WHISPERS From The EAST

By Fr Nilora SVD In a world captivated by tales of gothic vampires, where Dracula’s image often springs to mind with his pale visage and sharp teeth, there lies a castle in Ireland with its own fascinating history – Donamon Castle. While there are no vampires lurking within its ancient walls, the castle has seen its share of mysteries and transformations over the centuries. Donamon Castle, nestled in the Irish countryside, is a place where history and legend intertwine. Its story begins long ago, dating back to 1154, as mentioned in the Annals of the Four Masters. The name itself, Donamon, evokes a sense of ancient strength: Dun Lomghuin, the fortress of Lomghuin. Throughout the ages, Donamon Castle witnessed its share of destruction and renewal, a testament to the resilience of its stone walls and the spirit of its inhabitants. Yet, it also harbors a tale of a 19-year vacancy from 1920 to 1939, during which locals believed it was haunted by the ghost of a former bailiff. A shadowy cha

In the vibrant streets of Bristol, I embarked on a journey to visit a sick individual in Elton Road. However, my attention was diverted by the captivating graffiti adorning Princess Row, Dighton Street, Cheltenham Road, and Picton Street. Intrigued by the “smile-inspiring” artworks, I returned the next day with my Nikon to immortalize these urban masterpieces.  Graffiti, often dismissed as mere vandalism, serves as an unfiltered expression of societal nuances. Bristol, home to the renowned artist Banksy, showcases his thought-provoking graffiti at the Bristol Museum. Despite attracting over 230,000 visitors, opinions on Banksy’s work remain divided.  Banksy challenges the traditional art world, stating, “When you go to an art gallery, you are simply a tourist looking at the trophy cabinet of a few millionaires.” This sentiment echoes in his exhibition’s title, “Banksy vs Bristol Museum,” prompting reflection on the role of art in a socio-economic context.  As graffiti emerges as the vo