Barkur, May 19, 2025 – barkuronline.com is proud to announce the release of Christians in the Largest Democracy, a compelling new book by Dr. Steven Menezes, a distinguished son of Barkur. Published this year, the book offers a nuanced exploration of the Christian experience in India, delving into its historical roots, societal contributions, and contemporary challenges. Dr. Menezes, with his deep ties to Barkur and a remarkable academic and professional journey, brings a unique perspective to this timely work.
About the Author: A Proud Barkurian
Dr. Steven Menezes hails from Kacchur Village in Barkur, a historic town that once served as the sub-capital of the Hoysala Kings, the provincial capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, and the ancient capital of the Alupa dynasty. Born into a Christian family, he was raised by his maternal grandmother, the late Mrs. Mary Sequeira, to whom the book is dedicated. Dr. Menezes studied at Barkur’s National Junior College before pursuing psychology at the University of Bombay. His early ambition to become a Catholic priest was deferred as he explored diverse interests, including Hindu Jyotish astrology, which he studied in Southern Kerala, earning the prestigious Vidyavachaspathi status from Kamalnishtha Sansthan, Kolsia.
A multifaceted individual, Dr. Menezes has made significant contributions in fashion, social welfare, and administration. He transitioned from developing fashion products to exporting them to Europe and the US, working with renowned companies like Eurodif in Paris. A committed philanthropist and vegan, he has collaborated with organizations like PETA and People for Animals, earning recognition from the late Shri Gopinath Munde in 1996 for his social welfare efforts. In 2022, he was honored as the Best Administrator in India by GIA India, an award conferred by Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi. Currently, Dr. Menezes serves as Secretary & CEO of Noida Golf Course, India’s largest golfing facility.
Reflecting on his motivation for writing the book, Dr. Menezes shares, “As someone born to parents from different Christian castes and raised in Barkur’s diverse community, I’ve seen both interfaith harmony and rising tensions. My study of Christian theology and Hindu Jyotish gave me a unique lens to understand these complexities. I wrote this book to present facts, foster dialogue, and highlight the contributions and challenges of Christians in India, hoping to bridge divides in our pluralistic society.”
About the Book: A Comprehensive Look at Indian Christianity
'Christians in the Largest Democracy' traces the 2,000-year history of Christianity in India, beginning with St. Thomas’s arrival in Kerala in 52 AD. Dr. Menezes explores its spread through voluntary and controversial means, including colonial-era conversions, and highlights the community’s contributions through schools, hospitals, and social welfare initiatives. The book addresses contemporary challenges, citing data from the United Christian Forum and Evangelical Fellowship of India, which reported 834 violent incidents against Christians in 2024, a sharp rise from 525 in the first eight months of 2023. It examines the role of Hindu nationalism in these tensions and critiques problematic conversion practices within some Christian denominations.
The book is structured across ten chapters, covering topics from the origins of Christianity and its arrival in India to the Goa Inquisition, caste dynamics, and modern political representation. Dr. Menezes offers balanced insights, acknowledging both the positive impacts of Christian institutions and the ethical concerns surrounding aggressive conversion tactics. Drawing from his personal experiences in Barkur, where interfaith harmony once thrived, he advocates for ethical conversion practices, rejection of violence, constitutional protections, and interfaith dialogue to foster peace.
A Voice from Barkur to the Nation
For the people of Barkur, Dr. Menezes’s work is a source of pride, reflecting the town’s legacy of cultural and religious diversity. His book not only honors his roots but also amplifies Barkur’s spirit of coexistence on a national stage. 'Christians in the Largest Democracy' is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand India’s religious dynamics and the path toward a more inclusive future.
The book is available in Kindle and Hardcover version at