Dear Friends,

The way successive generations of students of St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata have maintained their relationship with the alma mater, giving rise to one of the most vibrant and exemplary Alumni movements is indeed commendable. It is indeed a pleasure to be a part of this thriving, growing organisation as it spreads its wings to different parts of the world.

The Alumni is not merely about bringing Xaverians together for a cause. It is also about spreading the light, about bringing into sharper focus the value system that we espouse – men and women for others, living embodiments of the spirit of Nihil Ultra: nothing beyond.

Needless to say, “We Xaverians” – the alumni vanguard – is a key constituent of this noble effort of spreading the word. With the world getting increasingly connected and communication attaining the speed of thought, the print media, some feel is becoming increasingly obsolete. Yet the charm of the printed word continues to caste its spell and I am sure that the current issue will not only be an interesting and engrossing read, but will also be equally thought provoking.

These are indeed exciting times for all of us and the Alumni/ae Association has not only grown in size and commitment but has also initiated a series of programmes that are set to transform the face of the college in keeping with the needs of the day. As the mouthpiece of the movement, if We Xaverians is successful in becoming the platform for Xaveriens around the world to communicate and combine their talents and resources for the common good, it would have commendably performed its duties.

The Alumni timeline, which not only records the various past efforts by the alumni but also has lessons for the future is one such effort and I am sure that over time, more and more Xaverians will come forward with their contributions to make the magazine a collector’s item, to be read and preserved.

With warm regards and blessings

Rev. Father Dr. J. Felix Raj, S J

President, SXCCAA

Principal, St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata   

The Healing Balm

– Yogesh Chopra

Philanthropy is the altruistic concern for the less fortunate, a means of reaching out to share their woes and to touch lives. At SXCCAA, we have, since our inception, woven our activities around a philanthropic core, for we pride ourselves as men and women for others.

This year too was no exception and we reached out to a number of areas which we felt needed us. The St.Xavier's school, Gurap, run by Jesuit fathers helped us to provide the children with school uniforms, stationary and other play equipments like two four seater see-saw's, slides, carom boards, badminton sets, footballs, cricket sets etc.

The three extension centers run in collaboration with NSS were provided with steel almirahs for use in their offices. The bonds with the Aila affected village of Bholakhali, adopted by us, was further strengthened when we provided the local school with various sports equipments.

We also presented to the Little Sisters of the Poor a LCD projector for use by the inmates, the old people of the home. This was in addition to the eight wheel chairs provided by us in the last year.

For the Paikhala school, run in collaboration with the NSS, we provided the much needed excise books and other stationary for use by the students.

Prayas, which is a part of the ‘college to village’ initiative, the dream of Rev. Fr. Dr. J.Felix Raj, saw us providing a day's meal to about 450 village children. The other side of the coin, ‘village to college’ also saw enthusiastic participation of members who welcomed the visiting children from Bholakhali and took care of their fooding for a day during their stay in the college.

We are also the proud associates of the NSS and SXC organized “Sishu Mela” for the children of all the centers and villages. Many of our members volunteered and sponsored various items of the goody bags that were given to the children. We are proud of our association and would like to continue the same in the years to come.

We received many pleas for financial help on medical grounds, especially from the college staff and we were happy to meet all of them to the best of our abilities.

The process of handing over the Paikhala School to the Government is on and the statutory compliances are now being met with. Some urgent construction work to save the school building from the vagaries of nature have also be taken up on an urgent basis. The salaries of the school staff have also been raised in keeping with the times. A fresh set of text books will also be provided to the children to replace the existing ones. Distribution of blankets to the needy is also in the agenda. We are also in the process of adding one more class room in the school to meet its growing needs. 

SXCCAA Time Line

1985

125th year Celebration of the College

Formation of St. Xavier's College (Calcutta) Alumni Association

News Letter : WE XAVERIAN started

1986

CREST - Canning Rural Experimental Swimming Training Project launched.

Musical Programme

Songs of the World organised

Nihil Ultra Debate began

1st Reunion Dinner

1987

Fund Raising Programme FUNFEST organised

1988

Scholarship for CREST swimmer

1989

Special Screening of Apu Trilogy 

1990

Annual Dinner & Debate held

1991

Cricket Coaching for students under guidance of Raju Mukherjee & Biswajit Bhowmik

1992

Special Seminar on HIV- AIDS, graced by Mother Teresa, MC

1993

Nihil Ultra Debate also named after Rev. Fr. Paul Joris, SJ

1994

Special debate on contemporary topic held, which became talk of the town

1995

Beyond Barriers – I Fund Raising Cultural Extravaganza started with Ch - I

First Renovation of Room No. 5, SXCCAA Office

1996

Beyond Barriers –II

1997

Sunday Health Check up Programme with Red Cross Clinic started at Sarat Bose Road

X-Quiz-it - First ever Inter Alumni Quiz launched.

