Peter Gonsalves - Profile on Academia.edu (original) (raw)

PAPERS on Gandhi by Peter Gonsalves

""This is the first analysis of Gandhi’s dressing style in terms of communication theory and an e... more ""This is the first analysis of Gandhi’s dressing style in terms of communication theory and an exploration of the subliminal messages that were subtly communicated to large audience. Peter Gonsalves chooses three famous theorists from the field of communication studies and looks at Gandhi through the lens of each one, to ...give us a fascinating and new insight into one of the most famous men from South Asia.

The author first prepares the ground for the theoretical investigation by exploring the breadth of Gandhi’s communication skills. He provides essential information on a wide range of Gandhi’s communication skills, with a view to proposing interesting areas of research for communication scholars.

The book deals with the qualitative and quantitative aspects of Gandhi’s verbal output, his linguistic capacity, his journalistic and letter-writing style, his peace communication in an atmosphere of conflict, his organizational ability and the international repercussions of his mass mediated messages. It also elaborates the different types of non-verbal communication he used, such as silence, fasting, clothing, personal presence and charisma.

The book closes with, perhaps for the first time, a Gandhian approach to symbolisation for socio-political change. Photographs of Gandhi in different phases of his life have been used to provide a visual chronology of sartorial change and emphasise the arguments in the book." - Sage Publications

'Clothing for Liberation' is also translated into Hindi and Marathi by Sage-Bhasha, India.

"Khadi: Gandhi's Mega Symbol of Subversion" investigates the power of a symbol to qualitatively t... more "Khadi: Gandhi's Mega Symbol of Subversion" investigates the power of a symbol to qualitatively transform society by studying Mahatma Gandhi's use of clothing as a metaphor for unity, empowerment and liberation from imperial subjugation.

The book brings together historical evidence of Gandhi's search for a semiotics of attire in his quest for personal integrity and socio-political change. From a multidisciplinary perspective, it closely examines the 'subversion' underlying his sartorial communication.

The symbolic potential for change which khadi has, is therefore seen, not merely as 'revolution' or 'sedition', but as a sustained, well-organised strategy for achieving full independence or purna swaraj.

The author also discusses the complex challenges in Gandhi's highly polarized environment, such as the conflict between the British Empire and the Indian National Congress, Hindu-Muslim tensions, the urban-rural divide, and the question of untouchability.

Photographs, illustrations and an extensive appendix considerably add to the historical value of the study, making it useful for students and scholars in various fields of South Asian research." - Sage Publications

'Khadi: Mega Symbol...' is also translated into Hindi and Marathi by Sage-Bhasha, India.

Gandhi today is universally recognised as an international icon, but did his influence extend to ... more Gandhi today is universally recognised as an international icon, but did his influence extend to the Vatican as well? The author unravels the answer by pursuing six research targets. The book opens with a historical inquiry into Gandhi’s unsuccessful attempt to meet Pius XI, and then goes on to examine the writings and speeches of the Popes from Pius XI to Benedict XVI who alluded to Gandhi. Adopting a hermeneutical slant, it also engages in a comparative study of the thoughts and actions of Pope Francis and Gandhi, and highlights some remarkable similarities that call for an explanation. In the process, the book explores and assesses the popular claim that Gandhi was influenced by Christ, and the not so popular conjecture that Francis was influenced by Gandhi.

Sage-Bhasha, 2018

SVTANTRTA KE LIYE PARIDHAN

Tej-Prasarini (Light-Spreader), 2018

WE CHOOSE PEACE ! is a workbook for South Asian peace-builders from ages 5 to 15. It is best used... more WE CHOOSE PEACE ! is a workbook for South Asian peace-builders from ages 5 to 15. It is best used along with the teachers’ resource manual EXERCISES IN PEACE EDUCATION (2018 edition), which provides easy lesson plans for educating children to peace.

'Exercises in Peace Education' (2018) is a resource manual consisting of a series of lesson plans... more 'Exercises in Peace Education' (2018) is a resource manual consisting of a series of lesson plans for educators of South Asia for promoting peace and nonviolence among young people from ages 5 to 17. Through experiential and participatory learning, they are encouraged to develop their knowledge, attitudes and skills in order to become peace-filled persons and proactive peacebuilders. The lessons raise awareness, provoke thinking, challenge stereotypes, point to solutions and incite to action. To be relevant to all South Asians without distinction, an attempt has been made to sustain a multi-ethnic, pluri-cultural and inter-religious viewpoint.

Divyadaan 35/2 (2024) 267-272

Amid the distant backdrop of global, protocol-defying warfare, a glimmer of hope emerged as 320 e... more Amid the distant backdrop of global, protocol-defying warfare, a glimmer of hope emerged as 320 educators—spanning generations—embarked on a journey to embrace the principles of peace education. The study aimed to assess how teachers from 15 schools, managed by the Salesians of Don Bosco in the Mumbai Province, understood the foundational concepts of peace and conflict. This understanding would serve as a stepping stone for instilling peace values in their students. A pre-test and post-test survey method was employed to evaluate the quality of the educators' progress and insights.

