[Goanet] Patriotism for Dummies (O Heraldo, 7/8/2020)
https://www.heraldgoa.in/Edit/Opinions/Patriotism-for-Dummies/192659 The *tiranga* in this 1955 photograph isn’t quite visible, but it flew boldly in the hearts and minds of all four men who are beaming with pride just below. Second from left is Morarji Desai, the doughty freedom fighter and Chief Minister of Bombay State, which – prior to division in 1960 - spanned across most of present-day Maharashtra plus Gujarat and parts of what is now Karnataka. At his right elbow is William Xavier Mascarenhas of Porvorim and early-20th-century Poona (now Pune), the chief engineer of the state, who had just delivered up the Sachivalaya - now called Mantralaya - where they are all standing on the roof, after hoisting its flag for the very first time. Mascarenhas was my maternal grandfather, and so this Sunday column begins unusually personally. That is because the topic is patriotism, and I’m intimately aware how he – and indeed the entire generation of nation-builders to which he belonged – never believed in public chest-thumping about their patriotic sentiments. Thus, over long decades of dedicated service to India, during which he also built the National Defense Academy in Khadakwasla and served as the Chairman of the first Planning Board for his beloved homeland of Goa, my grandfather never wavered from Mahatma Gandhi’s dictum: “my patriotism is not an exclusive thing. It is all embracing and I should reject that patriotism which sought to mount upon the distress or the exploitation of others.” Gandhi was perfectly explicit in *Young India*: “My mission is not merely brotherhood of Indian humanity. My mission is not merely freedom of India, though today it undoubtedly engrosses practically the whole of my life and the whole of my time. But through realization of freedom of India I hope to realize and carry on the mission of brotherhood of man. The conception of my patriotism is nothing if it is not always, in every case without exception, consistent with the broadest good of humanity at large. I want to realize brotherhood or identity not merely with the beings called human, but I want to realize identity with all life, even with such beings as crawl on earth. I want, if I don't give you a shock, to realize identity with even the crawling things upon earth, because we claim common descent from the same God, and that being so, all life in whatever form it appears must be essentially one.” Those visionary words were written almost 100 years ago in 1929. Now, on the 75th anniversary of “freedom at midnight”, the original nation-builders inheritance is the *Har Ghar Tiranga* campaign, described at amritmahotsav.nic.in as “under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to encourage people to bring the Tiranga home and to hoist it to mark the 75th year of India’s independence. Our relationship with the flag has always been more formal and institutional than personal. Bringing the flag home collectively as a nation in the 75th year of independence thus becomes symbolic of not only an act of personal connection to the Tiranga but also an embodiment of our commitment to nation-building. The idea behind the initiative is to invoke the feeling of patriotism in the hearts of the people and to promote awareness about the Indian National Flag.” It's not too difficult to figure out what “the father of the nation” would think of this novel twist on “nation-building” (where Uttar Pradesh alone has pledged to spend an astonishing 40 crore rupees on flags), especially considering it has been accompanied by an unconscionable dilution of the original code to allow polyester flags instead of the previously mandated – and Gandhi’s deeply cherished – khadi. But far more troubling still is the imposition of cheap jingoism in the guise of patriotism, and the very high likelihood it will be weaponized to violence. It's true that hasn’t happened yet – let’s wait until after the 15th to breathe easy – but it’s already quite breath-taking to watch every villainous rogue in public office (not to mention all other fields) race to flaunt the sacred tricolour on social media, as though it’s going to absolve them of their crimes. They’re a perfect illustration of why the great 18th century intellectual Samuel Johnson once wrote in disgust: “Patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel.” The last time this pot was stirred was the 2016 Supreme Court order to play the national anthem in all cinemas before each screening “for the love of the motherland”. Even then, Justice Chandrachud pointed out the glaring inconsistencies: “You don’t have to stand up at a cinema hall to be perceived as patriotic. [Besides] the relevant Article 51A of the constitution also requires citizens to develop scientific temper, humanism, spirit of enquiry – are we [the Supreme Court] supposed to enforce all this? Next thing will be that people should not wear t-shirts and shorts to movies because it will amount to disrespect to the National Anthem. Where do we stop
[Goanet] Patriotism for Scoundrels (original title), Times of India 3/2/2018
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/the-other-face-of-patriotism/articleshow/62761944.cms Way back in 1775, the Scottish diarist and biographer James Boswell tells us the prominent English litterateur Samuel Johnson uttered these penetrating words, “patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.” Those remarks are presented without context, but in other places in Boswell’s epochal “The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL D” it becomes amply clear both men are referring to manipulative sloganeering. Boswell records Johnson warning about politicians “disseminating discontent”, and saying “to instigate the populace with rage beyond the provocation is to suspend public happiness, if not to destroy it. He is no lover of his country that unnecessarily disturbs its peace.” Fast forward to 2018 where the peace in India is permanently disturbed, with controversies cynically manufactured to distract the masses from tawdry everyday reality of disastrous misgovernance. Just a few days ago, the findings of the global Environmental Performance Index released at the World Economic Forum in Davos listed India an incredibly bad fourth-worst in the world across ten broad categories including air and water quality, deforestation and sanitation. But instead of headlines about ranking 177th out of 180 countries in this vital area, the media was dominated by the Shri Rajput Karni Sena and its absurdly misguided protests about a Bollywood film’s supposed threats to its caste pride. Map