Thursday marks the centenary of a Portuguese-era cross, which was erected in Worli Koliwada in 1919.
The cross was rebuilt in 1969 after it was damaged while being decorated for its golden jubilee celebrations. Villagers recall how the entire fishing village got together to rebuild it within six hours before the day’s next mass. Runita Nakhwa (30), a resident of the village, said, “I think this is a god-given opportunity and I am grateful to witness this special occasion. It is very rare that any religious cross completes 100 years and the entire village should be given credit for preserving the sanctity of the cross.”
Bishop to visit village
Edwin Colaco, bishop of the Catholic diocese of Aurangabad, will visit the village on Thursday. All 400 families in the village will congregate for the mass, which will be followed by cultural events organised by Tarun Pragati Sangh, a local body. Tarun Pragati Sangh’s core committee has been organising events in the village for over 50 years.
Manohar Worlikar (72), a retired Air India employee, said, “I joined the Tarun Pragati Sangh in 1969 after my brothers voluntarily joined the group with the intention of bringing the entire village together. Till today, I share the same passion and love for the community and its activities.”
Residents of Worli Koliwada said that they celebrate every festival together and do not restrict themselves to Catholic festivals. Irene Worlikar (32), another resident of the village, said that they also celebrate festivals like Navratri, Diwali, and Holi with singing, dancing, skits and games. Ms. Worlikar said, “We come together and celebrate every festival with a lot of joy. This holy event is more special because it is a celebration of our unity and bond as a community.”