Questo articolo inedito presenta un piano motivato e annotato per un corso breve del Giornalismo ... more Questo articolo inedito presenta un piano motivato e annotato per un corso breve del Giornalismo di Pace che è idoneo per l'insegnamento agli studenti del giornalismo, delle comunicazioni, degli studi dei media, pace e conflitto. Si basa su corsi che l'autore ha insegnato per molti anni, e l'obiettivo dell'articolo è quello di stimolare gli insegnanti a realizzare i propri corsi.
I traduttori: Peter Gonsalves e Paola Springhetti

Divyadaan, 2021

The author explores the differences in the ways of knowing God, with a particular focus on the ra... more The author explores the differences in the ways of knowing God, with a particular focus on the rational proofs of God’s existence as perceived by noteworthy authors from Christian and Hindu traditions. He deepens the study with insights put forth by Raimundo Panikkar in his seminal work on the encounter between both religions. A possible blend of the two traditions is proposed.

PAPA FRANCISCO Y GANDHI: 5 CLAVES DE LIDERAZGO CON EL EJEMPLO (link)

aleteia.org (spanish)

Mysterion, Rivista di Ricerca in Teologia Spirituale, ANNO 13 NUMERO 2 , 2020

La domanda sottesa all’articolo del prof. Peter Gonsalves su “Gesù di Gandhi” ricorda che cosa Ga... more La domanda sottesa all’articolo del prof. Peter Gonsalves su “Gesù di Gandhi” ricorda che cosa Gandhi accettò, rifiutò o reinterpretò per arrivare a una percezione di Gesù veramente sua, ma diversa dal “Gesù” in cui credono i cristiani. Gandhi si sentì attratto dalla vita e dagli insegnamenti di Gesù Cristo e nel 1926 accettò l’invito ad insegnare
la Bibbia al Gujarat National College di Ahmedabad, in India. Il prof. Peter dimostra che Gandhi ha rivendicato il suo diritto personale di essere ispirato da Gesù, ma senza aderire ad una denominazione cristiana e senza respingere la pari dignità di tutte le scritture. Ha creduto che “l’imitazione di Cristo o l’identificazione morale con lui” fosse l’imperativo universale, ma ha respinto il “cristianesimo” a causa della sua dipendenza dal potere imperiale, dalla cultura lassista e dalle pretese di salvezza esclusiva che ha offuscato la sua identità originale. Ha “respinto il cristianesimo per amore di Gesù”.

The Examiner, 2001

An article published in 2001 to offer a glimpse of the harm caste-discrimination has done through... more An article published in 2001 to offer a glimpse of the harm caste-discrimination has done through the centuries.

The Examiner, 1990

An article published in 1990 on the importance of the Mandal Commission for creating a more equit... more An article published in 1990 on the importance of the Mandal Commission for creating a more equitable India.

A speech by Antonino Drago, at the prayer vigil for the 50th World Day of Peace, in the Diocese ... more A speech by Antonino Drago, at the prayer vigil for the 50th World Day of Peace, in the Diocese of Pisa, 27 January 2017 (translated by Peter Gonsalves). Drago (1938 - ) won the 'Italian Culture of Peace Award' in 2000, for his commitment to Nonviolent People's Defense and for his search for an alternative to war through methods of conflict resolution. He is the author of many articles and books on peace and non-violence. (Cf. <https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonino_Drago_(pacifista)>

EduFocus, Archdiocesan Board of Education, Mumbai, India , 2019

Gandhi once declared: "The message of the [Indian] spinning wheel is much wider than its circumfe... more Gandhi once declared: "The message of the [Indian] spinning wheel is much wider than its circumference." When he shared this metaphor with American friends in September 1925, no one ever imagined that people from all over the globe would one day embrace his nonviolent political philosophy to dismantel colonialism, apartheid and dictatorships. This article briefly describes the impact Gandhi still has on the world 72 years after his assassination.
NB: This article was submitted for publishing in November 2019, a month before young people in universities across India woke up to protest against a discriminatory law in the style and manner of a Gandhian 'satyagraha'. This fact alone is a welcome corrective to my negative impression expressed in the introductory part of the article.

Live Encounters, 2019

To conclude the 150th year of Gandhi's birth, this brief article highlights the great regard and ... more To conclude the 150th year of Gandhi's birth, this brief article highlights the great regard and admiration (Saint) Pope John Paul II had for the Mahatma. It places on record his efforts to promote Gandhi's 'Satyagraha' among members of the "Solidarność", the Movement that freed Poland from Communist rule.
Published also in «Gandhi Marg» 41/4 (2020) pp 465-472.

