Media Release
Kasargod, Mar 9: A meaningful and vibrant programme was organized by Snehalaya Charitable Trust, on the occasion of International Women’s Day on March 08 at the Snehalaya Auditorium, Manjeshwar, Kasargod. The event brought together distinguished guests, trustees, women’s from the neighbourhood, staff members to celebrate the strength and contributions of women and to promote social awareness.
The programme began with a warm introduction and general welcome by the masters of ceremony, Lavita D’Souza, institutional in charge and Clint Joseph, HOD-clinical department. This was followed by a graceful prayer dance by Remona Evette Pereira. The dignitaries were then escorted to the stage, and the programme was formally inaugurated with the symbolic planting of a sapling, highlighting the importance of environmental responsibility.
Rakesh Lobo, manager of the de-addiction centre, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of International Women’s Day and warmly welcoming the chief guests, guest of honour, and all dignitaries present. He acknowledged the presence of chief guests: Ajitha K (station house officer, Vanitha Police Station, Kasargod), Irfana Iqbal (chairperson, Development Standing Committee, Kasaragod District Panchayat) and guest of honour professor Hilda Rayappan (director and founder, Prajna Counselling Centre), Shashikala Suvarna (project office, SKDRDP (Reg), Manjeshwar Taluk), Shilpa Raj (founder, Shilpa Kitchen), Olivia Crasta (secretary and trustee, Snehalaya), and Sarita Crasta (trustee, Snehalaya), and appreciated their presence on the occasion.
The gathering was addressed by chief guests, Ajitha K, station house officer of Vanitha Police Station, Kasargod, and Irfana Iqbal, chairperson of the Development Standing Committee of Kasargod district panchayat. Their messages emphasized women’s empowerment, social responsibility, and the importance of collective efforts in building a compassionate society and also appreciating the service and initiatives of Snehalaya.
A felicitation was held for professor Hilda Rayappan, director and founder of Prajna Counselling Centre, in recognition of her remarkable contribution to counselling and social service. Addressing the audience, she spoke about the significance of mental health support, appreciated the efforts of Br Joseph Crasta and Snehalaya for their dedicated service, and highlighted the importance of empathy in helping individuals overcome life’s challenges.
Another felicitation was presented to Shilpa Raj, founder of Shilpa Kitchen, who shared inspiring thoughts about entrepreneurship and women’s self-reliance, while also speaking about her personal journey and the struggles she faced in building her venture. Olivia Crasta, secretary and trustee of Snehalaya, also addressed the gathering and spoke about the organization’s ongoing efforts in rehabilitation, social outreach, and the importance of women’s empowerment in building a stronger and more compassionate society.
The formal event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Jeswin N D, counsellor. He expressed sincere gratitude to the chief guests, guest of honour, distinguished guests, participants, and all those who contributed to the success of the programme. He also appreciated the efforts of the organizers, staff, and volunteers for their support and cooperation.
Later, cultural performances and games were conducted. Dance performances by Remona Evette Pereira and the Horizon Dance Crew added colour and enthusiasm to the celebration. The programme ended with the distribution of sarees and gifts to beneficiaries by Br Joseph Crasta, founder of Snehalaya, followed by lunch for all attendees.
The event served as a meaningful platform to honour women achievers, promote social awareness, and strengthen the spirit of service and community support.