GOLDEN years in the City of Joy

Celebrating 50 glorious years as a Jesuit in Kolkata, Father Felix Raj has seen the city transform for better during his stint at St. Xavier's College and University wherein he led through his vision to serve the community with education and other noble services

- PRABHAT KUMAR DATTA

quiz: Name a Kolkatan whose first journey to the city was inextricably linked to Lord Ganesh, who witnessed from close quarters the visit of Pope John Paul II to Mother Teresa's city and who witnessed a President and a Prime Minister marking milestones associated with a celebrated institution.

Answer: Father Felix Raj, the founder Vice-Chancellor of St. Xavier's University, Kolkata, who is celebrating 50 remarkable years of dedicated service as a Jesuit in Kolkata.

This golden milestone commemorates his extraordinary journey marked by transformative leadership, unwavering commitment and pioneering achievements.

Father Felix Raj shared a remarkable personal anecdote in Telegraph on September 1, 2019, revealing how Lord Ganesh's divine inspiration led him to embark on a bold journey to Kolkata in June 1973.

Of these 50 golden years, 33 years were spent at St. Xavier's College, Kolkata, in various capacities, seven at St. Xavier's University, Kolkata, and the remaining 10 on Jesuit training in Chennai, Pune and Delhi.

Fr. Raj's illustrious career began in 1984 as a Lecturer in Economics, laying the foundation for a legacy that would inspire generations.

During his time as a lecturer, St. Xavier's College celebrated its 125th anniversary in 1985, with the then President of India, Giani Zail Singh, gracing the occasion as the chief guest.

In 1986, Kolkata welcomed His Holiness Pope John Paul II, who addressed the city's populace on St. Xavier's College grounds.

Fr. Raj skillfully oversaw security and media arrangements for this historic event.

His ascent to leadership commenced in 1997 as vice-principal of the prestigious Morning Commerce department, a role he held with distinction for 12 years.

In 1996, he was appointed Rector of St. Xavier's College, serving for six years.

He was the youngest Rector of this renowned college since the independence of India.