Live Encounters , 2019

In the 150th year since Gandhi's birth, this article commemorates the 'Live Encounter' of (Saint)... more In the 150th year since Gandhi's birth, this article commemorates the 'Live Encounter' of (Saint) Pope Paul VI with the Mahatma through the latter's value-laden legacy of writings and sterling example of 'right against might'.
Also published in 'Gandhi Marg' vol 40/1-2, 2018, 91-96.
https://gandhimargjournal.org/2018/04/05/volume-40-issue-12-april-september-2018/

This paper makes the case for a revival of Peace Education in India today. It begins with a prese... more This paper makes the case for a revival of Peace Education in India today. It begins with a presentation of the key concepts of Johan Galtung’s peace theory and throws light on the pioneering role played by Indian saints and reformers in promoting personal and socio-political peace on a global scale. The reader is then acquainted with reliable national and international surveys on peace in India in recent years, as well as with the disconcerting rise in violence on many fronts with grave consequences for the future of India’s children. As a response, the author argues for the urgency of peace education in schools and non-formal educational settings. To avoid any further delay, he proposes that 'Exercises in Peace Education' (2018), a free online and updated version of the ready-to-use 2003 manual tailored for South Asian youth from ages 5 to 17, be put to good use once again.

'Clothing for Liberation' is also translated into Hindi and Marathi by Sage-Bhasha, India.

'Khadi: Mega Symbol...' is also translated into Hindi and Marathi by Sage-Bhasha, India.

Sage-Bhasha, 2018

SVTANTRTA KE LIYE PARIDHAN

Tej-Prasarini (Light-Spreader), 2018

Divyadaan 35/2 (2024) 267-272

Divyadaan, 2021

PAPA FRANCISCO Y GANDHI: 5 CLAVES DE LIDERAZGO CON EL EJEMPLO (link)

aleteia.org (spanish)

Mysterion, Rivista di Ricerca in Teologia Spirituale, ANNO 13 NUMERO 2 , 2020

The Examiner, 2001

The Examiner, 1990

EduFocus, Archdiocesan Board of Education, Mumbai, India , 2019

Live Encounters, 2019

Live Encounters , 2019

Don Bosco's Peace Culture, 2022

Peter GONSALVES, Don Bosco’s peace culture. A theory-based study of his response to conflicts. (=... more Peter GONSALVES, Don Bosco’s peace culture. A theory-based study of his response to conflicts. (= CSDB – Studi e Strumenti, 6). Roma, LAS 2022, 441 pages.
Antonino DRAGO was professor of History of Physics at the University of Naples (1986-2004) and former President of the Interministerial Committee for a Civil, Unarmed and Nonviolent Defense. He received the prestigious National Prize for the Culture of Peace in 2000 and is the author of several books. He is currently President of a commission for a Culture of Peace that finances research on issues that promote nonviolence. https://antoninodrago.com

Tej-Prasarini, 1996

The authors (Albano Fernandes, Kennedy Saldanha, Ian Doulton, Lionel Braganza, Nelson Carvalho & ... more The authors (Albano Fernandes, Kennedy Saldanha, Ian Doulton, Lionel Braganza, Nelson Carvalho & Peter Gonsalves), as members of an international educational society called Salesians of Don Bosco, are proficient in youth work and have at various times lived and worked with young people of different age-groups, socio-economic backgrounds, creeds and cultures. This book is a compendium of practical methodologies for youth leadership culled from the storehouse of their vast and varied experiences.
Publisher: Tej-prasarini, Don Bosco Communications, Matunga, Mumbai, India.
Year: 1996, Pages: 207
Email: <tej_dbc@vsnl.net>

A teachers' manual to develop a critical understanding of communication and mass media through 95... more A teachers' manual to develop a critical understanding of communication and mass media through 95 lessons, 'Exercises in Media Education' is essential, systematic and fun. It wears its research and erudition lightly and strikes a blow at several ills. It fits well into schoolwork where this kind of stimulus could do lasting good but is usually absent. It provides a simple, hard-to-find framework for an understanding of the media, for study and discussion of the subject beyond the classroom and for that most important of requirements, responsible participation in the use of media. (Gerson da Cunha, Ex-Communication Executive in UNICEF)
Publisher: Tej-prasarini, Don Bosco Communications, Matunga, Mumbai, India.
Year: 1994/1999, Pages: 206, ISBN 81-87060-10-7,
Email: <tej_dbc@vsnl.net>

A silver jubilee tribute to the pioneers of the Salesian Province of Bombay comprising four parts... more A silver jubilee tribute to the pioneers of the Salesian Province of Bombay comprising four parts: the historical beginnings, the leaders, the situation of the province in 1998 (the year of publication) and good wishes for the road ahead.
"The vision, the plans, the anxieties, the toil, the supplication, the expectation, the sacrifices, the sorrows, the joys - all experiences integral to any foundational enterprise, can never be adequately enshrined within the pages of a history book. Faith and devotion as motivating forces that have kept men at their post in creative fidelity day after dreary day, through the 70 years of labour in this western part of India and 25 years of the Bombay Salesian Province, are, once again, incalculable and elude documentation. Many who laid the foundations have expired. Few are still alive. It is to them - our pioneers, our leaders, our benefactors, our aged, our departed - to them that we dedicate this work - a symbol of our sincere LOVE, ESTEEM AND GRATITUDE." (From the Introduction)

Divyadaan, Journal of Philosophy & Education

While much has been written on the preventive dimension of Don Bosco's educational method, its ex... more While much has been written on the preventive dimension of Don Bosco's educational method, its expressive, communicative aspects need to be brought into greater relief, especially in a time when communication technologies – with young people as protagonists – are fast converging our cultures and altering the ways we think, live and socialize. In January 2012, 'DIVYADAAN Journal of Philosophy & Education' published a set of articles by authors willing to write on themes related to Salesian Expressive Education. The catalyst that triggered their reflections was an article published a year earlier in the same journal called “Don Bosco’s ‘Expressive’ System, An alternative perspective for a communication age”. This web-book in a PDF format brings together both publications: the reflections in Chapters 1-7, and the original article in the Appendix.

