Harishini
Pics by Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network—Udupi
Udupi, Oct 27: Sauhardha Committee, Catholic Sabha, and Udupi Diocese jointly celebrated ‘Sarva Dharma Deepavali’ at Our Lady of Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi, on Monday October 27.
The inauguration of the programme was done in a unique way by hoisting a big ‘Goodudeepa’ on the campus of the church.
The celebration began with a prayer. Then Sri Laxmivaratheertha Sripada, Shirooru Math, said after lighting the lamp that this is a mark of ‘Sangama’ and blessed the gathering.
Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese, said, “When we light a lamp in a high place, it spreads light; so, let us shine as light and bring light across the world’”
“Deepavali signifies the triumph of good over evil, of righteousness over treachery, removed jealousy, darkness of mind, and increases love among people. Let this festive mood bring us together to lead a peaceful life in India,” said the Bishop.
Fr William Martis, director, Inter Religious Commission, said, “Light is power and it removes darkness through its brightness. So as humans let us spend our life helping others. Light does not make any discrimination while scattering itself, so accept everything with an impartial mind. Let us celebrate Deepavali and hope to bring unity among people.”
Maulana Imranullha Mansoori, Jamia Masjid, Malpe, speaking on the occasion said, “Each religious principle proposes brotherhood and love among people. So we are the brothers. Let the Deepavali unite all of us.”
The highlight of the programme was the Goodudeepa which was 26 feet high and 10 feet wide, made from 160 m of cloth and 300 wooden stick. About 500 m of shiny cloth was also used to make this and it weighed about 200-250 kg and was hoisted by using cranes.
The Goodudeepa was designed by Nagarika Committee secretary Nithyananda Olakkadu and the team. As part of the celebration, many cultural programmes were held by students. Bishop Lobo presided over the programme.
Udupi CSI Church zone president Steevan Sarvotham, entrepreneur Manohar Shetty, Leslie Cornelio and Ramesh Kanchan were present. Fr Fredrick Mascarenhas, parish priest, Udupi Church, welcomed the gathering. Mascarenhas Sauhardha Committee convener Alphonse D’Costa delivered the vote of thanks. Fr Denis D’Sa compered the programme.