Goa’s Rich History on Display: A Tribute to St Francis Xavier

On a vibrant afternoon of December 18, 2024, history, culture, and art shall converge at a grand event organized by the Goa Heritage Action Group (GHAG), as part of its silver jubilee celebrations, dedicated to the life and legacy of St Francis Xavier. The event, will be hosted at Sadhana Dell 'Arte, a cultural space celebrating diversity, which is located in Merçes, Panjim, Goa. It will be a blend of historical exploration, artistic display, and literary achievement exemplified through a book release.

The event shall kick off at 3:30 pm, with a captivating display of various souvenirs, stamps, and statues of St Francis Xavier, presented by heritage enthusiasts, Russell Barreto and Frazer Andrade. These artifacts not only celebrate the religious and cultural significance of the saint but also showcase the skillful artistry that has kept his legacy alive through the years. The exhibition will offer a rare opportunity to view some unique pieces that captured moments in history, evoking both admiration and reflection.

Simultaneously, another section of the exhibition will feature a remarkable collection of artworks inspired by St Francis Xavier and the historic region of Old Goa. Various artists will be presenting their works, each piece offering a distinctive perspective on the saint’s influence and the rich history of Goa. These artworks, which will also be available for sale, shall provide visitors with a chance to take a piece of Goa’s cultural heritage home.

- Advertisement -

Add as preferred source on Google

If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.

The event shall see a special moment when Chief Guest Dr Ferdino Rebello will arrive to participate in the occasion. Dr Justice Ferdino Rebello, was the former Chief Justice at the High Court of Judicature of Allahabad. He will be escorted by Russell Barreto and Frazer Andrade, through the exhibits, where they shall offer a detailed explanation of the objects on display. Adv Rebello’s presence will indeed add a distinguished touch to the gathering, emphasizing the importance of preserving Goa’s cultural history.

The highlight of the evening will be a release of the book “Stories in Silver – St. Francis Xavier”, authored by Pantaleão Fernandes a noted author and photographer from South Goa, which will happen from 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm. His new book, ‘Stories in Silver’ focusses on the silver casket of St Francis Xavier and the 32 intricate silver plates adorning it. Although the casket is exquisite, its beauty is difficult to fully appreciate in the subdued lighting of its current location. However, with the release of Pantaleão Fernandes’s new book, this silver masterpiece will indeed attract a wider audience, allowing more individuals to admire the splendor of the intricately crafted plates that adorn it. The book, which delves into the life and legacy of the saint, will be unveiled by Dr Ferdino Rebello. The release ceremony will truly be a moment of pride for the community, as the book offers a new dimension to understanding the silver casket housing the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier.

Share This Article