Don Bosco is popularly admired and known around the globe as a saint, priest, ‘father, friend and... more Don Bosco is popularly admired and known around the globe as a saint, priest, ‘father, friend and teacher of youth’. This book investigates, perhaps for the first time, the peace traits he imbibed and nurtured and the peace culture he displayed. To confirm the validity of this curious yet unique choice, the author adopts an unconventional approach with three separable yet interconnected research trends. The first presents Don Bosco’s peace response to twenty conflicts in his own life. The second widens the popular understanding of peace to embrace the scientifically accepted notion proposed by Johan Galtung and to test participant perceptions about Don Bosco’s peace traits. The final study, the major part of the book, explores the personal, social, political, cultural and transcendental aspects of Don Bosco’s peace culture, thereby highlighting its universal and ever-relevant applicability.
(17X24 cms, pp. 470, €29,00)
www.editricelas.it

Some dreams never die. They take on a life of their own, becoming part of our consciousness, shap... more Some dreams never die. They take on a life of their own, becoming part of our consciousness, shaping our aspirations, and transforming our lives. Dr. A. BJ. Abdul Kalam (1931-2015), former President of India, puts it differently: "A dream is not that which you see while sleeping; it is something that does not let you sleep [until you accomplish your dream|\."" St. John Bosco (1815-1888) had such a dream at the age of nine. According to the Biographical Memoirs, he was loved by his companions and often acted as a peacemaker when conflicts arose.' So it was not surprising that on the night of his famous dream, he found himself surrounded by a group of scruffy kids who were fighting and using abusive language. He lunged into their midst, striking out with his fists 1 "Advancing Salesian Education" suggests exploring new ways to implement, interpret, and expand the application of Salesian educational methods in contemporary settings, with an emphasis on fostering peace, nonviolence, and holistic development. The term "Salesian" comes from St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622), who inspired St. John Bosco. 2. Abdul Kalam, Dr Kalam Quotes, ocument/435342673/Dr-kal amquotes-pdf, 3. 3.

Don Bosco's Peace Culture, 2022

Peter GONSALVES, Don Bosco’s peace culture. A theory-based study of his response to conflicts. (=... more Peter GONSALVES, Don Bosco’s peace culture. A theory-based study of his response to conflicts. (= CSDB – Studi e Strumenti, 6). Roma, LAS 2022, 441 pages.
Antonino DRAGO è stato professore di Storia della Fisica presso l'Università di Napoli (1986-2004) ed ex Presidente del Comitato Interministeriale per una Difesa Civile, Non Armata e Non Violenta. Ha ricevuto il prestigioso Premio Nazionale Cultura della Pace nel 2000 ed è autore di diversi libri. Attualmente è Presidente di una commissione per una Cultura di Pace che finanzia la ricerca su temi che promuovono la nonviolenza. https://antoninodrago.com

Journal of Salesian Studies XX, vol 1, Jan-June, p. 177, 2023

Guglielmo Malizia, the author of this review is Professor Emeritus at the Salesian University, Ro... more Guglielmo Malizia, the author of this review is Professor Emeritus at the Salesian University, Rome. His expertise is in the Sciences of Education and held the Chair of Sociology and Politics in the Faculty of Education.

From a Dream to a Legacy , 2025

In this article, the author synthesizes thirty years of reflection on making Don Bosco's educatio... more In this article, the author synthesizes thirty years of reflection on making Don Bosco's educational method relevant to contemporary times and diverse contexts. Starting with an analysis of the 'Dream at Nine' and the formulation of the 'Preventive System', he broadens the discussion to encompass the hermeneutics of expressive education, the System’s applicability in non-Christian settings, and the pressing need for a culture of peace through peace education.
----------------
Jacob Palaparambil (Ed.), "From a Dream to a Legacy, Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Don Bosco's Dream at the Age of Nine", Published by Written Words, Delhi, (for Divyadaan: Salesian Institute of Philosophy), 2025, pp. 155-168.

Divyadaan, 35/2 pages 231-248, 2024

This article is a gist of a study running into 470 pages that makes bold to investigate the life ... more This article is a gist of a study running into 470 pages that makes bold to
investigate the life and work of St. John Bosco from a unique peace
perspective. To confirm the validity of the outcome, the author adopts the
sociological theory of Johan Galtung to engage in three research trends. The first is a historical evaluation of Don Bosco8s behaviour in times of conflict, crisis and trial. The second widens the popular understanding of peace to test participant perceptions of his peace traits and to reinterpret his educational method for our times. The final and major part of the book explores in rich detail the extensive personal, social, political, cultural and transcendental dimensions thereby throwing into relief the universal and ever-relevant applicability of Don Bosco's peace culture.