the violence, and you can see those places align precisely with those parts of the country suffering the most at this precise juncture in history. Across much of that “cow belt”, unemployment is rising as the economy falters. Climate change has devastated the ability to support agriculture. A grotesquely skewed sex ratio has resulted in millions of “missing women”, greatly exacerbating social tensions. In such a cauldron of disaffection, incendiary appeals to the mob become inevitable political tactics. But even then you still can’t fool all the people all the time, as proven earlier this week in Ajmer, Alwar and Mandalgarh in Rajasthan, where voters rather remarkably reversed the national trend to reject politics of communal division. Bring the focus to Goa, which is so blessed with every natural advantage, including a quality of life and cultural harmony which is the envy of the rest of the world. But even here, the contemporary political cadre constantly tries its luck with the intolerance card. The latest and example is that of speaker of the Legislative Assembly Pramod Sawant, who recently hectored a bemused crowd about “some Goans who still say Viva Portugal”. A full 57 years after the Indian triranga was first officially raised in India’s smallest state, this 45-year-old politician is running scared from the long-departed colonial bogeyman. If Sawant thought he could score easy points with these cheap tactics, he was quickly proven wrong by a torrent of ridicule. On Facebook, the young Panjim resident Rohan Govenkar echoed a consensus when he wrote, “There are two kinds of nationalists in the country. (1) Those who feel that Corruption, Poverty, Malnutrition, Bad Healthcare services, inferior educational standards and filth are the biggest threats to the rise of India. (2) Those who feel that someone chanting slogans of ‘Viva Portugal/ supporting Portugal for a football match are the biggest threat to the rise of India. What kind of nationalist are you?” The sheer disgracefulness of Sawant’s comments stands out especially because of the bonhomie and mutual regard between Narendra Modi and Antonio Costa, as the prime ministers of India and Portugal have accelerated to the warmest ties between any European and Asian country. In the span of just six months last year, they hosted each other. Costa’s rapturous reception in Goa – the land of his forefathers – was matched in fervour by Modi’s welcome in Lisbon, where he was fed Gujarati specialities by the large and successful diaspora community from his state. Narendra Modi has nothing b ut good wishes, and great plans regarding India’s relationship with Portugal, which he describes as “deep historical connections and strong economic and people to people ties” and “strong partners in the international arena.” What is more, with an overseas citizen of India at the helm of Portugal, Modi pragmatically realizes there is no contradiction at all in being an enthusiastic well-wisher of both great countries. This - above all else - is the lesson for Pramod Sawant. In 2018, it is not just “some Goans” but the prime minister and the rest of India that are all joining in to chorus together, “Viva Portugal.”
[Goanet] Patriotism forr Dummies, Again (Times of India, 28/1/2017)
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/patriotism-for-dummies-again/articleshow/56820823.cms Some months ago, both social and print media became galvanized by my report in these pages about the shocking assault on poet and disability activist Salil Chaturvedi at the Panaji multiplex. The gentle Chorao resident has a spinal injury, and needs to be lifted from his wheelchair into a seat. On the day he went to watch Rajnikanth's latest, he was beaten and abused by an officious young couple, because he could not stand during the national anthem. Chaturvedi was left badly shaken, and scared to go back to the movies. News of the cowardly attack spread worldwide, a perfect example of patriotism gone mad. On her show, Barkha Dutt pointed out Chaturvedi is the brother and son of military servicemen, and represented the country at the Australian Open. The victim himself said, "I just don't understand why it seems impossible for so many people to express patriotism in a non-aggressive manner...even if I could stand up during the national anthem, I would rather not, simply because I am being forced to do so. Is this why we fought the colonialists? Did we get our freedom only to become sheep, and that too led by the most sinister, manipulative brutes among us? I will not participate in this sham." In the incident's aftermath, it became apparent there wasn't any legal requirement for playing the anthem before movies. The practice prevailed when the Indian army fought to liberate Bangladesh, but was abandoned in 1975. The only state with a relevant law was Maharashtra. Amidst the fallout of the Chaturvedi case, all that changed last November with an astonishingly narrow-minded (and probably unconstitutional) Supreme Court ruling that all movie theatres across the country must play the anthem, and all patrons stand "to instill committed patriotism and nationalism". It's obviously both preposterous and dangerous to try to legislate patriotism or nationalism. But, beyond farce, the Union home ministry then issued a ridiculous laundry list of minutiae to torment individuals with disabilities who venture to the movies. "Wheelchair users...shall position himself/herself to the extent of maximum attentiveness and alertness" and "if on crutch, he/she shall become stable (non-mobile) to the extent of maximum alertness". Also, "while the person with mild intellectual disability without associated conditions can be trained to understand and respect the National Anthem, the same may not hold good in other cases". Chaturvedi says, "It's quite apparent these guidelines have been penned by someone who is completely unsensitized to disability, hasn't spent time with a disabled person, and what's worse, might even be a little hostile towards disabled persons. In the disability movement we have a catchphrase: "nothing about us, without us". This means that disabled persons, or organizations representing us, should be consulted before deciding on things that affect us. The poorly worded order borders on absurdity and has a tinge of viciousness." Oscar Wilde warned "patriotism is the virtue of the vicious." And Chaturvedi points out, "At places the guidelines are downright offensive...they mention that people with epilepsy and psychiatric illness are exempt, because they may "flap" their hands, "scream or shout or make abnormal body movements". Really? Is