; mal food like most people, her 'family' is her mother Julia Mascarenhas of Ben- Dear Ivy, probably, is the only surviving caring. She is very fond of the old genre dur they married at Rosario Cathedral old student of St Agnes from that gen- country and western pop music...like in 1909. Ivy was the last of 7 children eration reaching this landmark. While Jim Reeves, Cliff Richard, Elvis Presly of whom three survived to be adults. St. Agnes, the first Catholic women's and such apart from old Konkani songs. Sometime in 1987, Lady Ivy moved to college in South India and second in the One can see old LP records, kept safely her present flat, near her original prop- country is entering its centenary, alum- in the showcase, unfortunately the play- erty between Milagres Church and nus Ivy Mary Mathias of Falnir in Man- er has succumbed to age! She keenly Highlands. She is more than fortunate galuru is a coveted 105 years landmark watches TV - music, soaps and news that though she has no one of her own in her life. Born before St Agnes Col- with attention and grasps all. Her favou- generation around, a caring family Mar- lege was established in 1921, she very rites are also religious channels; she is celine, Leena, Meera and Manoj, look joyfully recalls her primary schooling at very fond of watching religious ceremo- upon her as mother and grandmother St.Mary’s (Margil) that functioned under nies especially in Mangalore and Vati- and whom she has also stood by. In the Milagres church in those days. Then can. Corona Pandemic has had little 2015, visiting the Milagres church office she went on like most girls of her time impact as for a while she is in a safe and seeing the well preserved Baptis- to the famous and first women’s col- capsule at home. Ma'am Ivy is never mal register of year 1915 record, it was lege in South India, St Agnes at Bendur counted as an old foggy or invalid by pleasant to note that the details are where she graduated with a degree in any measure and at 105 is a pleasant confirmed therin. Arts and later was trained as a teacher person to meet and chat with. Decem- Teaching has been her first love and at St.Ann’s which is today a great old ber 9, 2020 has sure been a red letter forte, she first taught in Nagpur at ‘Prov- education hub, near Rosario Cathedral. day for this grand old lady and many idence’, it was the norm then that peo- of her admirers who saw her on Video ple went outside to make a life. This has Ivy's life and habits : Post Centenar- calls cheered. Ivy Mary Mathias in Man- contributed to Mangaloreans spreading ian, Ivy is truly a pleasant, easy person galuru is now a hundred and five but still far and wide and getting appreciated for with a great life behind her for sure... young in spirit and at her age collected their services wherever they have lived, she is a bit weaker than on her 100th and living a life of quiet awareness - their skills and goodness has served birthday as is understandable, but Co- may she live for long and be blessed in the community. With her mind on up- rona has not been anywhere near her", every way she needs always.

18 THE SECULAR CITIZEN 8-14 February 2021 tent and tone of the text his wide expe- THE JERUSALEM CODE rience as Convenor of the Indian Cath- By Chhotebhai olic Forum, former National President of the All India Catholic Union and for- A REVIEW by Ladislaus Louis D’Souza mer Director of the International Coun- cil of Catholic Men…. Salubriously, INDIAN CATHOLIC FORUM, Mega Mall, 3rd floor, Noronha Crossing, 63/2C THE JERUSALEM CODE, coming as The Mall, Kanpur 208001 Email: [email protected] – Mob: 09415130822 it does close on the heels of the Jeru- Pp 400 / INR 399 [US$ 10 – Euro 8] salema dance phenomenon that has seized the world by storm [with vary- ing, amazing presentations!], proves It was Arnold Henry Glasow, the sex, and a lot else. Drawing heav- in no uncertain terms that expressing famed American businessman and ily on Sacred Scripture [numberless divergent opinions on churchy matters humourist of the last century, who in no way means showing disre- said, “Happy is the person who spect for Church teachings. Au knows what to remember of the contraire, the contents inspire the past, what to enjoy in the present reader to constantly ask, “What is and what to plan for in the future.” the Spirit saying to the churches?” THE JERUSALEM CODE comes More importantly, what is the Spirit from an author who belongs to saying to me as a reader? the genre of writers who have a prophetic bent and know what to Now, lest you wonder as to the recall about the past and how to reason and significance of the title look at it, how analyse the present THE JERUSALEM CODE - the and, finally, to predict, plan and reviewer is not telling! After all, propose a future of desired reality. what’s better than a self-discovery! Indeed, the book has quite a few Jerusalem per se marks the final other surprises which the reader lap of the journey the Lord made would delight in discovering first- in his mission to redeem the likes hand! Of course, it is another mat- of those who killed the prophets of ter altogether that this unputdown- yore. A book that defies being fit able book by Chhotebhai has the neatly into any particular slot, THE backing of his four earlier titles JERUSALEM CODE is essentially (apart from a plethora of articles) the author’s journey into the Past, viz, The Trinity & Me (1978), Cracks an analysis of the Present and a in the Ceiling (1985), Beyond 2000 Futuristic vision of the church of – The Other Side (2000) and An tomorrow—a journey on which the Unfinished Symphony (2011). Get reader willy-nilly finds himself ac- ready for the kind of impact this companying the author. And what can references and quotes!] and on the book—probably the author’s magnum the reader expect to find on that jour- teachings Vatican II, besides an array opus so to say—is all set to leave in ney but an expression of the anguish of other sources, the contents of this its wake! of the laity, women in particular, about book constitute an honest attempt at where the Holy Catholic Church is, renewing the Church and reforming where she ought to have been by society. A man of deep convictions, News item, Articles, Stories, Opin- now and where she ought to be in the Chhotebhai is a writer who dares call ion, interview, Poems, etc. can be near future so to say. a spade just that, a spade! And how! sent by This is not to say that the contents, in Beating about the bush not being nature, are intimidating and demand WhatsApp: +91 9820485389 one of his traits, the author fearlessly acquiescence on the part of the read- Email: rakes up delicate issues which most er. Rather, the reader, his/her con- [email protected] authors would much rather just talk science stirred, is challenged to really [email protected] about in private and then shove under think hard on matters otherwise not [email protected] the carpet - like papal infallibility, cleri- given much thought to and ask ques- cal celibacy and priestly ordination of tions, seeking answers thereof. by Post women, family planning and abortion, The Secular Citizen divorce and remarriage, pre-marital The author brings to bear on the con- 99, Perin Nariman Street, 1st Floor, Fort, Mumbai 400001

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