Interactive Session on Kanara Catholics – A Legacy of Faith and Culture Held at Saint Agnes College

The Department of Arts and Humanities organized an interactive session on “Kanara Catholics – A Legacy of Faith and Culture” on 8 January 2026 at Saint Agnes College A4 Avila Block. The session aimed to provide students with historical and social insights into the faith, culture and heritage of Kanara Catholics.

The resource person for the programme was Dr Kranti Kiran Farias, a renowned historian, social activist, and President of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, Mumbai. Dr Farias delivered an enlightening talk focusing on the historical and social perspectives of the people of Goa and South Canara. She critically examined the impact of the caste system and emphasized how caste-based discrimination has led to social inequality, injustice and division.

Dr Farias also highlighted the hardships faced by people during the Portuguese Inquisition in Goa, which resulted in the suppression of indigenous traditions and the destruction of local institutions. She elaborated on the concept of Goa as the mother country of Konkani-speaking Mangaloreans by tracing the deep historical, cultural, and emotional connections between Goa and the Mangalorean community.

Further, she spoke about the unique festivals, customs, and traditions that form an integral part of the region’s cultural identity, stressing the need to preserve and respect this rich heritage for future generations. The session concluded with an engaging discussion on the cultural heritage of Christians, particularly in South Canara and Goa.

The event was graced by Dr R. Nagesh, Dean of Arts and Humanities. The programme was coordinated by Dr Meera Devi, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of History. Thanmayee K. Bhatt, Student Vice President of Arts, welcomed the gathering, Sampoorna of II B.A. compered the programme, and J. V. Jaffrin of II B.A. proposed the vote of thanks.