Royston
Fernandes, author of “Shall We Save the Earth” unveiled his second book on
climate change - adaptation and mitigation. The book is written exclusively for
the people of Mangalore with a global perspective. Royston speaks of the
struggles that ordinary Mangaloreans would endure due to climate change in the
next few years.
The
book was released by Ms. Vidya Dinkar an eminent environmentalist and social
activist who reminded the gathering about the irony of the situation wherein on
one end of Mangalore a book that speaks of conservation and preservation is
unveiled at the other end the government representatives are inaugurating a
petrochemical project that would gradually turn Mangalore into a petrochemical
export hub. This would not only destroy the surrounding ecology but also leave
the thriving ‘Mogaveera’ community of Mangalore who are predominantly
fishermen, into a perilous situation.
Mr.
Eric Ozario – social and cultural activist from Mangalore was also present at
the event as a patron. He remembered Nelson Mandela and quoted Malcom
Muggeridge saying “Never forget that only dead fish swim with the stream” to
encourage and inspire Royston on his journey which he described as a “way of
the cross.”
The
book was unveiled in an unusual manner. The guests were treated to a sight of a
jar (buyao/bharani) on the podium. The event’s compere Mr. Eric Ozario
explained that the jar was a symbol of preservation as it is quite common for
Mangaloreans to prepare for the rainy season with jars filled with pickle
stashed away in the attic. He said since the book speaks about preservation
this is perhaps the most fitting welcome it deserves. Ms. Vidya Dinkar then
unveiled the book and presented it to the audience.
The
book has been published by Notionpress Chennai and is available for sale online
at Flipkart, Bookadda, Amazon and on the publisher website. All proceeds from
the book would be used to fund activities aimed at educating the common man
about climate change.
Written
by – J.Marian.D’Souza