this how the Ministry of Home Affairs imagines its citizens with epilepsy? And does this mean that such persons need to carry their medical records to prove they have the illness? It is disturbing to see this understanding of disabilities, and use of language, is coming from the bureaucracy of a nation that hopes to lead the world in the coming years." It is illustrative of the state of affairs in India that this legislation emerged because a disabled man was disgracefully battered, but the government targets him (and other disabled) instead of addressing the crime. Chaturvedi is rightly upset, "The guideline still doesn't take care of the original issue raised when I was assaulted. How will you keep disabled people safe from overzealous nationalists in the cinema hall? This guideline doesn't instruct cinema halls to display relevant slides discouraging people from taking the law in their own hands. During the incident, I was not on my wheelchair. I was carried to my seat, and during the national anthem I was hit even though I was at 'maximum alertness' and fully attentive. How does this guideline change anything for me?" Those are highly cogent points. Dickens wrote in 'Oliver Twist', sometimes "the law is an ass, an idiot." But what possible recourse is there when those entrusted with carrying out the law are even worse, to the point of inhumane brutality? Here it is relevant to note that Chaturvedi's assailants were caught on camera, and immediately recognized. The Panaji multiplex administration has known their identity for months, but didn't take action because the
[Goanet] Patriotism for Dummies (Times of India, 18/10/2016)
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Patriotism-for-Dummies/articleshow/54905762.cms Writer and disability activist, Chorao-based Salil Chaturvedi is one of the gentlest souls you could ever encounter. He was part of the original cast of the beloved children’s television programme ‘Galli Galli Sim Sim’ (the Indian version of Sesame Street). He compiled the first Konkani audiobook specifically for the blind, and (along with Goa Bird Conservation Network) likes to take blind children bird-watching. His best-known poem (described by the great novelist Amitav Ghosh as “a favourite” is pure pleasurable whimsy. Its subject is a tree frog. Like almost every Indian, Chaturvedi loves going to the movies. Though Panaji’s multiplex halls remain inaccessible to wheelchair users, helpful ushers carry him to a decent seat. But those fun visits seem over forever now. When the peaceful poet settled in to watch Rajnikanth’s latest blockbuster, he was viciously assaulted from behind during the national anthem. The patriotic husband-and-wife duo standing – and ostentatiously singing – in the aisle above took offence that the spinal injury victim could not rise to his feet to parade similarly belligerent nationalism. So the man hit, and the woman shouted, “why can’t he get up?!” Chaturvedi is the son of a career military officer, but he’s still not the kind to lash back with violence. Though extremely shaken – and physically hurt - by the unprovoked attack, he simply turned around after the anthem, and asked, “why don’t you just relax? Why do you have to get into people’s faces? You don’t know the story here. You will never know”. The bellicose couple again shouted at him about standing up during the anthem, then slowly realized their error. No doubt fearing a police case, they slunk out and left. The aftermath of this ugly, absurd incident is that Chaturvedi has not gone back to the movies. “I can’t go,” he says, “I’m afraid someone will hit me even harder, and worsen my spinal injury. I just don’t understand why it seems impossible for so many people to express patriotism in a non-aggressive manner.” Thinking hard in the aftermath of the cowardly blow, he says, “I now believe that even if I could stand up during the national anthem, I would rather not, simply because I am being forced to do so. My father is an Air Force veteran. I represented the nation in wheelchair tennis at the Australian Open. Look at my life choices! Who are you to judge how much I love India?” Crude, virulent jingoism has spread widely in India due to a combination of factors: deeply cynical politicians; a baying television media that routinely defaults to craven or hysterical; but also very real anxieties stirred up by unprecedented social churn and runaway globalization. The end result is, just like the USA after the 2001 World Trade Centre attacks, it has recently become a requirement for Indians to clamorously declare fealty and allegiance to a highly dubious concept of nationalism, which very few people actually believe in. Here it should be noted George W Bush, of “with us, or against us” fame, is the most disgraced US president in modern history, his ostensibly patriotic preening thoroughly repudiated. The Chaturvedi outrage in Panaji is usefully contrasted to what is happening in the USA after quarterback (the critical position in American Football, akin to strikers in soccer) Colin Kaepernick of the San Francisco 49ers began to protest the national anthem by kneeling when it is performed before games. He explained, “I am not going to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people, and people of colour. To me this is bigger than football.” Soon after he began this silent, solitary protest, Kaepernick’s team supported his right to dissent. Then many US military veterans did the same. The women’s professional soccer player, Megan Rapinoe, began to “take a knee,” followed by the entire Indiana Fever team of the WNBA. Currently, Kaepernick’s replica uniform is the highest seller in the league’s official shop, and a fairly complex nationwide national conversation is under way about the underlying causes of his actions. President Obama said, “I don’t doubt his sincerity. I think he cares about some real, legitimate issues that have to be talked about.” Now imagine a cricket player in India attempting any similar protest, for any of the myriad horrific and systemic injustices that both state and society perpetuate. Consider how Goa’s true pride, defence minister Manohar Parrikar would react, considering he termed the chants of mere students “not freedom of speech, but treachery”, and told army veterans their legitimate protests were “unlike a soldier”. When Bollywood star Aamir Khan made some mild, thoughtful comments about the rise of intolerance in India leading to “a sense of insecurity” for his family, Parrikar threatened, “if anyone speaks like this, he has to be taught a lesson of his life.” Salil Chaturvedi has
[Goanet] Patriotism!