1998

Started Dasghara School Project near Tarkeshwar, Hooghly

Beyond Barriers III

1999

Paikhala School Project,  24 Pgs (S) began

SXCCAA’s support towards College Auditorium renovation

2000

Friday Fellowship started -TGIF - Thank God it’s Friday - Weekly Fellowship of the Alumni/ae began

2001

Musical programme  was introduced  at the Annual Reunion dinner with the performance of Usha Uthup 

2002

Paikhala School building at 24 Pgs (S) erected

Beyond Barriers IV

2003

Beyond Barriers -V

Summit of Joy - Third International Conference of Jesuit Alumni/ae

2004

Beyond Barriers- VI

Walk for Tsunami Relief Fund Raising

2005

Beyond Barriers-VII

Launching of Singapore Chapter  

Teachers Day Celebrations began

2006

Beyond Barriers-VIII

Launching of  West Zone Chapter at Mumbai

75 Years Celebrations of Bengali Literary Society

2007

Carrier Fair 

Book Fair

2008

Beyond Barriers-IX

Launching of Bangkok Chapter

Launching of  Delhi Chapter

Fr. Joe D'suja Memorial Cricket Match started

Formation of Women's Forum

2009

Concert for Cyclone Ailah Victims.  Relief  work at Bholakhali village, 24 Pgs. (N)

Launching of Dubai Chapter

Launching of South India Chapter

at Bangalore

Beyond Barriers-X

SXCCAA delegation was the highest in the World Jesuit Alumni/ae Congress held at Burundi, Africa

Opening Ceremony of 150 Yrs celebrations of the College

2010

150 Yrs of SXC

25 Yrs of SXCCAA

Philanthropy Day

Beyond Boundaries-I at Bangkok (1st

Int. Conv. of SXCCAA)

Paikhala School Extension

Film on SXCCAA - Xaverian Always released

Pledging for one floor extension in the Park Street Hostel Building Special scholarship for 1st Generation College goers

2011

Address by  Fr. General to the Alumni/ae

Beyond Boundaries II – Dubai

Beyond Barriers XI

Launching of London Chapter

Publication of Book on Jesuit-Lay Collaboration

Pledging for Twin Tower New Hostel Complex

2nd  Renovation of Room No. 5, SXCCAA Office

2012

Beyond Barriers XII

Inauguration of Bangladesh Chapter

Beyond Boundaries III – Singapore (proposed)

Launching of Theme Song of SXCCAA

Launching of the US Chapter

Our Own Room 5 & Anthony

Dominic Anthony, the man Friday (for more reasons than one) who traces his roots to Andhra Pradesh is a perfect example of everything the alumni stands for. With two sisters married to Muslims, a wife who understands everything but does not rebuke, has his family ties with every possible community (which allows him to celebrate every damn occasion) his life is a perfect example of unity in diversity, we were taught in Xavier's.

An acknowledged singer – legend has it that he and Kumar Shanu started life from the same bar as singers – he regales one and all with his melodious renditions of Rafi Sahaab and Kishore Da's most memorable, given an inebriated chance. He was also a pencil-er in the Calcutta Race Courses, which helps him spot the alumni fore runners with uncanny certainety!

A loving father, an ever willing comrade in arms, Anthony is and will remain a permanent fixture of Room No 5, the Alumni HQ, our Richard Bartron!    

Beyond Boundaries

– Arun Sultania

The world is shrinking at an incredible rate. An increasingly networked, border-less new global order is emerging where actions are literally @ the speed of thought. Can Xaverians let go of this opportunity of embracing the new? Can Xaverians, with presence in all corners of the world, miss out on this chance to network and spread the spirit of Nihil Ultra? From this thought emerged the idea of holding an annual meet of the Global Xaverians – to create a platform for Xaverians from a particular part of the world to congregate, discuss issues of mutual concern, honour the super achievers from within and renew the bonds of fraternity by reaching out to the alma mater.

Thoughts crystallized and Beyond Boundaries was born. The first edition witnessed a strong contingent from Kolkata flying in (with spouses and children in tow) to Bangkok where Harsh Agarwal and his hyper efficient team presented a flawlessly executed event that set the bar. The event was also marked by high voltage performances by a bevy of performing artists who mesmerized the audience with their renditions.