RASSEGNA CNOS , 2023

Questo articolo è una sintesi del libro "Don Bosco's Peace Culture" scritto appositamente per il ... more Questo articolo è una sintesi del libro "Don Bosco's Peace Culture" scritto appositamente per il mondo non anglofono. Con più di 400 pagine, è pubblicato da LAS, Roma, e co-pubblicato da Kristu Jyoti Publishers, Bangalore, India.

This unpublished paper consists of a random list of areas essential to the expression-prevention ... more This unpublished paper consists of a random list of areas essential to the expression-prevention dialectic in Don Bosco's Way (of educating young people for a happy life). It is the result of a personal brainstorming on pointers or proposals for further reflection and study, and a response to requests from participants of the course on the DBWAY (www.dbway.in).

The Examiner, 2004

A six-part guide to practising Don Bosco's Educational Method at home.

A media analysis of websites to determine criteria for the creation of a website of an internatio... more A media analysis of websites to determine criteria for the creation of a website of an international organization called Salesians of Don Bosco. An action research involving young members, presented in fulfilment of the 'British Film Institute Education' and 'Open University MA Certificate in Media Education', UK.

Salesianum, 2020

This article explores a wide range of issues linked to the central theme: the use of the smartpho... more This article explores a wide range of issues linked to the central theme: the use of the smartphone in the period of early formation of candidates intending to join the Salesians of Don Bosco. It begins with a brief presentation of the growth of the Internet and highlights some of its social consequences. It looks back at the founder's attitude to technological change, and examines the Salesian documentation already available on social communication. A mini opinion poll among members of an international group of young religious and priests accustomed to smartphone-use helps to concretize the dilemma, while the Salesian World Coucillors of Communication and Formation are invited to share their views. The article concludes by providing some guidelines for the formation of candidates to Salesian consecrated life in a globally networked society.

Divyadaan , 2018

In an earlier article, Paolo Gambini (Italian psychologist and Salesian of Don Bosco) had empiric... more In an earlier article, Paolo Gambini (Italian psychologist and Salesian of Don Bosco) had empirically demonstrated the correlation that exists between the concept of the self and the search for meaning in adolescence. He had partly anticipated what he investigates through this article: the theory underpinning the search for meaning, in as much as it is the motivational dynamism that unifies, guides and supports the construction of identity. He believes it is important to continue the reflection on the relationship that exists between these two factors because of their pivotal role in the development of adolescence. The novelty of this present study is the theoretical perspective that combines the contribution of social psychology with that of dynamic psychology by highlighting how the journey towards the search for identity and meaning moves most of the time at an implicit rather than self-conscious level. This article is translated from the Italian by Peter Gonsalves.

Les intuitions pédagogiques de Don Bosco, Sous la direction de Guy Avanzini, Chronique Sociale, Lyon, , 2016

Cette contribution est une tentative pou r retracer l' histo ire de l'application du sys tème pré... more Cette contribution est une tentative pou r retracer l' histo ire de l'application du sys tème préventi f de Don Bosco au cours des 110 an s de la présence des sa lésiens en Inde. En commençant par les grands défis de la multi-cultura lité dans le sou s-continent , elle explore l' évo lution et l'expansion du système préventif à travers les étapes de l'implantation, de l'adaptation et de la réinterprétation. Les salésiens de Don Bosco sont arriv és en Inde en 1906. Le P. Geor$es Tomatis dirigeait la premi ère communauté à Th anjavoor, dan s l'actuel Etat de Tamil Nadu. Ils avaient la charge d 'un orphelinat, d ' une école et d 'une paroisse.i" En 1922, un second groupe de salésiens arriva à Shillong et ava it pou r mission d 'évangéli ser la rég ion de l'Assam. On leur confia la charge de deux orph elinats, qui atteignirent très vite le nombre de sept. Le ur responsable était le père Loui s Mathias , un visionnaire et un homme d 'une audace singulière. Il devint préfet apos tolique de l'Assam cett e même an-née et, quatre ans plu s tard, supérieur de tou s les salésien s en Inde. 236 Sans tard er, il proj eta d 'établir une forte présence salésienn e dans trois villes, à partir desquelles il en visageait l'expansion salésienne tout autour. Il cher-cha d 'abord à s'établir à Calcutta, où il commença les activités en 1926. 237 L' une des raiso ns du choix de Calcutta était le fait d ' être l' ancienn e capitale des Indes Britanniques jusqu'en 1912, et la ville la plu s peuplée. Ma is il y avait aussi une moti vation plus profonde: faire en sor te que le rêve de Don Bosco en 1886 à Barce lone-" devienn e une réalité. En 1928, il lança éga le

Don Bosco’s Way (DBWAY) is a teachers' manual that presents the educational method of St. John Bo... more Don Bosco’s Way (DBWAY) is a teachers' manual that presents the educational method of St. John Bosco to the multi-religious, multi-cultural population of South Asia and beyond. It offers educators the concepts, themes, attitudes and skills that are essential to understanding his 'way' currently practised in over 2000 youth development institutions throughout the world.

