Media Release
Udupi, Jun 19: Samanvaya Sarvadharma Souharda Committee, Thottam held an inter-religious Bakrid celebration at the residence of Nakwa Yahya, vice president Samanvaya Sarvadharma Souharda committee.
Rev Edwin Joseph, pastor, CSI Ebenezer Church, Maple, on the occasion said that Bakrid is nothing but a festival of love and sacrifice and conveyed the festal greetings to the Muslim friends gathered for the celebration.
Ramesh Thingalaya, president of Samanvaya Souharda Committee greeted the Muslim brethren on behalf of the Samithi. He said, “After the birth of this Souharda Committee in October 2023, we have come to know each other better and have come closer thus facilitating peace and harmony in the vicinity of Thottam.
"This move has motivated many others too to join hands with the committee in the promotion of peace and harmony. The festivals like this bring people together as they are universal languages," he said.
He wished the Muslim friends God's choicest blessings.
Dr Parvez, professor in Islamic studies, delivered an inspiring message. He narrated the historical background of the feast. This festival invites us to love, to give and to forgive and to promote humanity and humanness, he said.
The members of the Inter Religious Committee of Thottam gathered on the day of joy for Muslim brethren as they celebrated the festival of Bakrid which is the commemoration of Prophet Abraham's love and sacrifice, to express solidarity and brotherhood, peace and harmony. As many as 75 people from various religious and cultural backgrounds participated in the celebration, as the event focused on the spirit of unity and mutual respect among people of all faiths.
The celebration commenced with an inclusive Inter religious prayer led by Fr Denis D'Sa, the honorary president of the Inter Religious Committee.
Leslie Auroza, the secretary, compered the programme and proposed the vote of thanks.
A sumptuous dinner was hosted by Nakwa Yahya and family to all the invitees and every guest was presented with a copy of the Holy Quran.