BookReview: Thosewere the days, my friend
Belgão: Goan Memories from the ‘Centre of theUniverse’, (239 pages, Goa 1556, Rs 500) is anostalgic collection of articles that captures the culture, customs andlifestyle of those lucky enough to be born, raised or lived -- for however longor short a period of time -- in that sleepy hamlet of Belgão. The book is written by a variety of peoplefrom different walks of life. These include at least two active nonagenarians,a few retired civil servants and teachers, a couple of journalists and anoccasional homemaker. What they all have in common is a fascination with andfor Belgão and its people that cannot be fathomed by those who didn’t livethere or experience the simple joys of the community. The book includes graphic descriptions ofhomes and streets, the humble modes of transport (dumney and tonga) before theadvent of auto rickshaws, the classroom antics and daring exploits -- which intoday’s overprotective society would have had many parents guilty of negligenceand irresponsibility -- and the innocent pleasure of spending one's eveningchatting to friends at 'Durgah' or enjoying a glass of sugarcane juice at 'PopInn'. It also includes acknowledgement and praiseof stalwarts of the Belgão community. Rev Fr Eddie Menezes SJ, was one such, whowas loved and respected not just by the students of St Paul’s but by thecommunity at large. 'Remembering Dad' written by his daughters is a tribute to MajorGeneral Eustace Fernandez who made the ultimate sacrifice of having lost hislife in the service of his country. He has been honoured by having the roadthat runs in front of Fatima Cathedral named after him. Since the book is about the Goan communitythere are inevitable descriptions of the train or bus trip to and from Goa,tales of growing up and coming of age in Belgão, and the two main schools thathelped shape the philosophy and values of the community. In the words of one of the writers, Belgãois a “Time Machine" which engulfs and preserves the memories of thosegolden days that have been etched in our minds and resurface from time to timebringing much joy. For me, it was a walk down memory lane. Ienjoyed it and so will you. - Loretta Blake Loretta Blake nee Pereira is a retired English teacher who lives inMelbourne, Australia. She was born and raised in Belgão and knows, or knows of,the people and situations described in the book. Yahoo Mail – Email Simplified