This article is an attempt to trace the practice of Don Bosco’s Preventive System through the 110... more This article is an attempt to trace the practice of Don Bosco’s Preventive System through the 110 years of the Salesian presence in India. Beginning with the daunting challenges of the vast multicultural subcontinent, the author explores the evolution and expansion of the System through the stages of implantation, adaptation and reinterpretation.

Vidyajyoti Journal of Theological Reflection, 2023

This is the SECOND part of the article, which takes its cue from the Greek word parrhesia – to bo... more This is the SECOND part of the article, which takes its cue from the Greek
word parrhesia – to boldly speak the truth – which, when
Christianized with charity, is one of the principal concerns of the
Pope’s Message for World Communications Day, 2023. In the
first part, the author journeys back in time to understand the term’s
original context. This is followed by a recounting of some soul-
stirring spiritual experiences of the disciples in proclaiming the
Gospels, leading to persecution and martyrdom even as individuals
and communities harken to Christ’s call. In the second part, the
author discusses Gandhian Satyagraha (strategic nonviolent truth-
force) which widens the meaning and application of parrhesia to
socio-political transformation on a national and international scale.
A selection of two historical models for each of the two parts, and
a conclusion of three recent papal documents, will help confirm
the relevance and need for prophets today.

Vidyajyoti Journal of Theological Reflection, 2023

This is the FIRST part of the article that takes its cue from the Greek word parrhesia – to bold... more This is the FIRST part of the article that takes its cue from the Greek
word parrhesia – to boldly speak the truth – which, when
Christianized with charity, is one of the principal concerns of the
Pope’s Message for World Communications Day, 2023. In the
first part, the author journeys back in time to understand the term’s
original context. This is followed by a recounting of some soul-
stirring spiritual experiences of the disciples in proclaiming the
Gospels, leading to persecution and martyrdom even as individuals
and communities harken to Christ’s call. In the second part, the
author discusses Gandhian Satyagraha (strategic nonviolent truth-
force) which widens the meaning and application of parrhesia to
socio-political transformation on a national and international scale.
A selection of two historical models for each of the two parts, and
a conclusion of three recent papal documents, will help confirm
the relevance and need for prophets today.

FABC, 2020

An online-presentation for the 25th Annual Meeting of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference... more An online-presentation for the 25th Annual Meeting of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference (FABC), Manila, November 19 to 20, 2020 on the theme: Covid Pandemic: Implications for Christian Communication.

Here is a list of important elements to consider when drawing up a Communication Plan for a Dioce... more Here is a list of important elements to consider when drawing up a Communication Plan for a Diocese. It was presented at the 'Seminar for New Bishops’ organized by the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples in Rome, on 17 September 2016. The number of Bishop who attended were 94. Forty-two were from 19 countries in Africa; 36 from 9 states in Asia; 12 from 9 countries of America; and 4 from 2 nations of Oceania. (Source: fides.org) The list is not meant to be exhaustive.

I germogli della Buona notizia, Comunicare speranza e fiducia nel nostro tempo (Editors: Vittorio Sammarco, Simonetta Blasi, et. al.), LAS, Roma, 2017, pp. 27-46.

A conference to Bishops on how the Catholic Church used media from Jesus to Francis, and how the ... more A conference to Bishops on how the Catholic Church used media from Jesus to Francis, and how the media in turn shaped the Church through the two millennia of its existence.

Vidyajyoti Journal of Theological Reflection, Volume 79/6, June 2015, pp. 405-423

This study is an attempt to show the inherent link between Pope Francis’ linguistic style and his... more This study is an attempt to show the inherent link between Pope Francis’ linguistic style and his thinking. It is based on the Conceptual Metaphor Theory of George Lakoff and Mark Johnson, authors of the seminal work, 'Metaphors We Live By'.

Salesianum 76 (2014) 529-536, Dec 1, 2014

This brief article concentrates on the media stories of Pope Francis' nonverbal communication and... more This brief article concentrates on the media stories of Pope Francis' nonverbal communication and modestly interprets them in the light of Marshall McLuhan’s famed, ‘The medium is the message’.

JESUITS – THE GANDHIAN WAY?

In pursuit of a probable Gandhian influence on Pope Francis, the author of the book "Gandhi and t... more In pursuit of a probable Gandhian influence on Pope Francis, the author of the book "Gandhi and the Popes - from Pius XI to Francis", was drawn to explore the impact of Gandhi’s life and teaching on Indian Jesuits in the last quarter of the twentieth century. As ancillary research, some of the findings presented here would require further investigation and elaboration - which is why this article appears among the appendices of the above mentioned book published by Peter Lang in 2015. To view the book, kindly access the link:
https://www.peterlang.com/view/9783653975147/appendix8.html?rskey=Xu81wJ&result=1

Divyadaan, Journal of Philosophy & Education, 2019

A review of the book "Gandhi and the Popes - from Pius XI to Francis" (Peter Lang Publications, F... more A review of the book "Gandhi and the Popes - from Pius XI to Francis" (Peter Lang Publications, Frankfurt, 2015) by Peter Gonsalves, author of two other books on Mahatma Gandhi: "Clothing for Liberation" (Sage, 2010) and "Khadi: Gandhi's Mega Symbol of Subversion" (Sage, 2012).

