CM Mamata renames Short Street to ‘Saint Francis Xavier Sarani’ ahead of Christmas celebrations

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee officially renamed Short Street in Kolkata to ‘Saint Francis Xavier Sarani’ on Thursday, just ahead of Christmas celebrations. The announcement was made during a gathering at St. Xavier's College, marking a tribute to St. Francis Xavier, a prominent 16th-century missionary who played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity across India, particularly in Goa and other regions of the country.

The proposal for the renaming came from Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O’Brien. He emphasized that the decision was made to honor St. Xavier, whose missionary work and establishment of educational institutions in India had a significant influence on the country's religious and cultural landscape. St. Xavier, who arrived in Goa in 1542 as a Jesuit missionary, became one of the most important figures in the history of Christianity in India. His work led to the conversion of many to Christianity and the establishment of several schools, churches, and colleges, many of which are still functioning today.

Following the announcement, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee instructed the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, under the leadership of Mayor Firhad Hakim, to immediately install a nameplate for ‘Saint Francis Xavier Sarani’ at the renamed street. This action is part of the state government’s broader initiative to honor significant historical figures by renaming streets and public spaces in their memory. The renaming of the street to Saint Francis Xavier Sarani is expected to serve as a lasting tribute to the missionary's contribution to education and religious expansion in India.

St. Xavier’s influence is also evident in the numerous educational institutions across India named after him, including St. Xavier's College in Kolkata, one of the country’s premier institutions. The Jesuit missionary's efforts in spreading education among the local population and converting many to Christianity significantly shaped the development of Indian society, particularly in regions like Goa, Kerala, and parts of the northeastern states. His legacy is integral to the history of Christianity in India and its educational infrastructure.

The renaming of Short Street to Saint Francis Xavier Sarani is not only a recognition of St. Xavier’s historical significance but also part of a broader trend in West Bengal to honor figures who have had a lasting impact on the state’s cultural, religious, and educational development. The decision comes at a time when the state is preparing for Christmas celebrations, a season marked by festivities and religious observances across the Christian community in the region.