Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 3: “Festivals are not just about rituals and traditions; they are about love, togetherness and gratitude.”

St Aloysius PU College radiated joy and harmony as the campus came alive with ARMADHAM 2025, a triple celebration of Onam, Ganesh Chaturthi and the feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary organised by the Malayalam Association, in collaboration with the campus ministry and the centre for inter-religious harmony, the event showcased the beauty of cultural diversity and the spirit of unity that binds the Aloysian family.

The programme commenced with a prayer song by the college choir, invoking God’s presence, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the dignitaries Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, principal, along with campus minister Fr Antony Derrick SJ, vice principals and deans. This marked the auspicious beginning of the day’s festivities.

The feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary was beautifully portrayed through a skit accompanied by hymns and dance. It symbolised the new harvest of crops as a sign of new beginnings, gratitude and sacrifice. The performance reminded everyone of the maternal grace of Mary and the values of family bonding, generosity and faith.

Principal of the college, Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, in his message, reflected on the significance of celebrating these three festivals together. He reminded students of King Maveli’s compassion and welfare for his people and how Ganesh Chaturthi, Monti Fest and Onam all highlight gratitude for nature’s bounty, the value of family bonds and the spirit of sacrifice and generosity. He also emphasised the importance of cherishing cultural heritage. Referring to the Nativity Feast, which is also observed as the day of the girl child, he urged everyone to nurture and value the girl child, while also finding time to spend with their near and dear ones.

The spirit of Onam then filled the campus with colour, rhythm and energy. The ‘Thiruvathira’ dance captivated the audience with its elegance, while the ‘Chenda Melam’ electrified the atmosphere with its powerful beats, transporting everyone to the heart of Kerala’s traditions. A unique rap performance brought a modern twist to the celebration, showing how tradition and contemporary expressions can blend seamlessly. The programme concluded with a flash mob, a burst of youthful energy that brought the entire campus together in cheer.

The event was a true celebration of India’s cultural mosaic where different faiths and traditions harmoniously coexist. Through dance, music, skits and festivity, the Aloysian community celebrated not only rituals but also the deeper values of gratitude, love and unity.

As the voices of students and staff joined in the College Anthem, ARMADHAM 2025 concluded on a note of faith, festivity and fellowship.