The relationship between India and Georgia has taken a significant step forward in recent times. A large part of this progress came about when India recently gifted part of the holy relics of St. Queen Ketevan, a figure from the 17th century, to the Georgian government. This generous donation was made during the inaugural visit of the Indian External Affairs Minister to an independent Georgia.
Georgia, known for its strategic location at the junction of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, treasures this gift owing to the religious and historical significance attached to these relics.
The Historical Importance of Queen Ketevan
Originating from Kakheti, a kingdom located in eastern Georgia, Queen Ketevan is believed to have been martyred in 1624 in Shiraz, modern-day Iran. Her alleged crime was refusal to convert to Islam. Following her demise, in 1627, Augustinian monks transported parts of her remains to Goa.
These relics, excavated in 2005 by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), were discovered amid the ruins of the Church of St. Augustine in Goa. It’s noteworthy that Georgia holds St. Queen Ketevan in high esteem due to the multiple spiritual, religious, and historical sentiments surrounding her.
About the Church of St. Augustine
The Church of St. Augustine, now in ruins, is a historic site situated in Goa. Its construction was completed in 1602 by Augustinian monks who arrived in Goa in 1587. However, following the eviction of many religious orders from Goa under new oppressive policies set in place by the then Portuguese government, the church was abandoned in 1835. The subsequent negligence led to the collapse of the church’s vault in 1842. The Church of St. Augustine forms part of the Churches and convents of Goa, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A Glance at India-Georgia Relationship: A Historical Background
The cultural exchange between India and Georgia can be traced back to fables from India’s Panchatantra that reportedly influenced Georgian folk legends. Such connections were cemented further during the medieval period through interactions with missionaries, travelers, and traders.
India’s Recent Visit to Georgia: An Investment Bellwether
India has expressed its readiness to augment its investment in Georgia, a country renowned for an amicable business environment. Concurrently, Georgia’s application for membership in the EU underscores this commitment. If accepted, it would pave the way for India to establish another entryway to Europe and secure a foothold in the Caucasus region.
This visit also bears political relevance due to the ongoing hostile relations between Russia and Georgia. The trip from India sends a clear message to Russia following the recent visit of the Russian foreign minister to Pakistan, showing India’s displeasure.
Understanding the Caucasus Region
Positioned between the Black Sea (west) and the Caspian Sea (east), the Caucasus is a mountain system and region occupied by Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia.