|
"A Good Feeling...An Emotional Experience..."
Union defence minister George Fernandes talks about his visit to Mangalore.
A Profile of George Fernandes - by Richie Lasrado CLICK HERE
*Read Why I am a Christian - Article written by George Fernandes - CLICK HERE
Getting an interview from the union defence minister involved a great effort. First it was decided that the St Aloysius College principal's chamber, a little before the jubilee inauguration function would start, could be the right place. Then the helicopter carrying him from Mysore had not arrived until a while before the event. He could reach the venue just in time.
According to the revised arrangement, it was after the vote of thanks that I could talk to him when he would in the front row to watch the cultural programme. Fr Principal was too kind in gesturing to me to come over and make me sit between him and the defence minister in the front row. But the beating of drums and other sound effects connected with the show made everything inaudible. More than that he wanted to concentrate on the programme and did not want to be disturbed. Already, the students of journalism at SAC and the correspondent of a national daily were also waiting. Finally, by consensus, it was agreed to be a combined interview for the benefit of everyone, with question time shared.
The interview itself had its own interruptions. There were students who were mobbing him, and autograph-seekers who were being politely turned away by his PA and the cops. George obliged many youngsters who wanted to be photographed with him.
In between, he could not help talking intimately to his good old colleagues and companions, Ammembal Balappa and Dr Sanjivanath Aikal. During the question-time, there was a call from the head of a prominent religious centre, who wanted to meet him.
After having crossed all the hurdles, whatever that could be squeezed out amidst his tight schedule and even far tighter security is excerpted below.
How does it feel to be here at your city of birth?
It is always a good feeling. And it's also a very emotional experience.
What has been bringing you here to Mangalore very often in recent times?
It is my city of birth. My parents were from here. Although they moved out and passed out, and even though my brothers spread towards Bangalore, Mumbai and Canada, I still have my emotional attachment towards this place. Besides, there are defence establishments close by. Hence work brings me down to Mangalore.
And what are your feelings as you come to your alma mater again?
I come here with a sense of gratitude. There are a lot of memories of old friendships. Here too I feel emotional because a lot of them are no more with us. It is the Jesuits who gave me strength in vicissitudes.
And the discipline being imbibed here?
The benefit of learning discipline is the ensuring of a greater future. This statement cannot be controverted.
How do you look at this college's future?
It certainly has a great future. The autonomy that the college is aiming at is going to be a reality soon.
What are your thoughts on the issue of education?
In s
|
