Spirited Call

Dr Frazer Mascarenhas SJ,principal,says,“On its 140th anniversary,we wanted to take stock of this unique institution before we get the autonomous status.”

The principal,however,maintains that they were not driven by nostalgia. Instead,the book is a step towards displaying the treasures they have as well as the mood that drives it.

Roger Pereira,alumnus and the force behind the book,echoes,“Students are not interested in its history. Acquainting them with the spirit is more important.”

Photographer David de Souza,who has been a visiting faculty member for the past seven years,is also clear that he wanted to capture the college’s tempo. “Every year,students aged 19 or 20 join the college. They retain its youth.”

The book,priced at Rs 3,000,has been divided into sections highlighting history, buildings,departments,library,canteen as well as the student activities. It ends with Something Special,which gives an insight into what makes this institution so unique.

True to the task entrusted upon him,de Souza has photographed students digging into batata vadas; in festive mood during the annual event Malhar; and even sporting a surgical look in the science laboratories. The most stunning images,however,belong to the college established in 1869. It was initially known as St Xavier’s High College. However,it moved to the present campus in 1900.

Filled with trivia,anecdotes and ‘Postcard from the past’,the book offers a chance to rediscover the afresh as it was for those who have been part of it.

Shabnam Minwalla,who was in charge of its text,had studied here in the 80s. Writing for the book,made her revisit not only the place and its nook and cranny but also the college magazines printed over the past 100 years. “Excerpts from these magazines have also been included in the book,” she says.

It also includes photographs of its famous alumni like Adi Godrej,Mukesh Ambani,Anu Aga and Charles Correa posing on its surroundings. The book will be unveiled at the alumni night on Sunday at 6 pm.