Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Jan 25: The St Lawrence Church and Shrine proudly hosted Bondel Fiesta 2025, an extraordinary event presented by Rohan Corporation and co-powered by In-Land Infrastructure Developers Pvt Ltd. Held on January 25 and 26, at the scenic grounds of St Lawrence Church, this vibrant celebration transcended the notion of a typical festival. It served as a fundraiser supporting the church’s ongoing projects, blending community spirit, cultural diversity, and charity into an unforgettable experience.
The inauguration of the Fiesta 2025 began with the official unveiling of the challan by Walter Nandalike, managing director of Daijiworld Media Network Pvt Ltd Esteemed guests joined him on stage, including Rehman Kunjathbail, Srinivas Salian, parish priest Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, assistant parish priest Fr William D’Souza, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School Fr Peter Gonsalves, PPC vice president John D'Silva, secretary Santosh Misquith, and event coordinator Manoj Lewis.
In his address, guest of honour Walter Nandalike remarked, “Bondel Fiesta 2025 is a celebration for people of all religions and communities. It embodies the spirit of diversity, demonstrating that despite our differences, we are united as one.” He congratulated the Bondel parish community, clergy, and participants for their collective efforts in promoting unity and harmony.
On January 26, at 6 pm, the formal programme began with a warm welcome by PPC secretary Santosh Misquith, who greeted the dignitaries and attendees. Each guest was honoured with a traditional shawl and the fiesta memento, expressing the community's gratitude and respect.
Distinguished guests, including mayor Manoj Kumar of Mangaluru, Rohan Monteiro, founder & CEO of Rohan Corporation, Ron’s London, Pravin Tauro, marketing head of Daijiworld media, Shahnawaz from Hotel Mandara (Kadri), Raymond Tacode from Pingara, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest, Fr Peter Gonsalves, principal of St Lawrence English Medium School, and Fr William D’Souza, assistant parish priest, participated actively. Other notable attendees included Stany Bela (director, Daijiworld media), Hilda Teacher, Maxim Rodrigues, vice president John D’Silva, PPC secretary Santosh Misquith, and event coordinator Manoj Lewis.
The prize distribution ceremony honoured winners of various competitions, including fancy dress, crawling baby contests, a pet show, football, and the inter-parish competition ‘Kala Sanz’. Cordel parish secured first place, Ukkinadka parish took second, and Urwa parish finished third.
The speeches by dignitaries emphasized unity and community spirit. Mayor Manoj Kumar lauded the fiesta, stating, “This event is not just a celebration; it is a platform that unites people from all religions, fostering harmony and love. Such initiatives should be a year-round endeavour to spread the message of unity.”
Rohan Monteiro applauded Fr Andrew for his vision and his commitment to fostering brotherhood. Fr Andrew emphasized the Christian ethos of love and equality, saying, “Fiesta is an opportunity to meet our brethren, regardless of religion. At the end of the day, we are one, worshipping the same God.”
The competitions, mob dance performances by youth and children, and singing and dancing displays by parishioners added a dynamic energy to the event. These activities captivated the audience, infusing the celebration with enthusiasm and joy.