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting a 12-year-old lad, who had dropped in at my Monginis outlet along with his older cousin brother. After their order was completed, the lad asked me: “Uncle, are you from Goa?” I replied: “Yes, I am from Goa; I am a Goan.” His next question was: “How long have you been in Goa?” I replied: “Since birth.” He then asked me: “Uncle, are you an Indian?” I replied: “Yes, I am an Indian.” His next question was: “Uncle, are you proud to be an Indian?” I replied: “Surely, I am proud to be an Indian.” He replied with a smile on his face: “Uncle, I am very proud to be an Indian.” I then asked him: “From which state do you hail.” He answered: “I come from Chandigarh!” Finally, I said to him: “Xabas beta! Blessed are your parents who taught you patriotism! He replied: “Thank you, uncle.” Obviously, this lad’s parents have instilled a sense of patriotism in him, which is vital if we want our children to be good citizens of India. How many of us inculcate patriotism in our children? Moi-mogan, Domnic Fernandes Anjuna, Goa Mob: 9420979201
Re: [Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION:
My dear Valmiky, Read your most informative and relevantly provocative opus with undiluted interest...joy; fine work that has been long overdue. Came across two faulted names that you can set aright in the nest printing: Both dealing with the Gracias-Monteiro clan of Loutulim. Dr. Baronio's son, Lino, Inocencios and Agustinho´sibbling was Fr. Francisco, not Antonio. He, among them taught me how to swim in the wadi in Angdi, now sadly filled to the brim with shit and silt. And, army doctor Captain Renato was Gracias, not Monteiro, father to Caetano, Oscar, Doreen, Luiza now in Canada...Portugal. Renato's sister, professora Laura was my father' godchild. The two Gracias families Will reperuse with greater acuity if I can spot any other need of emendation. I am writing this tou on open net because it may set our fellow bretheren on net to spot any other possible lapses. SEMPRE VOSSO AFCT, ALFRED From: valmi...@gmail.com To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Date: Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:18:49 +0530 Subject: [Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION: --- http://www.GOANET.org --- Book Release: Goanetter Valmiki Faleiro's Patriotism in Action Dec 18, 2010 (Sat) at 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra, Benaulim, Goa Copies available at: Hotel Mandovi or Broadway (Panjim), OIB (Mapusa), Sainik Co-Op (Porvorim), Literati (Calangute), David Co, Confidante (Margao) David Co Mumbai, Mumbai Catholic Gymkhana; Manney's and Popular (Pune), Narayan (Bangalore), Ritana Books (Delhi). Online: http://goa1556.notlong.com --- Interested Goanetters may like to check this weblink: http://www.navhindtimes.in/iwatch/unsung-heroes-goa
[Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION: Goans in India ’s Defence Services
Goanetters annual year-end meet is on Dec 27, 2010 (Monday) from 4-6 pm at Institute Piedade (near Hotel Mandovi, opp Bread More) in Panjim. Do come along. RSVP via SMS 9822122436, f...@goa-india.org or 2409490 (after 2 pm). * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * GULF-GOANS e-NEWSLETTER (since 1994)® www.yahoogroups.com/group/gulf-goans/ www.goa-world.com http://www.goa-world.com/goa/credit%5Ccredit.htm Tumcam Maie-mogacho ieukar. Enjoy Life - This is not a rehearsal! Konkani uloi, boroi, vach ani samball - sodankal. Hich Goenchi osmitai ani amchem khalxelponn. Goenchi amchi Konkani bhas! Ekvottachem saddon Goenkaranchem. Stay tuned to Gulf Goans e-Newsletter - everyday someone, somewhere learns a little. http://goaclips.blogspot.com/2010/12/patriotism-in-action.html PATRIOTISM IN ACTION: Goans in India’s Defence Services By Valmiki Faleiro With Foreword by Gen SF Rodrigues, PVSM, VSM, ADC (retd), former Chief of Army Staff and Governor of Punjab Administrator-Chandigarh. Available at GOA: Literati (2277740), Other India (2263306), Broadway (6647038), Mandovi (2427904), Noel D’Silva Associates (9823120454 / 9096781714), Confidant / Golden Heart Emp (2732450), David Co (2730326), Vardaan (9527463684) SERV / RETD Def Offrs in Goa: O/o Sainik Co-op Hse Bldg Sty, Def Col, Porvorim (2417288) MUMBAI: David Co (22019010) PUNE: Manney’s (26131683), Popular (25678327) BENGALURU: Narayan (22865800) DELHI: Ritana (24617278) ONLINE (worldwide delivery): http://www.ritanabooks.com, http://goa1556.goa-india.org [Seen in the above photo are: (from L to R): Dr Francisco C Colaco, Dr Dhillon Dessai, Col (retd) John AA D'Souza, Daisy Faleiro, Livia de Abreu Noronha, Dr Savia Viegas, Brig (retd) Ian de Costa, Cmde (retd) Gilbert Menezes, Maj (retd) Venugopal Nair, Secretary-Goa Rajya Sainik Board (partly seen)]. Goa Chitra an ethnographical museum situated in Benaulim, as part of their social activities recently launched their, “Thought Café.” That followed the launch of a book ‘Patriotism in Action’ by Valmiki Faleiro. Contrary to public perceptions, Goa contributed a large number of senior officers to the Indian armed forces, says a new book on the subject. Faleiro’s ‘Patriotism in Action’ lists over 350 persons of