Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Nov 9: Promoting the message of unity and brotherhood, the Ullal City Women's Congress, in association with the Ullal Block Congress and the Block Women's Congress, organised 'Bhavaikyateya Belakina Deepavali' (Diwali of Harmony) and a musical evening at the Congress office premises in Thokkottu.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr Andrew Leo D'Souza, parish priest of St Sebastian Church, said, "Uniting everyone by spreading the message of harmony during festivals is a deed appreciated by God. Such celebrations help us understand each other's cultures, traditions and beliefs. This is a commendable initiative that fosters harmony, coexistence and mutual respect in society."

Chief guest and MESCOM president Harish Kumar stated that the Congress party is a symbol of harmony, continuously working to unite people regardless of caste or religion. "By organising the Souharda Deepavali for the second consecutive year, the Ullal Women's Congress workers have created an excellent atmosphere of mutual love and coexistence. Such celebrations not only help people understand each other's traditions but also strengthen the unity of society," he said.

District Congress president Padmaraj R Poojary said, "The devotion to God, religious beliefs and mutual love among the people of Dakshina Kannada are the specialities of our culture. Lighting lamps with prayers from all religions sends a powerful message to society. We must increase activities that eliminate hatred and foster love and harmony. The core objective of all festivals, be it Diwali, Christmas or Ramzan, is the same: to cultivate love, harmony and coexistence among human beings."

Writer and poet Shamima Kuthar highlighted the pluralistic nature of the celebration, noting that every religious festival carries a message of humanity. "Women play a crucial role behind the happiness and peace of a family, acting as a unifying force. Similarly, women are acting as a bridge of unity in society," she said, appreciating the event for respecting the sentiments of all communities without compromising democratic values.

Programme coordinator and Ullal City Women's Congress president Amitha Ashwin welcomed the gathering. She noted that the second year of the Souharda Deepavali has brought people of all faiths together to share joy, participate in games and spread the message of harmony.

During the programme, Hasan Kunhi Kodijal was handed over the order letter appointing him as the new president of the Kisan unit. Tailoring machines were distributed to two women who won the lucky coupon draw. Various games were conducted for the attendees, followed by a musical evening by Rupesh Bhatnagar and his troupe.

Kumari Sannidhi compered the programme, while Razia Ibrahim proposed the vote of thanks.

Dharmika Parishat member Suresh Bhatnagar, Ullal Block Congress president Ramesh Shetty Boliyar, Cashew Development Corporation chairperson Mamata D S Gatti, former MUDA chairman Sadashiva Ullal, guarantee implementation committee vice-president Surekha Chandrahas, Mangaluru assembly constituency Women's Congress president Chandrika Rai, Tulu Parishat president Shubhodaya Alva, former taluk panchayat president Monu Malar, backward classes unit president Vivekananda Sanil, Block Congress vice-president Purushotham Shetty Pilar, Shaukath Ali, A K Rehman Kodijal, Talapady zonal Congress president Vaibhav Shetty, U T Fareed, district Women's Congress president Appi, MUDA member Sabitha Misquith, Shashikala, Devaki R Ullal, Arun Margatale, Mudipu block women's president Vrunda Merejamalu, Sahil Manchila, Richard and others were present.