Team Herald
PANJIM: The Golden Bell in Se Cathedral Church at Old Goa, which was not functioning for the last 18 months, was temporarily repaired by the parishioners on Tuesday.
According to one of the parishioners Adv Xavier Rodrigues, the Golden Bell had remained inoperative for a considerable period of approximately 18 months. It was noticed after the demise of Pope Francis, when the traditional bell ringing to mourn the demise of the Head of the Catholic Church did not take place after the circular requiring all the churches and chapels to do so.
Adv Rodrigues said that the Golden Bell at Se Cathedral is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Despite its historical significance and cultural importance, the Golden Bell had remained inoperative for the last 18 months. The bell was also not functioning during the Exposition of the relics of St Francis Xavier held last year even after a reminder letter was forwarded to the office by Se Cathedral parish priest Fr Rosario Oliveira.
The bell’s silence not only affected the aesthetic experience of visiting the Cathedral but also raised concerns about the preservation and maintenance of the national monuments, Adv Rodrigues said, urging the authorities to take necessary steps to restore the Golden Bell to its former glory.
When contacted, ASI, Goa Circle conservation archaeologist Reddy said that the representation from Adv Xavier Rodrigues was received on Tuesday and estimates will have to be prepared to repair it.
ASI Assistant Superintending Archaeologist Dr Kishore Raghubans said that he was unaware of it and assured to look into the matter.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday late evening a group of parishioners temporarily reinstalled the bell clapper.
The Golden Bell of Se Cathedral, Old Goa, is one of the most iconic and historic landmarks in the State. The Golden Bell was installed in the Se Cathedral in the early 17th century, during the reign of the Portuguese Viceroy D Jerónimo de Azevedo (1612-1617). The bell was cast in 1597 by the Portuguese, and it is believed to have been brought to Goa from Portugal.
The Golden Bell is a masterpiece of Portuguese architecture and design. Weighing over 2,000 kg, the bell is adorned with intricate engravings and ornaments, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the time. The bell's surface is inscribed with the following words:
The Golden Bell has played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of Goa throughout its history. The bell has been rung on numerous occasions to mark important events, including the visit of Pope Paul VI in 1964; the canonization of St Francis Xavier in 1622 and the arrival of the relics of St Francis Xavier in Goa in 1624.
Over the years, the Golden Bell has undergone several restoration and conservation efforts to preserve its integrity and ensure its continued functioning.
In the 19th century, the bell was restored by the Portuguese, who added a new clapper and rehung the bell.