In keeping with the Xaverian spirit, Beyond Boundaries II, had to be bigger and better. What other destination could qualify to host such an event than the miracle city of Dubai, which has the tallest, biggest, largest of everything man made? The Dubai chapter of the SXCCAA rose to the occasion ably led from the front by Navin Agarwal and Pratip Das. The high point of the meet was the pledge taken by assembled Xaverians to buy bricks and help the alma mater build the twin hostels of the college. Apart from some thought provoking discussions on ways and means of taking the alumni movement forward, the event witnessed the conferring of the Global Xaverian Awards to Gautam Mohan Chakravorty, IPS for his dedicated service to the Nation and Pawan Ruia for almost single handedly putting India on the world auto ancillary map.

While the days were spent in intellectual pursuits, the evenings were marked for networking and fellowship highlighted by a series of cultural performances that culminated in a sizzling show in an oasis.

We are now in the process of giving the final touches for the next edition of Beyond Boundaries which will be held in the city state of Singapore. Book the dates in your diaries for we are certain of picking up in Singapore from where we left in Dubai – only to train our eyes on London!   

Beyond All Barriers

– Dharmen Trivedi

SXCCAA has always been a front runner in undertaking various charitable and philanthropic activities thereby challenging its members to pool in their resources and be able to make a purposeful and meaningful contribution towards various causes. The SXCCAA raises funds through various means one of which is the popular musical extravaganza held annually at the SXC ground in the winters christened Beyond Barriers. Over 12000 students, alumni/alumnae, businessmen, corporate executives, industrialists attend this popular event.”Beyond Barriers symbolizes our attempt at moving beyond all barriers of self and greed for power and money,it is the celebration of the spirit of altruism,it is the annual loving tribute of the SXCCAA members to their alma mater.”

Beyond Barriers XII is being organised as the biggest and most spectacular of all times. This edition's highlight will be state of the art lighting and digital sound along with special effects - the kind of which the city has not witnessed. The star performer, Mika who has belted some of the biggest hits of the times is all set to carry the crowd to a frenzy. Xaverians, especially the students of the college are also eagerly awaiting to give him a taste of their participation. Sneha Pant is equally excited to have got the chance to perform before such a responsive crowd. Our own Ram, who has to his credit the distinction of performing the maximum number of times in his home turf, is also promising to belt out numbers that are sure to set the floors on fire.

Come, you have nothing to lose but your inhibitions and a whole new floor to win! Revolution beckons.

SXCCAA Governing Council 2011-12

Rev. Fr Dr. J. Felix Raj, SJ – President

An Economist, an educationist, an able administrator, a life dedicated – there are various facets to his humble and humane nature. He is the guiding spirit, setting the goals and ensuring their achievement, only to raise the bar. If the alumni has come so far, it is because we are fortunate enough to look through the eyes of this visionary.

felixrajsj@gmail.com

G.P.Gupta – Vice President

“GP” as he is fondly known, is associated with the Aviation Industry and is one of the stalwarts of the Kolkata Airport. He is one of the few to possess an all area access pass, which he routinely uses to zap visiting dignitaries to the college. He is also the man behind all the trophies and memento's that we Xaverians so cherish.

gugupta020259@gmail.com

Chandan Roy Chowdhury – Vice President

An old media hand, one half of the “Alumni Twin Towers” he is also the soul of one of the city's popular clubs known for its lush locales. Ever ready to jump into any alumni initiative, he is universally respected for his ability of detailed planning and execution of events.

crcbrccrc@yahoo.com

Arindam Sil – Vice President

An acknowledged film maker and actor, he is one of the most sought after screen personalities for his expressive portrayal and strong directions. An intellectual of the city, he is also acclaimed for his political views acknowledged often as the lone voice of sanity.   

arindamsil@nbcinema.in

Firdausul Hasan – Hon.Secretary

A high networked Individual, he moves seamlessly between leather tanning, event organising and film making, the last being his passion. The big daddy of cool, A Muskil (H)asan, he has the unique distinction of being the Secretary of the College Union and that of the Alumni, such has been his popularity amongst the brethren.

