Daijiworld Media Network-Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Oct 31: Souharda Samiti Udyavar celebrated the Festival of Lights Deepavali in collaboration with St Francis Xavier Church, Udyavar here on Saturday, October 29 at the Church campus Udyavar.

Nithyananda Padre, a retired sub-editor, Udayavani, Manipal inaugurated ‘Gududeepa’ by switching the lamp. George Samuel, secretary extended welcome address. President Rafik P Monisa welcomed all the guests by offering ‘Gududeepa’.

Speaking on the occasion, Nithyananda said, “Let the lamps light not only our surroundings but also our soul. Such religious programmes will bring all people together from different religions. When we build the wall of religion, unity between religions becomes weak.”

“There are three different dimensions in all celebrations. One part is the celebration (practice), the second part is epic behind it and the third one is its spiritual value. Most of our religious practices are interlinked.”

“Most of the protests or movements we see in society today are politically motivated. I believe that these developments are thoughtless religious blindness. Deepavali is a festival which is also known as offering our gratitude to nature,” said Padre during the programme.

Colourful cultural programme was staged after the formal programme on the occasion.

Sweet was distributed by members of Sauharda Samiti. Crackers were burst as part of Deepavali celebration. Sugandhi Shekhar, president, Udyavar gram panchayat wished Deepavali greetings to all. Guest of honour Abhid Ali, former president, Friend circle Udyavar was present.  Fr Roque D’souza presided over the programme.

Different religious leaders were also present on the occasion.  Stevan Colaco compered the programme. Prasanna Udyavar compered the cultural programme.