Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 10: The inauguration of the centre for inter-religious harmony at St Aloysius PU College was held with great solemnity and significance. The event also featured the celebration of Bakrid, one of the most important festivals in the Islamic tradition. The central theme for the occasion, ‘Light’, served as a meaningful and unifying element throughout the programme.
The programme commenced with an inaugural welcome address outlining the centre’s vision and objectives. This was followed by a devotional prayer song, which instilled a contemplative and reverent ambience. The chief guest, Mohammed Nissar, was formally welcomed and felicitated. This was followed by a message on the significance of the occasion. All faiths regard light as a symbol of goodness, knowledge, and a connection with the divine. The centre aims to promote mutual understanding, interfaith dialogue, and harmony among students.
The lighting of floating diyas and placing them in a large vessel marked the official inauguration of the centre. This symbolic act represents a shared commitment to be sources of light in our communities and to spread brightness to those around us. The chief guest, along with other dignitaries, was then invited to the dais to light the ceremonial lamp, thus marking the formal commencement of the centre’s activities for the academic year 2025–2026.
In his inspiring and thought-provoking address, Mohammed Nissar emphasized the significance of sacrifice in a student’s life, noting that giving up something for a greater purpose is not a loss but a meaningful step towards growth. He also highlighted the crucial role of mentorship in shaping values and direction and stressed the importance of patience, encouraging students to remain grounded and persistent in the pursuit of their goals.
Kiran Shetty, the dean of science, addressed the gathering with a short story titled “The man near the window.” Through this moving story, she conveyed the importance of kindness, empathy, and making others feel valued. Her message served as a gentle reminder that even small acts of goodness can bring great happiness to others.
A short skit based on the theme of Bakrid was then presented by the students. The skit conveyed the spiritual essence of the festival, focusing on themes such as faith, devotion, obedience, and the depth of true sacrifice.
The event left everyone with a sense of warmth, unity, and inspiration. Inas Dais, dean of commerce & arts, and Sowmya N, coordinator of the centre for inter-religious harmony, were present on the dais. Punya R Hedge, president of CIRH, facilitated the inaugural ceremony. Damini from II PUC compered the event.