Pics: Abhijith N Kolpe
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)
Mangaluru Dec 17: St Aloysius College conducted Christmas celebrations in order to promote interfaith harmony at L F Rasquinha auditorium in the College premises on Monday, December 17.
The celebration was inaugurated by installing statues into the crib. Student’s enacted birth of Jesus Christ through drama. They created a festive mood by singing carols and dancing to the lively beats.
Speaking on the occasion, director of Divine Mercy Retreat Centre Fr Derick D’Souza said, "We call Dharma as religion. The word religion is derived from relegate which means sending to a lower level or not accepting anything. Does religion teach us to bring someone to a low level? Dharma is not a religion, as per vedas and Hindu scriptures, Dharma means to accept everything good, morality and all wonderful things. There is no translation to Dharma is any language except Sanskrit.
“God did not divide us but unified us, but we divided God. Let the celebration of joy bring happiness to those who are in need,” he said.
KMC neurologist Dr Laxman Shenoy said," It’s been a privilege to be part of this Christmas celebration. During our younger days, we were excited about Christmas celebrations because our mindset was fixed that Christmas means cake. This is the celebration of joy where good message is imparted.”
Government first Grade College, Bantwal, assistant professor Hydrali said, "Christian community is at the forefront in contributing education to the masses. They taught us English language which has a competitive advantage. Four important aspects like skill, knowledge, health and values were imparted at Christian institutions making an individual a complete personality.”
“St Aloysius College earlier celebrated Eid, Diwali and now Christmas and such programmes will bring all faiths together promoting citizens to live in harmony and peace,” he added.
Principal of St Aloysius College Dr Praveen Martis said, "I congratulate all the students and their effort in bringing out the message of Christmas".
Coordinator Anup Denzil Veigas welcomed the gathering and student council president Relston proposed the vote of thanks. Joyston and Smitha compered the cultural events.