Portuguese India – Exposition of St. Francis Xavier

The Exposition of St. Francis Xavier in 1931 was a major religious event held in Goa, to mark the 400th anniversary of St. Francis Xavier’s arrival in Goa (1531). It was one of the largest public displays of his relics, bringing thousands of faithful from India and abroad. The relics were displayed in a silver casket and carried in a grand procession through the streets of Old Goa.

St. Francis Xavier was a Jesuit missionary who played a significant role in spreading Christianity in Asia during the 16th century. He passed away in 1552 on Shangchuan Island (off the coast of China). His body was later moved to Goa, where it remains in the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Over the centuries, periodic public expositions of his relics have taken place, drawing pilgrims from around the world.

The stamps marking the Exposition of St. Francis Xavier were issued on 3rd December 1931. These were designed by Crisnánata Vassú Naique and lithographed at Security Printing Press, Nashik. The stamps were printed on smooth paper and carried a perforation of 14.