Media Release

Beltangady, Oct 7: In commemoration of the death centenary of the venerable missionary Fr Faustine Corti, SJ, the Youth Commission and ICYM Naravi Unit jointly organised KHELOTSAV 2K26, a parish-wide games festival at the St Paul English Medium School Ground, Naravi.

The event began with an impressive ward-wise March Past, with participants representing the various wards of the parish. The inaugural ceremony was held and was presided over by Fr Jerome D’Souza, parish priest of St Antony Church, Naravi.

Fr Rupesh Tauro, lecturer at St Antony PU College, Naravi; Sanjay Miranda, vice president of the Parish Pastoral Council; Sumitha D’Souza, secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; Sunil D’Souza, Commission coordinator of St Antony Church, Naravi; Jovel Fernandes, animator of ICYM Naravi unit; and Rohan Pereira, games coordinator, were present on the dais.
Winston Alvares, president of ICYM Naravi unit, welcomed the gathering. The event was officially inaugurated by Fr Jerome D’Souza by breaking a traditional pot with a stick, marking the commencement of the day-long sporting celebrations.

Clarissa Miranda compered the inaugural ceremony, while Jovel Fernandes, animator of ICYM Naravi unit, delivered the vote of thanks.

KHELOTSAV 2K26 featured a variety of ward-wise competitions for children and parishioners of all age groups. The games were conducted by Rohan Pereira and Jovel Fernandes, who ensured active participation and maintained an energetic atmosphere throughout the event.

Special competitions were organised for senior citizens aged 60 and above, along with entertaining couple games, making KHELOTSAV an inclusive celebration that brought together people of different generations.

The event was also visited by Criston, president of the diocesan ICYM, and Renita, secretary of the diocesan ICYM. Their presence encouraged the organisers and participants and added significance to the celebration.

The valedictory ceremony was held at the conclusion of the competitions. Fr Rupesh Tauro, in his address, appreciated the efforts of the organisers and congratulated the parishioners for their enthusiastic participation, teamwork and sporting spirit.

The prize distribution ceremony followed the valedictory programme. Sacred Heart of Jesus Ward emerged as the overall champion of KHELOTSAV 2K26, while St Antony Ward and St Joseph Ward secured the runner-up positions.

The enthusiastic participation of parishioners throughout the event made KHELOTSAV 2K26 a memorable celebration. The games not only provided an opportunity for healthy competition but also strengthened unity, fellowship and community spirit among the parishioners.

The event successfully brought together children, youth, adults, senior citizens and families on a common platform, making KHELOTSAV 2K26 a celebration of faith, friendship, fitness and fellowship.