Pics: Nayana J C
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Dec 21: A strong message of national unity, communal harmony and brotherhood resonated at the Nationalist Christmas Celebration 2025, hosted at Invent Mary Church, Bajjodi, on Sunday. The event was jointly organised by Infant Mary Church, Rashtriyavadi Christian Vedike, Mangaluru, and Cordel Cricketers, Kulshekar.
The celebration commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp, symbolising peace and harmony among communities, followed by the cutting of the Christmas cake, marking the spirit of togetherness.
Aimed at fostering national integration, integrity and emotional unity, the programme also featured a fraternal fellowship meal, reflecting the inclusive ethos of the celebration.
The event was inaugurated by Captain Brijesh Chowta, member of Parliament, Dakshina Kannada, while MLA D Vedavyas Kamath, Mangaluru City South Assembly constituency, presided over the programme.
Delivering his presidential address, D Vedavyas Kamath expressed delight at being part of the celebration. He said festivals should be observed collectively, transcending caste and religion. “India’s strength lies in unity and mutual respect, and such celebrations strengthen the feeling that we are one,” he emphasised.
Kamath also highlighted the long-pending Bajjodi road development issue, stating that he had submitted official documents and assurance papers to expedite construction, fulfilling a prior promise to residents.
In his inaugural speech, Captain Brijesh Chowta lauded the organisers for a meaningful programme promoting unity. “While there is medicine for many diseases, there is no medicine for jealousy,” he said, urging people to overcome negativity for societal progress. He praised the unique social harmony of Dakshina Kannada and called for its preservation and strengthening.
Fr Arun Wilson Lobo, principal of Padua College, Mangaluru, delivered the blessings.
Dignitaries on the dais included J R Lobo, former MLA; Sr Lily Pereira BS, provincial Superior, Bethany Mangaluru province; Ravishankar Mijar, former trustee, Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple, Kudroli; Shivanand Mendon, divisional joint secretary, Vishwa Hindu Parishad; Ganesh Shetty Jappu Guddeguttu, president, Sri Suryanarayana Temple, Maroli; and Mohammed Shareef, Hasnathul Masjid, Bikarnakatte.
Guests of honour included Keshava Maroli, Naveen D’Souza, Vanitha Prasad, Kishore Kottari —all former Corporators —and Prof V Jayaram, president, Sri Harihara Panduranga Ettal Bhajana Mandir, Bikarnakatte – Kandettu.
Other dignitaries also addressed the gathering, sharing messages of peace, unity and mutual respect.
The programme was coordinated under the guidance of Fr Dominic Vaas, Infant Mary Church, Bajjodi; Franklin Monteiro, founder, Rashtriyavadi Christian Vedike, Mangaluru; and Joncy Rego, Cordel Cricketers.
Cultural highlights included a graceful welcome dance by the youth, followed by melodious Christmas carols and vibrant dance performances, spreading cheer and laughter among attendees. These segments reflected the true spirit of Christmas and unity, earning warm appreciation from both dignitaries and the audience.