Dears, A unique exhibition of more than 500 crosses of different shapes and sizes will be on show at Fundacao Oriente , near Dr.Bhandare's Hospital, fontainhas-Panjim, from 12 to 20 October, 2006, between 10 A.M. and 7 P.M. everyday. The exhibition entitled THE CROSS CODE is organized by well known artist Maendra Alvaresof BIGFOOT and ANCESTRAL GOA fame at Loutolim, about 30 kilometres south of Panjim. Normally exhibeited at "Casa Araujo Alvares", near Big Foot, this collection of Mr. Maendra Jocelino Araujo Alvares is from across the globe and the seven seas. He has conducted in-depth research study on the symbol of the Cross, and has categorized them in 70 classifications. The ten day long exhibition displays a wide range of crosses of varied shapes, sizes and material. It has been an attempt to educate the people about different crosses that were regarded as symbols from the ancient times. Maendra . Alvares has also a collection of about 450 idols of Lord Ganesha at his house.
"This will educate the people of Goa to see so many crosses belonging to different parts of the world at one place," said Goa Governor S.C. Jamir while inaugurating the exhibition on Saturday the 24th of Sept.at Loutolim. Mr. Jamir, a devout Baptist, also explained the meaning of the cross according to Romans and the Greeks philosophy during the period of Jesus. He said it is probable that the Christ was crucified on a T- shaped cross.The minister of art & culture Mr. Digambar Kamat who was also present for the function praised Maendra for the rare collection of crosses. The collection includes Greek Crosses, Egyptian, Latin showing the diffrent influences. Crosses used by Americians Indians and other tribes that are named as the Seasons cross are also exhibited. A Collection of crosses from Africa has also been showcased. They are marvelous pieces of art carved in the wood and in the form of human figures. Other unique crosses that are displayed are St. Peters cross, the Gamma Cross, the Cresent Cross, the Chovoie Cross, the Pall or Forked Cross, and many more. There is even the cross shaped like the Swastika, a very Indian symbol that is also found in Europe. A few crosses embedded with diamonds and precious stones are also exhibited. The Holding Cross is not decorative or ornamental, it is a true reminder of the harsh wood of the cross of Jesus. The cross beam is deliberately uneven in order to fit between your fingers more comfortably than a correctly shaped cross would do. Simply to hold a cross silently is in itself a prayer.This collection can actually be viewed not as a search for religious belief but for its symbolism. Fr. Savio Rodrigues said that the cross, as we know it, today, is a Universal Symbol and has been used right from the Indian sub-continent to the new-world America by the Navaho Indians. He opines that most cultures have incorporated the cross into their own basic beliefs. Fr. Savio adds that, the symbol has never been usurped, but it has accepted and respected all cultures in its own development and growth. . Viva Goa. Miguel Viva Goa.Say it with feni. MIGUEL BRAGANZA, Mhapsa Horticulturist/ Editor _______________________________________________ Goanet mailing list [email protected] http://lists.goanet.org/listinfo.cgi/goanet-goanet.org
