Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network-Mangaluru (JS)

Mangaluru, Oct 29: Under the leadership of Chief whip of legislative council, Ivan D'souza ‘Sauharda Deepavali’ was celebrated here at Gorakshana Hall Kadri on Saturday October 29.

Ivan D'souza in his welcome address said, “Deepavali is a festival of lights. It is a festival for all Indians. I am happy to celebrate this festival by getting people from all religions together. Let this festival bring more joy and happiness in your lives.”

Addressing the gathering, Mangaluru South MLA J R Lobo said, “Deepavali is the culture of our nation. Let this festival of lights light your lives with happiness and prosperity. We celebrate Deepavali in different ways. We should celebrate this festival by way of helping the needy and marginalized. This is the real way of celebrating the festival. This festival should promote harmony and peace in society. It is the need of the hour that we all unite for good cause.”

“All religions give us message of harmony and peace. There are different religions but they are all different ways to reach god. So we should respect all the religions and celebrate festivals in unity. I respect the Hindu religion because of its tolerance. It has helped other religions also grow in this country. Ours is a country which has unity in diversity. Today because of simple reasons, relations are spoilt. Let’s all live with unity and brotherhood. I wish happy Deepawali to all.” Lobo added. 

Various competitions including Goodu Deepa competition were held. Rice and spectacle were distributed to many needy people.

Shri Sandeepnathji Maharaj and Shri Rajayogi Nirmalnathji Maharaj of Yogishwar math, Kadri, Moulana Zafar Sadiq Faizi, secretary of Imam council Karnataka, Fr Clifford Fernandes, Rev Isan Palan and others were present.