Media Release

Mangaluru, Oct 19: The Centre for Inter-Religious Harmony encourages students to appreciate India’s rich cultural heritage, reinforcing the spirit of togetherness that also defines the ethos of St Aloysius Pre-University College. Celebration of Deepavali, the festival of lights, reflects the values of harmony, unity and shared joy that the college strives to promote.

This year’s celebration, which commemorated king Mahabali‘s sacrifice and devotion, commenced with a melodious invocation by the members of the Shastriya Sangeetha Association, followed by a symbolic lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering on the occasion, principal Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, emphasised the importance of light in dispelling darkness and fear. He expressed the need to place love and service above all in these times, when darkness prevails in varied forms around us. Reflecting on the message of Jesus Christ to let one’s light shine among men, Fr Clifford urged the staff and students to be the light in the lives of others through small acts of kindness and by reaching out to those in need.

Deepavali celebrates the homecoming of Lord Rama and destruction of the demon Narakasura in the hands of Lord Krishna. The vibrant cultural performances presented by students, including a Kunithabajane, dance drama, Yakshagana and dances reflected the joy of these occasions.

Present on the occasion also were the vice-principals Vilma Fernandes and Muralikrishna G M; campus minister Fr Anthony Derrick, deans Inas Dias and Kiran Shetty, staff co-ordinator of the CIRH Sowmya and student co-ordinators Punya Hegde and Vinay D’Souza.

Celebrating religious festivals in the campus upholds the college’s commitment to nurturing cultural awareness and fostering harmony. The Deepavali celebration not only provided a valuable platform for students to engage with Indian traditions, but also encouraged kindness, generosity and strengthening of social bonds.