Mangaluru, Oct 30: "Festival of lights Deepavali, is celebrated by all with harmony. It is an opportunity for not only exchanging greetings with each other but also strengthening friendship. This is a model programme," said Kaup MLA Lalaji Mendon.

He was speaking at the prize distribution ceremony of Goodudeepa (lantern) competition and programme of Deepavali celebration and plastic-free Moodbelle brochure release, held at St Lawrence PU College, Moodbelle.

Fr George D’souza, the correspondent of St Lawrence Group of Institutions delivered the blessings address.

Pundalika Marathe, president, Kannada Sahitya Parishad, Kaup described the importance of Deepavali.

Fr Cyril Lobo, assistant parish priest of St Lawrence Church delivered his message by rendering a song.

Lion Rajendra Shetty distributed prizes for the winners.

Belle village panchayat president Sudhakar Poojary presided over the programme.

Edward Larsen D’souza, the principal of the PU college delivered the keynote address.

Panchayat PDO Vasanthi Bai welcomed the gathering and Sunitha Kamath rendered the vote of thanks. Sudha Bhat, English teacher compered the ceremony.

Goodudeepas were displayed in the college campus.

Jerald Fernandes, vice president, pastoral council of the church, Shrishaila of Shirva police station, vice presidents, members, office bearers of Lions club, SLRM unit staffs, alumni, students of Jnanaganga and Narayan Guru Education institutions were participated in the programme.