Goan origin, who have donned uniform in the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. There are many others whose names are yet to be recorded, says the author. This new book was released by Ms Liva de Abreu Noronha at a well-attended function with family, friends, literary enthusiast and well wishers. Col (Retd) John A A D’Souza regretted the declining number of defense recruits in Goa in recent times. He said there were misunderstandings over the job, and youngsters needed more information on competitive Central government jobs too. In an emotional speech, writer and scholar Dr Savia Viegas stressed the importance of local histories which project the diverse aspects of Goan achievement, before this is all forgotten and disbelieved. Dr Dhillon Dessai said the book made clear about the Catholic contribution to the armed forces from Goa, and praised the author— a former journalist and ex-civic chief of Margao— for taking on this task. Another speaker at the event, Dr Francisco Colaco said the achievements listed in the book showed the bravery of the Goan. He cited stories of valour. Faleiro’s book offers lists of officers killed in action, and those from Goa decorated with gallantry awards. There is also a listing of Goan officers who took part in ‘Operation Vijay’, the action which ended Portuguese rule in Goa, five decades ago. Likewise, there is a list of Goan officers who took part in wars. In a series of articles, the book touches on Goan aviators, and the Goan “fascination for adventure”. Faleiro says that many Goan officers, after retiring, have taken to doing works of compassion and charity. His detailed listing contains literally hundreds of names and dozens of events, which throws new light on a subject little was earlier known about. Former Indian Army chief General, Sunith Rodrigues appreciated the author whom, he said, had “embarked on an ambitious task”. The hardbound book, priced at Rs 600, is available in major bookshops around Goa and outside. The author, Valmiki Faleiro, can be contacted via email: valmikif at gmail.com [Valmiki Faleiro is a Margao based businessman who earlier worked as Staff Reporter for the erstwhile WEST COAST TIMES and later as Goa Correspondent with Mumbai's FREE PRESS JOURNAL Group, and the INDIAN EXPRESS newspaper. He served as the President of the Margao Municipality from 1985 to 1987. He has indicated that he hopes to return to full-time writing, with a special interest on certain aspects of Goan history. http://www.colaco.net/1/ValmikiFaleiro.htm]
[Goanet] Patriotism in action
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- Book Release: Goanetter Valmiki Faleiro's Patriotism in Action Dec 18, 2010 (Sat) at 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra, Benaulim, Goa Copies available at: Hotel Mandovi or Broadway (Panjim), OIB (Mapusa), Sainik Co-Op (Porvorim), Literati (Calangute), David Co, Confidante (Margao) David Co Mumbai, Mumbai Catholic Gymkhana; Manney's and Popular (Pune), Narayan (Bangalore), Ritana Books (Delhi). Online: http://goa1556.notlong.com --- The chappies below if Goans were traitors (at least mention is made of their families) with links to Goa). Their actions in 61 together wit the freedom fightes has led to the utter destruction of Goa, but they also endangered the lives of Goans in that period. I have recently seen a video which showed the destruction of Goan houses during the invasion after the bombings. Unfortunately these bad events are never recounted. We were never part of India before 61. Many of the below mentioned are dead. They must be now turning in their graves to see the state of Goa. Like the writer of the pansy book and along with the freedom fighters, they were all naive, and acting in a stupid and gullible way without knowing the consequences that would befall upon Goa. The chaps below mentioned were not defending anything. The Portuguese and Goans were not attacking or hurting any Indian people. Goa was a very, very peaceful place even all the Camotim's had a peaceful and secure life. Unlike today when sometimes and many times Goan can not even allowed to eat in restaurants in their own land. Can any body in this list believe that? Writing a book on the actions of traitors is like shooting ourselves in the head. Maybe if all of us committed sati would be better! (Or did Albuquerque ban sati?) BC 1. Erlic Wilmot Pinto 2. Trevor Joseph Fernandes, 3. Louis Fonseca 4. Paul Baylon Fernandes 5. Joseph G Rodrigues . 6. Cezar PF Lobo . 7. Vishwanath Balakrishna Sawardekar 8. John Eric Gomes 9. Avelino Jose Luis de Figueiredo Melo
[Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION:
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http://www.GOANET.org
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Book Release: Goanetter Valmiki Faleiro's Patriotism in Action
Dec 18, 2010 (Sat) at 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra, Benaulim, Goa
Copies available at: Hotel Mandovi or Broadway (Panjim), OIB (Mapusa),
Sainik Co-Op (Porvorim), Literati (Calangute), David Co, Confidante
(Margao) David Co Mumbai, Mumbai Catholic Gymkhana; Manney's and
Popular (Pune), Narayan (Bangalore), Ritana Books (Delhi).
