Daijiworld News Network - Gulbarga (GA)

Gulbarga, Nov 17: Gulbarga diocese celebrated Infant Jesus Shrine Feast and Jathra Utsav ’06 at Bhalki from November 10 to 12.

It is an unique celebration that combines faith and culture of the people. People of all faiths assembled in thousands at the shrine and participated in the entire programme of jathra for 3 days. Prior to this they prepared themselves by ‘ Padayathra’, ( Pilgrimage walk) from their villages to the shrine walking a distance of 30 to 40 kilometre. The Jathra celebrations unite all Chirstaians, as well as non- Christains as they visit the shirne, listen to Word of God,  participate in various cultural progrmmes and public functions.

Among the dignitaries present were bishop Aloysius Paul D’Souza of Mangalore, bishop Robert Miranda of Gulbarga, Krishna Bhatt,  Chief Justice Bidar. Prakash Khandre, MLA Bhalki, Gyani Singh Gurudwar, Bidar. Manikappa Gada and Dr Sybil received ‘ Vishishta Seva Prashasti’ from Gulbarga diocese for their  special service and contribution to the society.