Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP/JD)
Udupi, Jan 10: “Milagres Utsav 2026” at the Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, organised by the Wilson and Leena Fernandes family under the banner of the Fernandes Group, is set to be celebrated as a multi-day festival blending sports, spirituality, culture and social harmony.
Spread across January, the Utsav will witness wide participation from parish members, artistes and the general public, reinforcing the spirit of unity and togetherness.
The Milagres Utsav is being held as part of the annual feast celebrations of Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, with the support of Phirjenth Wilson and Leena Fernandes, proprietors of the Fernandes Group.
The celebrations will begin on Sunday, January 11, with an Inter-Parish Sports Meet to be held from 8.30 am onwards at the Milagres College Ground, Kallianpur.
The sports meet, organised exclusively for members of the Roman Catholic community, will feature men’s volleyball and women’s throwball tournaments, with teams participating from the Udupi and Mangaluru Dioceses.
Conducted in a league format under official rules, the event aims to encourage sportsmanship, discipline and healthy competition among parish members. Attractive cash prizes and trophies, along with individual awards, have been announced for the top teams.
An inter-parish tug-of-war competition will also be held, and the event is expected to draw large participation and enthusiastic spectators, setting a vibrant and energetic tone for the Utsav.
On Friday, January 16, an Inter-Parish choir singing competition will be held at the Milagres Tricentenary Hall premises. The programme is being organised in loving memory of the late Fr Valerian Mendonca, honouring his enduring contribution to church singing and music.
Choirs and singers from various parishes will take part, presenting devotional hymns and spiritual compositions. The competition seeks to promote liturgical music, nurture young talent and strengthen bonds among parishes through harmonious and faith-filled performances.
On Sunday, January 18, the Utsav will observe Confraternity Sunday, highlighting fellowship, faith and collective participation in religious life.
The celebrations will continue on Monday, January 19, from 5 pm onwards with a Souharda Koota (fellowship meet) at the Milagres Cathedral Ground. The programme aims to promote communal harmony and goodwill, bringing together people from different sections of society. As part of the event, Prathibha Puraskar will be held to felicitate individuals for their achievements in various fields, followed by a community dinner symbolising sharing and togetherness.
Adding a lively cultural touch to the evening, a popular Tulu comedy drama “Yennane Kathe” by the renowned Cha Parka troupe of Devdas Kapikad will be staged, providing wholesome entertainment and drawing large crowds.
The grand conclusion of Milagres Utsav 2026 will take place on Wednesday, January 21, with the “289th Wilfy Night”, a mega cultural and entertainment programme to be held from 6 pm onwards at the Milagres Cathedral Ground. Presented by the Fernandes Group, Wilfy Night will feature a colourful blend of music, dance and comedy performed by well-known artistes, musicians and anchors. The programme aims to bring families and communities together in a festive atmosphere, concluding the Utsav on a joyful and memorable note.