Inchara Udupi
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)
Udupi, Aug 31: 'Sarva Dharma Samavesha', an inter-religious convention was held as part of Ganeshothsava celebrations in Kurkalu here on Saturday August 30. The programme also marked the silver jubilee celebrations of Kurkalu Sarvajanika Ganeshotsava Samiti.
Esha Vittaladas Swamiji of Kemar Sandeepani Sadhanashrama, addresing the gathering said, "Corruption, which is present in all walks of life, has not spared even religious and spiritual spheres. Today, we can see people being duped of their money in the name of superstitions by those who play with their religious sentiments. Earning money while ignoring values has become everyone's priority."
He added that the lap of a mother was holier than any Math and if mothers impart religious education to their children, they could protect and safeguard the society.
Fr Leslie D’Souza, parish priest of St John’s Church, Shankerapura said, "Where there is truth and love, there is peace. If we develop religious harmony just like the aroma of Shankerapura jasmine, it will drive away superstition and the human religion will brighten up."
Wakf board Udupi member Maulana K A Abdul Rehman Razwi said that only those who did not have proper knowledge of religion become fanatics
"If we ensure that politics does not interfere in religion, harmony can be upheld," he said.
Karkala CSI pastor Goldwin G Bangera said, "In the past, people of all religions used to visit the houses of those who celebrated feasts. However, these days, the celebrations are restricted to sending packets of food at the most. It is sad that friendship is becoming weak. Strengthening religious harmony is the need of the hour."
Karkala police department ASP K Annamalai, who inaugurated the convention, congratulated Kurkalu Sarvajanika Ganeshotsava Samiti on organizing the programme.
Former panchayat president Shivarama Shetty was the guest of honour.
Samiti president Kurkalu Dinakar Shetty welcomed the gathering. Secretary Udaya Shetty proposed the vote of thanks.