Media Release

Udupi, Nov 6: The inauguration of 'Samunvaya' Souharda Samithi and inter-religious Deepavali was held at St Ann's Church ground Thottam on November 5. 

Tri-colour helium balloons representing various religions were brought together, tied as a symbol of unity and were released to fly high in the sky. Fr Denis D’Sa, the Parish Priest of Thottam Church gave his introductory remarks placing forward the vision and mission of the committee, that is to foster inter religious dialogue, promoting peace and unity, encouraging collaboration on humanitarian and social projects and to deal with common social issues.

The programme was followed by celebrating Inter-religious Deepavali by hoisting a six-foot height, handmade Gududeepa. The entire programme was presided over by Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi and was graced by Panduranga Rao, chief priest, Durga Parameshwari Temple, Badanidiyuru, Maulana Imran-Ullaq-khan, religious leader Sayyadina Abbubhakar Siddique Masjid, Malpe and lecturer Sudha Murthy K S, Govt Higher Primary school, Badanidiyuru and the local organization heads.

Lecturer Sudha Murthy K S representing the Hindu religion shared a Deepavali message relating it to the present conditions. Maulana Imran-Ullaq-khan on behalf of Muslim community highlighted the need of inter-religious unity to fight against social evils and Bishop Gerald Issac Lobo gave a call to eradicate the darkness of evil and to spread the light of love, hope and charity.

Various cultural organizations of Thottam premises presented cultural programmes and coloured the occasion. Agnel Fernandes the co-ordinator of the committee welcomed and Sunil Fernandes vice president, St Ann's Church thanked the gathering.

The ceremony was compered by Praveen and was witnessed by a crowd of over 500.