(ZENIT News / Goa, India, 10.10.2024).- In the midst of the preparation for the venerated Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics, planned for the end of 2024, a former leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) nationalist Hindu group, Subhash Velingkar, has unleashed a storm in Goa with his controversial statements about the authenticity of the relics.
During a public meeting on October 2, Velingkar suggested that a “DNA test” be done to confirm the veracity of the remains, and said they didn’t belong to the Jesuit Saint, but to a Buddhist monk of Sri Lanka.
Moreover, Velingkar launched a campaign to replace Saint Francis as Protector of Goa, known affectionately as Goencho Saib, by Parshuram, a figure of Hindu mythology.
An Attack on the Catholic Faith
Velingkar’s words generated indignation in Goa’s Catholic community, which did not hesitate to raise its voice. More than twelve complaints were presented, demanding his arrest for “outrage to religious sentiments and insult to beliefs,” under the Indian Penal Code. Tension grew with public protests demanding his detention until the end of the Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics, planned between November 2024 and January 2025.
Through its Executive Secretary, Father Savio Fernandes, the Council for Social Justice and Peace (CSJP) of the Archdiocese of Goa, energetically condemned Velingkar’s statements, describing them as “insulting and derogatory.” According to Father Fernandes, the comments have not only wounded Catholics, but also people of other communities that venerate the Saint for favours received, after praying in his name.
The Solemn Exposition: A Sacred Tradition
The Solemn Exposition of Saint Francis Xavier’s relics is one of the most important events in Goa’s religious life, attracting pilgrims from all over the world every ten years. Planned to begin on November 21, 2024 and to conclude on January 5, 2025, the 18th edition of this Exposition will enable the faithful to venerate the Jesuit Saint’s remains in a solemn procession that will go to the Cathedral of Sé and the Basilica of the Good Jesus.
Saint Francis Xavier, who died in 1552 off the coast of China, has been a symbol of devotion and faith since his body was taken to Goa in 1554. In the course of the centuries, his relics have been a motive of profound veneration, especially because of their notable state of conservation. For many, their incorruptibility is seeing as a sign of holiness, which increases the religious fervour that surrounds his figure.
The Response of the Catholic Community
In face of Velingkar’s attempts to sow doubts about the relics’ authenticity, Goa’s Catholic community has reacted firmly. The CSJP has requested the Authorities to act in keeping with the current laws to stop what it considers a deliberate attempt to create division between religious communities. Underscored in addition is that not only is Saint Francis Xavier a central figure for Catholics, but is venerated by people of different beliefs in the region, which makes the attack on his legacy even more painful.
A Climate of Tension and Respect
The context of these statements is complex, as for a long time Goa has been a melting pot of cultures and religions. The peaceful coexistence among different communities has been a key element in the State’s identity. Velingkar’s statements not only attempt against an historical and religious figure of great importance for Catholics, but also touch the sensitive fibers of a society that values interreligious harmony.
As the date of the Solemn Exposition approaches, Goa’s Catholics are preparing to celebrate one of their most sacred traditions, with the hope that the event will unfold in a climate of respect and devotion. Beyond any controversy, Saint Francis Xavier’s relics will continue being a beacon of faith for millions of devotees who see in his figure a symbol of hope and miracles.
The controversy unleashed by Velingkar, although profoundly painful for many, highlights the importance of history and faith in Goa and, as legacy of figures such as Saint Francis Xavier, continues being a vital part of the region’s spiritual fabric.
