On September 2, over 4,000 Catholics gathered in the secluded Jamboni jungle to honor the 25th anniversary of Father Arul Das’s tragic death.
The 33-year-old priest from the Balasore Diocese was killed on that fateful day in 1999, when he was shot and struck with arrows in his modest chapel-house.
Remembering a Devoted Shepherd
During the special jubilee Mass, Balasore Bishop Varghese Thottamkara delivered a heartfelt sermon, reflecting on Father Arul’s dedication.
“Father Arul lived his life as closely as possible to Jesus,” Bishop Thottamkara said.
“Just as Jesus was a good shepherd, Father Arul strived to be a shepherd for the people in this region.”
The bishop’s words resonated deeply with those in attendance, including over 50 priests and numerous nuns from various parts of the diocese and beyond.
A Testament to Faith and Sacrifice
Father Arul was remembered as a true martyr who dedicated his life to serving the people of Balasore, particularly the Ho tribe.
“He was a priest of Christ who came to aid the Ho people,” Bishop Thottamkara noted.
“His life and sacrifice are a powerful example for us.
The blood of the martyrs indeed sows the seeds of the Church.”
Father Varghese Puthumattam, who has documented Father Arul’s life, highlighted the growth in the Christian community in Jamboni since Arul’s death.
What started with just 18 Christian families in 1999 has now expanded to over 400 in the mission area.
Challenges and Triumphs of a Missionary Life
Father Arul’s mission work was marked by immense challenges.
Assigned to a remote area with no electricity or proper roads, he learned the Ho language in neighboring Jharkhand and began his work among the tribe.
Despite difficult terrain, he persevered, often carrying bicycles through rocky paths and streams to reach the locals.
“We had to carry even bicycles on our shoulders,” recalled Father Puthumattam, reflecting on their arduous journeys.
Legacy of Faith Amidst Adversity
Father Arul was tragically killed by a gang led by Hindu fundamentalist Dara Singh, who was fleeing after committing multiple murders.
Despite the violence, the faith among the Ho people was profoundly strengthened. Catechist Durga Singh Godsara, one of Arul’s early converts, shared how the martyrdom had solidified Christian faith in the area.
Godsara recalled a fellow convert’s fear of persecution but emphasized their commitment to faith, which led to a miraculous healing and an extended life.
A Living Testament to Martyrdom
Sister Elizabeth Rani of the Congregation of St Anne, who attended the first anniversary in 2000, marveled at the growth of Christianity in Jamboni.
“The transformation over the years has been remarkable,” she said.
In the local Tamil language, ‘Arul’ means ‘blessing,’ and Sister Rani expressed her happiness that Father Arul has become a true blessing to the Ho tribe.
Community Effort and Growing Devotion
The enthusiasm of the local community was evident as they worked tirelessly to prepare a meal for the more than 4,000 attendees.
Father Francis Xavier Singh, vicar of Holy Rosary Parish, highlighted the communal effort and dedication.
Bishop Thottamkara noted a growing devotion to Father Arul, with reports of miraculous healings among the Ho tribe.
The diocese plans to establish committees to document and examine these miracles, exploring how to proceed with these accounts of faith and healing.