Online: http://goa1556.notlong.com
---
Interested Goanetters may like to check this weblink:
http://www.navhindtimes.in/iwatch/unsung-heroes-goa
Re: [Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION:
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- Book Release: Goanetter Valmiki Faleiro's Patriotism in Action Dec 18, 2010 (Sat) at 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra, Benaulim, Goa Copies available at: Hotel Mandovi or Broadway (Panjim), OIB (Mapusa), Sainik Co-Op (Porvorim), Literati (Calangute), David Co, Confidante (Margao) David Co Mumbai, Mumbai Catholic Gymkhana; Manney's and Popular (Pune), Narayan (Bangalore), Ritana Books (Delhi). Online: http://goa1556.notlong.com (DefenceColony Flyover Market) --- My dear Valmiki, Once again, I commend you for your effort. Goans have achieved much for many nations all over the world. Considering, as you correctly note, the tininess of our little Goa, that is, indeed, a remarkable achievement. I am glad that you have placed your research on the record. In an indirect way, it might also help some others to note that, despite the floated media-myth, Goans are not really, only about Football, Feni, Falleam ani Fatorda. Ole Xac might have a point that there is a fine line between gallantry and treachery. I suppose, it all depends on how one looks at issues and on which side of the fence one is standing at a particular time. So now, it is Ole Xac's opportunity to script a book on exceptional Portuguese Goans and describe their ' acts of gallantry, leadership and administrative skills'. At the end of it all, we will surely have one common thread upon which we all can celebrate i.e. Goans are a gallant set with remarkable leadership and administrative skills. Over to you, BC jc Valmiki Faleiro valmikigoa...@gmail.com wrote: Doutor-bab, Thank you for the kind words. As regards our good ole Ole Xac, a.k.a. Bernado Colaco, I shall answer his posers only if he raises them AFTER he has read the book. I am not on the politics of 1961. I am on the exceptional acts of gallantry, leadership and administrative skills, and the sheer numbers our tiny community provided to the defence establishment of India
[Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- Book Release: Goanetter Valmiki Faleiro's Patriotism in Action Dec 18, 2010 (Sat) at 5.30 pm at Goa Chitra, Benaulim, Goa Copies available at: Hotel Mandovi or Broadway (Panjim), OIB (Mapusa), Sainik Co-Op (Porvorim), Literati (Calangute), David Co, Confidante (Margao) David Co Mumbai, Mumbai Catholic Gymkhana; Manney's and Popular (Pune), Narayan (Bangalore), Ritana Books (Delhi). Online: http://goa1556.notlong.com (DefenceColony Flyover Market) --- Every country honours its heroes and heroines, so it is refreshing to see our own Goan heroes recorded in history by Valmiki Faleiro's timely book. But for such accounts, many of us would be quite ignorant of the valuable contributions made by Goa's sons and daughters in a variety of spheres. I hope many others will be encouraged to sing the praises of our unsung heroes and heroines. Mervyn Maciel
[Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION:
Patriotism or just doing a job? Patriots are those who saved Goa from the ill fated merger in 67. If not we would have been Patriots in Action from Sawantwadi! I dont't understand this outside people wanting to link Goa to their stories. BC Goans in India?s Defence Services is a first ever attempt to compile a list of Goan commissioned officers in India?s armed forces, undertaken by writer Valmiki Faleiro. The ?Goan Officer,? with fine attributes of courage, loyalty, professionalism and an espirit de corps built himself into an institution with a reputation for dependability and fair play. When a junior officer was posted to a unit headed by a Goan, he would exclaim to his mates, ?Hey, I?m lucky, I have a Goan CO (commanding officer)!? Across its 344 BW and full-colour pages, this book celebrates that ?Goan Officer?.
Re: [Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION:
re: The Goan Officer, with fine attributes of courage, loyalty, professionalism and an espirit de corps built himself into an institution with a reputation for dependability and fair play. Across its 344 BW and full-colour pages, this book celebrates that Goan Officer. Bernado Colaco wrote: Patriotism or just doing a job? Patriots are those who saved Goa from the ill fated merger in 67. If not we would have been Patriots in Action from Sawantwadi! I dont't understand this outside people wanting to link Goa to their stories. == jc's response: My dear Bernado, I had scripted two responses to your (above quoted) post. Could not decide which one was more appropriate. So, I thought that I'd probably post both responses. RESPONSE [1] What has gotten (again) into Bernado? Can he not see any good in the Goans that Valmiki's book is about? Is he one of those chaps who will now try to 'purify' the Sagres for having entered the un-purified Arabian Sea? Will he too be lining up to take advantage (real advantage) of the Fundacao (originally based in his home town) in order try wangle a phoreign trip? Why is it that we Goans find it so difficult to take a balanced,non-prejudicial and non-frothy view of others who may not share the same political (or other) viewpoint that we profess or possess? RESPONSE [2] Now that Bernado has read most of the pages of Valmiki's book, I am sure that Bernado will write his own book which will list Goans who did not possess ' fine attributes of courage, loyalty, professionalism and an espirit de corps' and did not have 'a reputation for dependability and fair play'. On a personal note, like Selma and others, I commend ALL Goan authors who write well-researched and appropriately referenced books. Writing a book is an art which few possess and even fewer practice. I have not yet read Valmiki's book but knowing his flair for writing, I am sure it is an absolute must for every Goan home. (I'd say the same for Selma's book). The well known Goan author and my friend, Ben Antao often laments that Goans do not support Goan authors. It has been my view that many Goans rather spend their money on dances, picnics and alcohol (DPA) than on a book. Could we not spend a few 'escudos' less on DPA and buy ONE copy of a well-researched and well-referenced book by a Goan author? PN that I do not and will not recommend that anybody waste One Single Kavdi or Paisa buying books which are not well-researched (i.e. gas) or not well-referenced (i.e. plagiarized). I was in Toronto during Viva Goa a few years ago. I could not help notice How easy it was for the 'Goa sausages' to be sold-out and how difficult it was for books to 'move a millimeter'. One particular author (whose name I will withhold) looked quite forlorn among his books at his deserted stand. Depressing, as far as I am concerned. ps: I congratulate Valmiki for his effort (and Frederick for his role in publishing books). I also wish to congratulate Bernado Colaco, in advance, for the book he is going to write and publish. ps 2: What is the difference between dissing Valmiki's book without even reading it and banning Leo Lawrence's book on Goa? Bravo Valmiki! good wishes jc
[Goanet] Patriotism in action
I am to sure what frothy views you are talking about? Why did the author not name the book indian patritoism in action? What do Goans have to do with wars in Jullunder, Sialkot or elsewhere which are beyond our shores? Do we have to continue being gullible and stupidos and bow our heads to the muppets from the north by greeting them with splendid words such as your excellency etc. Where is our dignity? BC My dear Bernado, I had scripted two responses to your (above quoted) post. Could not decide which one was more appropriate. So, I thought that I'd probably post both responses. RESPONSE [1] What has gotten (again) into Bernado? Can he not see any good in the Goans that Valmiki's book is about? Is he one of those chaps who will now try to 'purify' the Sagres for having entered the un-purified Arabian Sea? Will he too be lining up to take advantage (real advantage) of the Fundacao (originally based in his home town) in order try wangle a phoreign trip? Why is it that we Goans find it so difficult to take a balanced,non-prejudicial and non-frothy view of others who may not share the same political (or other) viewpoint that we profess or possess?