friendscomm_2005@yahoo.com

P.K.Mathur – Assistant Secretary

The taxman's consultant, he has amongst his clients the entire cast of any page 3 of any of the city's dailies. A lawyer and a gentleman with a big heart, he is our man in Wuja – the world body of Jesuit Alumni/ae. A socialite per excellence, he is always the lender of the last resort, wining friends and influencing people by making just a call. He tends the bar when he is not saving others from getting behind it. rajpramo@yahoo.co.in

Vikash Khosla – Assistant Secretary

The "Samrat" of power tillers he is literally the moving spirit the goes beyond barriers and has been associated with various alumni events at various capacities. A team man per excellence, he is the living example of participative management and is acknowledged for his abilities to lead teams achieve, even when odds seem insurmountable.

khoslav@gmail.com

Yogesh Chopra – Assistant Secretary

A fabricator, who thankfully, restricts himself only to Aluminum & Alumni. He is associated with many social associations and spends a good part of his time philanthropically. When not reaching out to touch lives, he plays chess.

cyogi@hotmail.com

Arun Sultania – Treasurer

A strict disciplinarian, he guards the alumni treasures with his life, dedicated to a fault. Such is his love for the work, he spends more time in Room 5, the alumni office than his own, ever ready to sacrifice even his victuals. asultania@hotmail.com

R.R. Modi – Assistant Treasurer

A Chartered Accountant by profession, he is ever busy drawing up the Balance Sheet of life – carefully arranging the assets and the liabilities with a holistic view that transcends everything, including time. Known for his ability to shift the grains from the chaff, he is the quintessential Xaverian who sees nothing beyond (the printed words of the balance sheet!)

rrmodi@gmail.com

Sujata Rampuria – CM

The lone lady member, she is as enigmatic as the sphinx, often the one voice of sanity in the alumni din. An acknowledged designer of costume and fashion jewellery, she is a budding entrepreneur and home maker, mixing and matching the boutique experience with functionality at price points the city's ladies just cannot do withoipsut. 

sujatarampuria@gmail.com

Rajesh Agarwal - Council Member

The world may be going paperless with a vengeance, but rajesh continues to grow and expand in the paper line. The longest serving convener of the President's Birthday (since inception), the paper trail that he has left behind is naturally considerable. Ever ready to do his bit for the alumni, he is another stalwart of the movement, winning friends and influencing Xaverians. creativecorner_2007@yahoo.co.in

Baldev Soni - Council Member

Fondly known as the "jhoom-jhoom" man in alumni circles, Baldev runs a successful business of selling generators (and their spares) and is the spirit that drives the post meeting "fellowships with his inimitable renderings of gazals that mesmerise. 

brjsony@yahoo.com

Joyjeet Biswas – Council Member

Is THE club man of Kolkata, having the rare distinction of being the secretary of DI and IC simultaniously. An insurer by profession, he is a soul dedicated to ensuring that the city dons its best to keep on clubbing in a manner only Calcutta can. Sought after, by all the committees, he is a multiple committee member, wielding his magic wand of managing perfection. He is also a La Marteniere alumnus but like they say, SXC Rules. OK? jayajitbiswas@yahoo.co.in

Chawm Ganguly – Editor

Is a maverick, jaywalking through life.  Poet, dreamer, photographer, writer, corporate communicator – he knows not what his calling is – preferring to flirt from the corporate world to the esoteric in an unending search for excellence. Also known as Suvobrata, prefers remaking Ramayana & Mahabharata with Alumni characters.

editor@corecommunique.com

Prof. Ashish Mitra – Teacher Member

An alumni stalwart himself, he represents the teachers to the alumni - straddling the diverse worlds only to give impetus to the movement. Ever affable and friendly, he is loved by all for his willingness to take part in all alumni initiatives, often guiding us like the teacher that he is.

amitrasxc@gmail.com

Kaushal Nahata – Student Member

The student member in the alumni, Kaushal is the face of the future. He is the general secretary as student's union and is quietly readying to make the move from the college to the movement.

kaushalnahata@gmail.com

Snehasis Sur – Ex Officio (Immediate Past Secretary)

The face of Door Darshan Kolkata, he is one of the most respected names in the world of electronic media. He is dreaded for the prayers through which he takes the alumni / alumnae and is universally loved for his accessibility and respected for the willingness to selflessly serve the cause.

surs@vsnl.com 

Pawan Dalmia  - Ex Officio (Immediate Past Treasurer)

Christened fondly as “chotu”, he is literally the enfant terrible of the movement – and everything he does from the sms' sent out to accounting jugglery, is in bulk. He straddles the software space and hopes to grow up to fill the void left by Steve Jobs.

pawan@nirmalasoftex.com