Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Jun 27: With an aim to foster peace and harmony, Id-ul-Fitr, the festival marking the culmination of the month of Ramadan, was celebrated at Mother of Sorrows Church here on Tuesday June 27 with an inter-religious meet.

The programme was jointly organized by Sauharda committee, Catholic Sabha Udupi unit, Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi and Lions Club Udupi Sangama.

Addressing the gathering, Sri Laxmivarateertha Swamiji of Shiroor Math said, "Muslims in Udupi should take a decision that they will love cows as they are worshipped as God by Hindus. By doing this, Udupi can become a model city for the nation.

"There is an intimate relationship between Hindus and Muslims. Decades ago, Haji Abdullah had donated essential commodities like rice and oil for lighting lamps in Sri Krishna Math. But now interference of political parties is creating fissure between the communities and disrupting harmony. An environment has been created in the society where Hindus look at Muslims as enemies," he said.

Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, bishop of Udupi diocese presided over the programme.

In his address, bishop Dr Gerald said, "Eid is a festival that brings everyone together as one family. It is a festival of charity. There is a tradition in Islam of donating a part of the income to the poor before offering prayers. The festival is about sharing a part of one's income with poor families, with those who cannot afford to celebrate Eid with joy and happiness. Eid is celebrated in all their homes marking equality. Everyone should lead their lives understanding each other and respecting each other.

"Observing fast during Ramadan helps in controlling anger. Through this, one can live in society with peace, unity, harmony, love, endurance, respect and cooperate with each other without any discrimination of caste or religion," he added.

Moulana Abdul Rahiman Razwi Kalkata, priest and vice-president, district Wakf board, said, "God will not accept our celebration if the poor are neglected. During Eid, donating food and groceries to the poor is a great work."

Rev Noel Prashanth Karkada, pastor, CSI Church, Mangaluru conveyed his wishes on the occasion.

A colourful cultural programme was performed by the diocese children.

Fr Valerian Mendonca, parish priest of Mother of Sorrows Church welcomed the gathering.

Leslie Cornelio proposed the vote of thanks. Michael D'Souza compered the programme.