Re: [Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION:
Doutor-bab, Thank you for the kind words. As regards our good ole Ole Xac, a.k.a. Bernado Colaco, I shall answer his posers only if he raises them AFTER he has read the book. I am not on the politics of 1961. I am on the exceptional acts of gallantry, leadership and administrative skills, and the sheer numbers our tiny community provided to the defence establishment of India. How many, for instance, know that the very first air warrior to be awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (great gallantry medal) was a Goan IAF fighter pilot, Gp Capt Sidney Basil Noronha, awarded for his exceptional bravery during India's very first war, the 1948 JK ops? (In fact, during '48 ops, four IAF officers were awarded the MVrC, and of these, TWO were Goans -- the other Goan later rose to become the IAF's chief, Air Chief Mshl Hrushikesh Shamrao Moolgavkar.) Or that Wg Cdr Ulrich Anthony D'Cruz, another Goan, was the very first Indian soldier (across the three wings of the def services) to be awarded the Kirti Chakra (medal for valour)? There are DOZENS of such shining Goan examples -- and I have restricted myself only to commissioned officers! Talking of 1961, how many are aware that there were AT LEAST nine Goan defence officers (that I know of, there sure will be more) who directly participated in Dec-1961? May I very briefly mention them here, by service/rank/alphabetically (and sign off on that note): 1. Air V/Mshl Erlic Wilmot Pinto was AOC-in-C, Operational Command, for overall conduct of IAF’s ops in 1961. Shifting his base from Pune to the Sambra air base in Belgaum, he planned and directed air ops over Goa, Daman and Diu with minimum use of force and nil casualties to the civilian population. Hailed from the Pinto do Rosario family of Porvorim-Soccoro. 2. Gp Capt Trevor Joseph Fernandes, then a young Flt Lt, was tasked to fly a Hunter of 7 SQN from Sambra on the morning of Dec 18, to disable the powerful transmitter of Radio Goa (Emissora de Goa) at Bambolim. He did the job with a surgeon's precision at 0710 hours, just 10 minutes after the programme “Alvorada Musicala” had begun and was still on. Same day, he escorted the bombers targeting the Dabolim runway. During the mission, he noticed the tail of a Super Constellation sticking out of a hangar at Dabolim. He sought permission from Tactical Command to target the tail, to immobilize the aircraft. Air V/Mshl Pinto declined permission because of possible civilian casualties. Hails from Siolim. 3. Lt Col Louis Fonseca led a column of AMX light battle tanks of the 8 Armoured Regiment into Goa during Op Vijay. Hails from Badem, Salvador do Mundo. 4. Lt Col Paul Baylon Fernandes headed a motorized column of the 17 Infantry Division (“Black Cats”). Amongst his tasks was to take charge of the Portuguese Governor's fleet of limousines. Hails from Sarzora. 5. Cdr Joseph G Rodrigues accompanied the naval force to Goa on the INS Rajput. Saw action with the Headland Battery at Sada, above the port. Hailed from Piedade-Divar. 6. Maj Cezar PF Lobo entered Goa on Dec 18, 1961 and after Gen Vassalo e Silva sued for truce the following day, Maj Lobo was immediately ordered by Gen Candeth to take charge and look after the VIP POW and his 200 men at Alpalqueiros hill-Vasco, as Maj Lobo was fluent in the Portuguese language (in fact, ALL the nine Goan officers listed here were fluent in Portuguese.) Hailed from Aldona. 7. Wg Cdr Vishwanath Balakrishna Sawardekar also participated in Op Vijay, but his specific role is not available. Hailed from the well-known family of Sanvordem, whose huge ancestral mansion (still standing) was a rare one with two internal courtyards. 8. Lt Cdr John Eric Gomes was on the frigate INS Cauvery that engaged and disabled the only Portuguese frigate then in Goa, the Afonso de Albuquerque. Hails from Borda-Margao. 9. Lt Avelino Jose Luis de Figueiredo Melo was on the anti-submarine frigate INS Kirpan, the first to enter Goan waters on 15 Dec 1961. Hailed from Saligao. Regards, v - Original Message - From: J. Colaco jc cola...@gmail.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 6:25 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] PATRIOTISM IN ACTION: re: The Goan Officer, with fine attributes of courage, loyalty, professionalism and an espirit de corps built himself into an institution with a reputation for dependability and fair play. Across its 344 BW and full-colour pages, this book celebrates that Goan Officer. Bernado Colaco wrote: Patriotism or just doing a job? Patriots are those who saved Goa from the ill fated merger in 67. If not we would have been Patriots in Action from Sawantwadi! I dont't understand this outside people wanting to link Goa to their stories. == jc's response: My dear Bernado, I had scripted two responses to your (above quoted) post. Could not decide which one was more appropriate. So, I thought that I'd probably post both responses. RESPONSE [1] What has
[Goanet] Patriotism was guiding force for Bhau to run Goa: Shashikala