'The Catholic Historical Review', 2017

Review of 'Gandhi and the Popes - from Pius XI to Francis' by Mario Prayer, in 'The Catholic Hist... more Review of 'Gandhi and the Popes - from Pius XI to Francis' by Mario Prayer, in 'The Catholic Historical Review', Volume 103, Number 2, Spring 2017
pp. 364-365 | 10.1353/cat.2017.0089.

Review of "Gandhi and the Popes" by J. Scheuer s.j, in "Nouvelle revue théologique" 138/3 (2016).

Book Review of 'Gandhi and the Popes - From Pius XI to Francis'

Esce l'ultimo lavoro di Peter Gonsalves, docente di Edu-comunicazione e Comunicazione Internazion... more Esce l'ultimo lavoro di Peter Gonsalves, docente di Edu-comunicazione e Comunicazione Internazionale presso la FSC, 'Gandhi e i Papi. Da Pio XI a Francesco' edito da Peter Lang. Uno studio che è la prosecuzione ideale dei precedenti saggi pubblicati dallo stesso autore sul capo spirituale e politico dell'India (Clothing for Liberation, SAGE, 2010; Gandhi's Mega Symbol of Subversion, SAGE, 2012).

Review of 'Gandhi and the Popes'

Tridip Suhrud: 'The Caravan'

That clothes are tell-tale is well known. They can reveal as much as they conceal. That they can ... more That clothes are tell-tale is well known. They can reveal as much as they conceal. That they can be both the medium and the message is less well known. Peter Gonsalves has written, and Sage has published, a book intriguingly titled Clothing for Liberation: A Communication Analysis of Gandhi's Swadeshi Revolution. No obvious photograph on the cover of Gandhiji bare-chested in the trademark hipster dhoti. Instead we have a photo-journalist's shot of civil disobedience in the 1930s. A sari-clad woman, in a floppy blouse of the era, stares wide-eyed and defiant at an inspector of police in Bombay.

From being referred to as the "Livery of Freedom" by the Mahatma and "Clothing for Liberation" by... more From being referred to as the "Livery of Freedom" by the Mahatma and "Clothing for Liberation" by a more contemporary writer Peter Gonsalves to being an unprofitable commercial venture, khadi has indeed come a long way. Although its form, from being rough 'khaddar' has definitely improved, its essence and impact, unfortunately, has declined. This year, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, khadi will not be available at discounted rates to customers. The Central government has ordered the withdrawal of current rebate of 20 per cent on khadi in order to reform the existing subsidy patterns.

posits that Gandhi's communication style-through dress, daily interactions, and speechessublimina... more posits that Gandhi's communication style-through dress, daily interactions, and speechessubliminally united an Indian nation. The author builds on works by Roland Barthes on semiology (Systeme de la Mode), Victor Turner on comparative symbology (The Anthropology of Performance), and Erving Goffman on symbolic interaction theory (The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life). Gonsalves' book suggests why linkage of the three theories is necessary to fully understand Mahatma Gandhi's Swadeshi Movement and how this understanding, in turn, leads to what he calls "Gandhian Symbolisation."

Clothing for Liberation is an explosive book. It investigates the communicative power of Gandhi's... more Clothing for Liberation is an explosive book. It investigates the communicative power of Gandhi's style of dressing and use of khadi for staging a revolution involving over 300 million people. The author, Peter Gonsalves, demonstrates the importance of a non-verbal communication perspective on Gandhi's sartorial choices of spinning and wearing khadi, the symbolic force behind it, and its role in forging Indian unity, empowerment and independence.

This slim book seems to be the outcome of a well-meaning attempt to understand thoroughly the com... more This slim book seems to be the outcome of a well-meaning attempt to understand thoroughly the communicative aspect of Gandhiji's personality and politics. Much energy has obviously gone into the enterprise; the many tables, appendix, the pages of endnotes at the end of each chapter as well as the long bibliography are a result of some fairly extensive research. Gonsalves is interested in studying the aspect of non-verbal communication in the making of Gandhi's political impact, with particular emphasis on clothes: the bare minimum that Gandhi used.

Books on India's freedom movement are still of topical interest. Authors have not ceased to explo... more Books on India's freedom movement are still of topical interest. Authors have not ceased to exploit every opportunity to write about this momentous event in the history of the subcontinent. But no leader of the freedom movement has occupied so much space on bookshelves as the enigmatic Mahatma Gandhi. Scholars have ventured into all areas of research to uncover the secret to the success of the phenomenon called Gandhi, which shook the foundations of the mighty British empire. Interestingly, the book under review delves into an unexplored area of research. It unravels the unconventional methods of the frail, scantily clad leader who changed the lives of millions of people in the subcontinent.

