Media Release
Mangaluru, Dec 26: The Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, organised a vibrant Christmas Star Competition this season, receiving an enthusiastic response from participants across the city and neighbouring areas. Around 20 stars were submitted, each one reflecting not only artistic skill but also a strong social and ecological message.
What made this competition unique was its clear focus on sustainability. All the stars were crafted from waste and discarded materials such as coconut shells, dry grass, paper scraps, cloth pieces, plastic, and metal items-materials that would normally be thrown away. The initiative beautifully demonstrated that creativity does not depend on expensive resources but on imagination, responsibility, and concern for the environment.
Traditionally, the Christmas star-also known as the Star of Bethlehem-reminds Christians of the star that guided the three wise men from the East to the manger in Bethlehem, where they worshipped the Child Jesus and offered gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This year, the star carried an added meaning: a call to care for our common home. By transforming waste into symbols of light and hope, participants conveyed that what we often label as ‘waste’ can be renewed with purpose and beauty.
The competition saw participation from individuals, families, and parish communities, making it a true celebration of creativity and togetherness.
One of the contestants, Brian D’Souza from Bendur, explained that he designed his star in the form of a cross. The three ends were painted black to symbolise the negative forces in the world, while a ray of light at the centre represented hope. The back of the star was kept white, inviting each viewer to decide how they would ‘paint’ the world through their actions.
Felcy Lobo from Bejai shared that such competitions uncover hidden talents while bringing families together. Submitting her star, she added that she was already imagining what she might create next year.
Adding to the visual splendour, members of the Infant Jesus Ward from St Dominic Parish, Ashoknagar, presented a seven-foot-tall star depicting key events from the birth of Jesus-from the Annunciation to the visit of the Wise Men. The entire ward collaborated to prepare the star, making it a powerful symbol of unity.
This year’s competition also recognised exceptional efforts through prizes:
First prize: Laveena D’Souza from Shakthinagar for her ‘Laudato Si Star,’ which carried a compelling message to protect the earth and safeguard creation.
Second prize: Herick Saldanha from Merlapadav, who created a striking ten-foot-tall, 100-kg star made of 15,000 broomsticks, incorporating a crib, Christmas tree, and Santa Claus-an impressive display of dedication and craftsmanship.
Third prize: Divij Saldanha from Bondel, who fashioned an elegant star from coconut shells, showcasing how natural materials can be transformed with creativity and skill.
A large crowd gathered to view the stars, click pictures, and take selfies, turning the event into a joyful community celebration.
Through this initiative, the Christmas star emerged not merely as decoration, but as a messenger-proclaiming faith, creativity, community spirit, and hope for a more responsible and compassionate world.