Udupi, Sep 19: ‘Village to College,’ a biography of renowned research scientist Dr Gabriel Fernandes was formally released to the public at Daijiworld Udupi Office by well-known poet, writer and Kavita Trust president, Kishoo Barkur, on Wednesday, September 18.
In his address, Kishoo Barkur recalled meeting with the genius in the airport for the first time and a friendship that retained for lifetime though he is half of Fernandes’s age.
“This book will serve as a lamppost to students to aspire for greater things in life. It speaks about hard work and determination. A man rose from literally nothing to a place of professor emeritus in University of Texas, USA. This is a unique success story,” Kishoo Barkur said.
“The content, quality presentation and exhaustive research in the compilation are visible while going through the pages,” he concluded.
A popular theatre personality, a well-known drama writer and film actor Alwyn Andrade was the chief guest who shared his acquaintance with Dr Fernandes, a scholar with a generous heart.
He spoke about the scientist’s involvement in getting a road laid to Moodahadu Kudru, his village. Dr Fernandes also constructed a home for homeless in Moodahadu. “He is a human being first and later a scientist,” Andrade said.
In the beginning, Kevin Rodrigues, manager- operations, Daijiworld Udupi, welcomed the gathering and briefed the intention to have the release ceremony in Udupi. The biography has already been officially released in San Antonio Texas, USA in the august presence of Dr Fernandes himself. Rodrigues added that a plan was there to invite Dr Fernandes to India. However, since Dr Fernandes is 84 years-old, he found it difficult to travel.
Franklyn Fernandes, another guest and family member, shared his feelings on this occasion and said that the book must reach all universities and colleges.
Archibald Furtado who compiled and edited this biography thanked everyone who cooperated in his attempt and mission to record the life story of the great personality.
“Various writers, priests, and friends of Dr Gabriel Fernandes have shared their feelings in the book. We made a small beginning and many such achievers must be introduced to the society so that the present generation may be motivated by reading about Dr Gabriel Fernandes. He is a true role model,” Furtado said.
Copies of the biography were distributed free of cost to the audience and the organisers informed that books will be dispatched and delivered to all Colleges under the Mangaluru University soon.