Pics: Daya Kukkaje

Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal

Bantwal, May 7: The newly built Fatima Mata Community Hall at Mucchirapadavu in Peruvaayi village panchayat limits in Vittal was inaugurated on May 5 with a message of harmony and cooperation. Terming the hall a symbol of development and unity, bishop of the Mangalore diocese Dr Peter Paul Saldanha expressed hope that the bond among people would grow stronger through such initiatives.

Speaking after inaugurating the community hall on May 5 at Fatima Mata Church, he said the hall had taken shape through collective support and mutual understanding.

MLC Ivan D’Souza, in his address, said the event was a matter of great joy and pride. “This hall is not limited to any one community, but is a space that brings together people of all backgrounds. Like other communities, our people too are progressing well, and society has played a key role in this growth. Despite challenges, the Peruvaayi programme sends out a strong message of communal harmony,” he said.

Shri Krishna Guruji, religious head of Kukkaje Shree Kalikamba Anjaneya Temple, said, “We are all blessed souls. All religious scriptures teach the same principle peaceful coexistence. We must learn to live in understanding and harmony. This is a unique church which embraces all castes and communities in unity.”

Muhammad Shareef Madani from Badria Juma Masjid, Vittal zone vicar Fr Ivan Rodrigues, Kayyar Christ the King Church priest Fr Vishal Monis, Alike gram panchayat president Padmanabha Poojary Sannaguttu, Manila gram panchayat president Sridhar Balekallu, Peruvaayi gram panchayat president Nafeesa, church pastoral council vice president Denis Monteiro, secretary Violet Cuello, and community hall building committee convener Charles D’Souza were present on stage.

Parish priest Fr Simon D’Souza delivered the introductory remarks and welcomed the gathering. Santhosh Monteiro compered the programme and proposed the vote of thanks.