Bordumsa: 22 February 2024: During the Provincial Visitation of Don Bosco Bordumsa, Fr. Jose Kuruvachira SDB, the Provincial of Dimapur Salesian Province, unveiled the book “Kristapurana” Translation by Fr. Dr. Nelson Falcao, S.D.B on 22 February 2024. The event, held in the presence of key figures from the Salesian community, marked a celebration of scholarly achievement and cultural enrichment.
Fr. Benny James, the Provincial Economer, along with Fr. Anto Tharakan SDB, the Rector of Bordumsa, Fr. Manoj Abraham SDB, Principal of Don Bosco School, and Fr. Sandeep Barla SDB, the Administrator of Don Bosco School, graced the occasion with their presence.
The book release showcased Fr. Dr. Nelson Falcao, SDB’s, significant contributions to theology, inter-religious dialogue, and literary research. Fr. Falcao’s distinguished career, spanning decades of dedicated scholarship and pastoral ministry, has left an indelible mark on the academic and spiritual landscape.
Fr. Jose Kuruvachira’s words of encouragement and support echoed the Province’s dedication to nurturing scholars and fostering a spirit of academic excellence. As the books were released into the world, they symbolized not only Fr. Falcao’s scholarly achievements but also the enduring legacy of the Salesian mission in promoting education, cultural understanding, and spiritual enlightenment.
With the unveiling of Fr. Falcao’s latest works, the Salesian community looks forward to continued contributions to academia, inter-religious dialogue, and the promotion of cultural harmony and understanding.
In a remarkable feat of linguistic and scholarly endeavour, Fr. Dr. Nelson Falcao, S.D.B., a distinguished Professor of Philosophy and Theology, has unveiled his latest masterpiece: the translation of the “Kristapurana” into English and Marathi. With a career spanning decades of dedicated research and literary contributions, Fr. Falcao’s work stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to both inter-religious dialogue and the preservation of ancient literature.
The significance of Fr. Falcao’s translation transcends mere academic appreciation. Prof. Dr. Kalyan Kale, former Head of the Marathi Department at Pune University, lauds Fr. Falcao’s effort not only for its scholarly merit but also for its broader impact on cultural preservation and academic discourse. He emphasizes the importance of Fr. Falcao’s work in the context of colleges and universities, where it serves as a beacon of cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Francis D’Sa, S.J., Director of the Institute for the Study of Religion in Pune, hails Fr. Falcao’s translation as an integral contribution to the legacy of scholars who have bridged the gap between diverse religious traditions. He aptly compares Fr. Falcao’s significance to that of esteemed figures like Robert de Nobili, S.J., and Thomas Stephens, S.J., underscoring the enduring impact of his work on inter-religious dialogue.
Fr. Falcao’s translation is not merely an academic exercise but a profound testament to the values of inculturation, inter-religious dialogue, and unity among all faiths. Prof. Dr. Josef Neuner, S.J., reflects on the broader implications of Fr. Falcao’s work within the contemporary literary landscape and its invaluable contribution to value education.
The “Kristapurana,” originally authored by Thomas Stephens in the 17th century, finds new life and relevance through Fr. Falcao’s meticulous translation. It serves as a bridge between diverse cultural and religious traditions, embodying universal messages of fraternity, equality, and ethical conduct. Fr. Falcao’s endeavour is not just a linguistic feat but a spiritual and intellectual journey that resonates deeply with readers across generations and faiths.
In a world marked by increasing secularism and cultural erosion, Fr. Falcao’s translation serves as a timely reminder of the enduring value of spiritual wisdom and ethical principles. As Bishop Thomas Menamparampil eloquently states, Fr. Falcao’s work offers readers a delightful experience and access to the timeless teachings of Jesus Christ, inspiring hope and guiding humanity towards a brighter future.
Fr. Falcao’s translation of the “Kristapurana” is not just a scholarly achievement but a testament to the transformative power of literature in fostering understanding, empathy, and unity across cultural and religious divides. It stands as a beacon of light in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, inviting readers to embark on a journey of spiritual discovery and communal harmony.
Fr. Thomas Stephens, S.J., an English Jesuit missionary, arrived in India in 1579, embarking on a lifelong journey of service and cultural exchange. Born in England in 1549, Stephens was drawn to the Indian missions, where he dedicated himself to spreading the Christian message. His most notable work, the “Kristapurana,” is a Christian Biblical Epic written in Sanskritized ancient Marathi, consisting of approximately 11,000 verses.
Stephens’ translation of the Kristapurana into Marathi prose, English prose, and Assamese prose represents a remarkable fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. His narrative traces the history of salvation from Creation to Parousia, focusing on the life of Jesus Christ within the Hindu-Vaishnavite tradition. Besides the Kristapurana, Stephens authored significant works on Marathi grammar and Christian doctrine, leaving a lasting impact on Indian literature and culture.
Fr. Nelson Falcao, SDB, continues Stephens’ legacy by promoting the Kristapurana and its translations. Through conferences, publications, and critical editions, Falcao ensures that Stephens’ pioneering work remains accessible to scholars and enthusiasts worldwide.
The Kristapurana serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Indian Christianity and the universal message of Christ’s teachings. It embodies a unique blend of literary styles and religious traditions, offering readers a profound insight into the mystery of faith and the enduring values of humanity.
As the legacy of Fr. Thomas Stephens continues to inspire generations, his contributions to Indian literature and interfaith dialogue remain invaluable, bridging the gap between diverse cultures and fostering mutual understanding and respect.
Fr. Dr. Nelson Falcao, SDB, is a distinguished scholar and priest known for his extensive contributions to theology, inter-religious dialogue, and literary research.
1. Education: Fr. Falcao holds a BA in Sociology & Education from Pune University, graduating with first-class honours. He pursued further studies in philosophy, earning BA and MA degrees from Jnana Deepa Vidyapeeth, Pune. He also holds BA and MA degrees in theology from the Salesian Pontifical University in Rome, where he was ordained as a priest by St. Pope John Paul II.
2. Doctorate: Fr. Falcao completed his Ph.D. in Theology, focusing on the Kristapurana, at Jnana Deepa Vidyapeeth.
3. Publications: He has authored 30 books, covering various theological and literary topics, along with approximately 75 articles and 60 book reviews.
4. International Recognition: In November 2014, Fr. Falcao was invited to Oxford, UK, for lectures on inter-religious dialogue and inculturation related to the Kristapurana.
5. Teaching Experience: Fr. Falcao has taught at various institutions, including Kristu Jyoti College in Bangalore, Divya Daan Salesian Philosophate in Nashik, and St. Pius Seminary in Mumbai. He has also been associated with theological education in Dimapur, North East India, and the regional theologate of Jesuits in Nashik and Gujarat.
6. Current Role: Presently, Fr. Falcao serves as a parish priest in the Northeast region, along with managerial responsibilities at St. Joseph’s School. He continues to contribute to academic discourse through paper presentations, seminars, symposiums, and conferences.
Fr. Dr. Nelson Falcao’s dedication to scholarship, education, and pastoral ministry exemplifies his commitment to enriching both the academic and spiritual realms.