Patriotism was guiding force for Bhau to run Goa: Shashikala Written by RAMNATH N PAI RAIKAR Friday, 12 March 2010 00:34 PANAJI: The former chief minister, Ms Shashikala Kakodkar, remembering her legendary father, late Bhausaheb alias D B Bandodkar on the eve of the commencement of his birth centenary celebrations said that patriotism was the guiding force for Bhau to run Goa. “Bhau was never a politician by choice, but the situation that prevailed during the post-Liberation period, including unanimous decision of the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party leaders, forced him to head the state administration,” she recalled, observing that even though her father was not a statesman, he stood by his decisions and ensured that they were implemented in true spirit, for the benefit of the masses. “Two of his radical decisions were opening Marathi medium schools in nook and corner of Goa, and bringing land reforms in the region,” Ms Kakodkar stated, pointing out that Bhau was totally unimpressed with the British system of education, which was adopted by the independent India, and was of the opinion that basic education in Marathi and Konkani as well as Urdu language, if the students existed, would not only link the children to their culture and tradition but also build their national character. “Furthermore, my father was well aware of the feudal system prevalent in Goa and felt that the poor and downtrodden people, both Hindus and Christians, should be exposed to education as its absence leads to illiteracy, and illiteracy breeds poverty,” she added. Speaking further, Ms Kakodkar said, “Bhau was of the firm opinion that any amount of money as well as strong will to do something good for the benefit of society were just not enough, and a person with such intentions needed to have power at his disposal.” And he used power just for that purpose, she noted. Stating that Bhau was a visionary who envisaged Goa University and started post-graduation centre, thought of Kala Academy complex and built a Kala Academy theatre in the heart of the city, chalked out industrial future for Goa and developed industrial estates as well as invited large industries like MRF, Ciba Geigy and Zuari Agro Chemicals to the region, and undertook vigorous development of infrastructure for the Union Territory, Ms Kakodkar maintained, “In fact, it goes to the credit of Bhau that all big industries placed their faith in him and opened their units in Goa.” “Many versions as regards Opinion Poll are in existence, but people hardly know the reality behind Bhau’s support for merger of Goa in Maharashtra,” Ms Kakodkar said, mentioning that Bhau genuinely believed in merger but once the public verdict went against it, Bhau accepted the same gracefully and tried to detach himself from politics. “However, so great was his influence on the Goan people that he was elected to power immediately after the Opinion Poll, thus reaffirming their trust in him,” she remembered. When asked as to whether her illustrious father wanted to groom her as his political successor, the way Pt Jawaharlal Nehru did for Indira Gandhi, Ms Kakodkar said that her father never wanted her to join politics. “However, he wanted me to be very much aware of the world of politics and provided me with lot of books pertaining to great leaders around the world,” Ms Kakodkar informed, recollecting that she also helped her father in receiving towering personalities from various fields, at their residence. “In fact, my mother, a traditional Hindu lady, rarely came out to receive the official guests, but I remember a close associate of Lord Mountbatten writing to my father that he was overwhelmed with the welcome accorded to him by Bhau and my mother, during his visit to our house,” Ms Kakodkar said. “I had been keenly participating in the election campaigns of the MGP and during the 1967 assembly polls, the MGP supporters from Ponda suggested that I should contest the election, which not only took me by surprise but also made me tell them that Bhau would shrug off the idea,” Ms Kakodkar revealed. “When Bhau came to know about this suggestion presented to him in the form of a signed memorandum, he chose to remain absent at the central committee meeting of the MGP and allowed the members to take related decision without any pressure,” she informed, “And that’s how I went to contest the assembly polls.” Recalling the grim day of Bhau’s demise, Ms Kakodkar said that succeeding Bhau as the chief minister of the Union Territory was the last thing in her mind. “All of us were overtaken by grief and in no way such a thought could come to my mind,” she maintained, recollecting that the then governor S K Bannerji was in Daman, while her brother, Siddharth was in Mumbai, all set to board a plane to America. “However, as I came to know later, the MGP in one voice decided on me as the next chief minister of Goa, Daman and Diu, and
[Goanet] Patriotism, nationalism, scoundrels etc etc
August 20 - WORLD GOA DAY Celebrating the inclusion of Konkani in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution on August 20, 1992 For a list of World Goa Day events see: http://worldgoaday2009.blogspot.com Re: Patriotism is the last resort of the scoundrel, I think love of the land, one's peoples is good, in fact super, provided it doesnt result in chauvinism and hatred towards others. In fact, patriotism of various people can be a win win situation for all. Check this song from ABBA about freedom which is --- I am told --- inspired by the Mexican liberation movement. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ohr4P8E_io Hey, if it helps people in India get inspired towards liberty, why not? regards, Samir
