Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Nov 2: Bringing together people from different communities, the Sauharda Samiti and Catholic Sabha Udupi unit on Wednesday November 2 jointly organized 'Sarva Dharma Deepavali' at Mother of Sorrows Church premises.

The inaugural programme was conducted in a unique way by lighting a huge 'Diya gopura' at the premises of the church.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Madhavi Bhandary, retired principal of Poornaprajna Evening College said, "True light takes us from untruth to truth, darkness to light and from death to eternal life. We should light the lamp instead of cursing darkness. The words of elders are equal to words of God.

"As Indians, we love festivals, fairs, and celebrations. From womb to tomb, there are celebrations to mark our special days. These festivals keep us away from negativity. Where there is lack of knowledge, there is darkness," said Bhandary.

"Misleading messages spoil peace of our society. Today as human beings, we are prone to negativity. Most of the people are busy with taking selfies and updating their profiles instead of nurturing valuable life. Nowadays, even elders are become intolerant," she added.

Variety cultural program was staged by students of different colleges on the occasion.

Dr Sushil Jathanna wished the gathering. Fr Fred Muscaranhas, parish priest, presided over the programme.

Khalil Ahmed, Roysan Fernandes, Lawrence D’Souza, secretary, CESU Udupi diocese, Nithyananda Olakadu, Nagarika Horata Samiti, Benedict Neronha, Benedict Fernandes and Resham Fernandes were present.

Teacher Amritha, St Mary’s English Medium School, Kannarpady compered the programme.

Alphonso D'Costa, convenor of Sauharda Samiti welcomed. Mohammed Moulana, member of Sauharda Samiti proposed the vote of thanks.