Keeping don Bosco's educational method alive in India: 1906-2016

The nonverbal revolution of Pope Francis (by courtesy of the Media and McLuhan)

Khadi: Gandhi's Mega Symbol of Subversion

Foreword - John S Moolakkattu Introduction I : SUBVERTING THE SELF The Passion to Be an 'Engl... more Foreword - John S Moolakkattu Introduction I : SUBVERTING THE SELF The Passion to Be an 'English Gentleman' (1869-1891) In Search of Sartorial Significance (1892-1913) 'Unclothing' of the Mahatma (1914-1948) II: ECO-POLITICAL SUBVERSION The Rape of India Gandhi's Eco-political Subversion Controversy III: PSYCHO-CULTURAL SUBVERSION Inferiorisation of the People Gandhi's Psycho-cultural Subversion Controversy IV: SOCIO-RELIGIOUS SUBVERSION-UNTOUCHABILITY India's Shame Gandhi's Socio-religious Subversion-Untouchability Controversy V: SOCIO-RELIGIOUS SUBVERSION-MILITANCY India's Schism Gandhi's Socio-religious Subversion-Militancy Controversy VI: THE PHILOSOPHY OF GANDHIAN SUBVERSION THROUGH KHADI Foundational Principles of Gandhian Subversion The Metaphysics of Khadi Conclusion Appendix Glossary of Sanskrit and Indian Vocabulary Timeline of Gandhi and the Swadeshi Movement Index

Gandhi and the Popes: From Pius XI to Francis

Contents: Gandhi unable to meet Pius XI - Popes praise Gandhi - Pope Francis' communication r... more Contents: Gandhi unable to meet Pius XI - Popes praise Gandhi - Pope Francis' communication revolution - Gandhi and Bergoglio on religion - Gandhi influenced by Christ? - Pope Francis influenced by Gandhi? - Appendix containing Popes' writings on Gandhi - Being Jesuit the Gandhian Way.

Don Bosco called his pedagogical experience the "preventive system" in his effort to id... more Don Bosco called his pedagogical experience the "preventive system" in his effort to identify his educational method, to show that it was in keeping with his times, and to disassociate it from the "repressive system" which he abhorred. In this article we ask ourselves if this choice made about 150 years ago appeals to the men and women of our twenty-first century who are unacquainted with Salesian discourse. Does the formula express the full richness of Don Bosco's educational intuition? Are there newer metaphors by which his method can be simultaneously relevant today and faithful to his original spirit? This is the concern at the heart of the paper. It investigates the history and debate underpinning the traditional "preventive system" terminology. It proposes new metaphors by which to reframe, rethink and research Don Bosco's pedagogy for our times.

Not with blows. A study of don Bosco's place in the history of nonviolent education

This article highlights Don Bosco's place in the history of nonviolent education. It cont... more This article highlights Don Bosco's place in the history of nonviolent education. It contrasts Don Bosco’s educational approach with the excessively repressive methods that were common practice before and during his time.

This is the first of the two articles on Gandhi’ s Swadeshi Movement. It deals with his sartorial... more This is the first of the two articles on Gandhi’ s Swadeshi Movement. It deals with his sartorial choices involving the organization of persons, objects and events that strategically dethroned a proud empire, liberated a subservient people and ultimately decolonised the world.

Goffman: Gandhi as Performance Manager of a Nation

Clothing for Liberation: A Communication Analysis of Gandhi's Swadeshi Revolution, 2010

Turner: Social Drama in Gandhi's Swadeshi Revolution

Clothing for Liberation: A Communication Analysis of Gandhi's Swadeshi Revolution, 2010

The nonverbal revolution of Pope Francis (by courtesy of the Media and McLuhan)

Salesianum, 2014

DON BOSCO'S'EXPRESSIVE' SYSTEM: An alternative perspective for a communication age

Salesianum, 2009

Résumé/Abstract Don Bosco called his pedagogical experience the" preventive system&q... more Résumé/Abstract Don Bosco called his pedagogical experience the" preventive system" in his effort to identify his educational method, to show that it was in keeping with his times, and to disassociate it from the" repressive system" which he abhorred. In this article we ask ...

Johnny Bosco's communication competence: a theory-guided study of Don Bosco's autobiographical anecdotes, 1825-1835

Salesianum, 2015

Based on the premise that the effectiveness of educators is intrinsically linked to their compete... more Based on the premise that the effectiveness of educators is intrinsically linked to their competence as communicators, the author sets out to analyse the early life of Don Bosco through the autobiographical 'Memoirs of the Oratory'. He identifies six communication skills and three personality traits which are examined under the lens of various theories from the social sciences. Through this exercise, he demonstrates how the 'communication competence' of the young Johnny Bosco was an essential foundation for the prolific communication activity of the future priest-educator, founder-saint and friend of youth.

Khadi : Gandhi's mega symbol of subversion

Gandhi and the Popes

Studien zur interkulturellen Geschichte des Christentums / Etudes d'histoire interculturelle du christianisme / Studies in the Intercultural History of Christianity, 2014

Clothing for Liberation: A Communication Analysis of Gandhi's Swadeshi Revolution