PANAJI
In a unique effort to spread the teachings and life of St Francis Xavier, revered across faiths in Goa, two devotees, Agnelo Alcasoas and Michael Gracias, have collaborated to bring his story to the masses through print and film.
Agnelo Alcasoas, Director of Queeny Productions and Publications, and Romi Konkani writer Michael Gracias have worked extensively on projects that highlight Goa’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Encouraged by Alcasoas after his tiatr Goykarponn Gracias undertook an in-depth study of St Francis Xavier’s life.
Speaking about the project, Gracias shared, “A tourist once asked me ‘Woh mummy kahan hai?’ referring to St Francis Xavier’s relics. That misinformation made us realise the need to present the true story of the saint.”
Gracias’s efforts resulted in a Konkani book written in Roman script, now translated into multiple languages. Contributors include Fr Roman Rodrigues (Devanagari Konkani), the Konkani Association of St Aloysius College, Mangalore (Kannada script), Dr Magdalena D’Souza and Prof Salim Gaded (Hindi), journalist Raju B Naik (Marathi), and Nini George Varghese (Malayalam). The Kannada script version will be launched in Mangalore next month.
In parallel, Gracias conceptualised a docudrama film For the Greater Glory of God (English) and Devache Vorte Mhoime Khatir (Konkani), produced by Alcasoas under Queeny Productions. Directed by Gracias and featuring cinematography by Dadadiraj Shirodkar, the film includes expert contributions from clergy and legal professionals, with actors Rupesh Jogle (as St Francis) and others portraying key roles.
The title song, sung by Cielda Pereira and composed by Lenoy Gomindes, adds a soulful touch. The docudrama and literary works will be released on 18 December 2024 at Queensville Hall, Queeny Hotel, Velsao Pale.
This initiative aims to inspire audiences while sharing the legacy of Gõycho Saib with authenticity and depth.
