An octagonal delight

The Shrine of Our Lady of Health in Khairtabad has built a reputation for itself over the years. One of the biggest octagonal churches in the country, the church houses the statue of Mother Mary as ‘Our Lady of Health’ on one side of the octagon.

The alter is set up in the middle with pews facing it. The construction of the chapel was started in May 1903 and completed by the end of December of the same year.

It was, however, consecrated by Bishop Vigano in January 1904 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the declaration of the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception.

According to Fr Passoni, the first Parish Priest of the church, ‘The Chapel was originally known as the ‘Church of Our Lady of Divine Grace’.

A sum of Rs 1,028 and 13 Annas was the contribution received from different people, including Rs 5 from Bishop Vignao and Rs 5 from Fr Vimara towards the construction of the Chapel, though the actual cost of construction was Rs 3,500.’

The Vestry, attached to the church, was built later by late Fr Cantaluppi during Fr Pagani’s tenure as Parish Priest of St Joseph cathedral.

Every year, the birth anniversary of Mother Mary is celebrated in a grand fashion at the shrine. The event sees a congregation in thousands from different faiths.

The celebrations begin with flag hoisting on August 29, after which a Novena to Our Lady Of Health is held in the evenings, when a parish from Hyderabad or Secunderabad comes to host the Holy Mass.

Till date the shrine is considered to become a pilgrimage centre during September. A carnival like atmosphere adorns the streets that lead up to the church on the day of the feast.

People wear peach-orangish attire which is said to be the colour for the occasion.