Having survived the COVID-19 pandemic, Fr. Lourdes has completed 82 years as a Salesian and 72 years as a priest. He was among the first students of Don Bosco School in Liluah, Kolkata, in 1937 and joined the Salesian institute in Sonada in 1941 as a ninth-grade student. On his birthday, he recalled how Bengali was spoken at home, and how he learned English at school. He also shared his deep Marian devotion, instilled in him by his mother, a fervent devotee of Our Lady of Fatima.
Despite early academic struggles—once scoring 0% in mathematics, though balanced by a perfect score in Latin—Fr. Lourdes dedicated himself to independent study and excelled in his exams at the University of Calcutta. His advice to students is simple but powerful: “Attend classes and keep your notes handy.”
Fr. Lourdes was a pioneer in establishing the Department of Psychology at Salesian College, emphasizing the need to combat stigma surrounding mental health issues.
His academic journey is remarkable: a degree from Salesian College Sonada, a master’s in Clinical Psychology from the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome, and a PhD in Clinical Psychology from DePaul University in Chicago. His doctoral research explored the relationship between meditation practices and psychological well-being. After returning to India, he served for over 30 years at the National Institution for Vocational Discernment and Training in Pune. As a renowned clinical psychology consultant, Fr. Lourdes has conducted countless psycho-spiritual workshops and retreats.
An accomplished author, he has written four books, including the well-known The Human Face of Clergy (1989) and The Clash (2016). He is admired for his keen memory and articulate communication.
"For a century, he has been a living testimony of God’s love, inspiring countless lives through his unwavering faith, kindness, and selfless service. His legacy is woven with hope, compassion, and devotion," remarked Fr. George Thadathil, SDB, a former student of Fr. Lourdes and current head of the Salesian Institutions of Higher Education (IUS).
"Fr. Lourdes has influenced many of his generation and younger ones alike. He engages with others without bias, even as he patiently endures any prejudices others may hold. Even at 100, he spends his time in meaningful activities—reading, listening to music, self-care, and staying in deep communion with the divine," added Fr. Thadathil.
"His fearlessness and acceptance of his age allow him to radiate serenity and peace to those who visit him. May he continue to live long, for the benefit of younger Salesians and the laypeople who have known him across the world," concluded the General Coordinator of IUS.
