Media Release

Udupi, Oct 21: The members of St Ann’s Church, Thottam, celebrated Diwali in a unique way by visiting the homes of their Hindu brethren and exchanging festive greetings.

On the occasion of Diwali, for three consecutive days, Christian parishioners visited several Hindu homes within the church limits, sharing sweets and lamps as a gesture of goodwill and festive joy.

Speaking on the occasion, the parish priest, Fr Denis D’Sa, said, “Diwali is a universal festival, celebrated by everyone. Just as the light of a lamp shines equally for all, the joy of festivals becomes more meaningful when we celebrate together. During this festival of lights, we should become lights that build bridges of faith and love in place of hatred, mistrust, cruelty, and violence. Let us become lamps of hope in the midst of darkness and join hands to strengthen the bonds of harmony.”

Also present were church vice president Leslie Aroza, secretary Blesilla Crasta, Sr Sushma and Sr Shalini from the local convent, and several others.