Media Release
Mangaluru, Jun 5: "All religions teach us love, charity and harmony. Festivals like Bakrid remind us that unity in diversity is our greatest strength," said Asma K, deputy director, Karnataka State Audit and Accounts Department, while addressing students at the Bakrid celebration held at St Aloysius Gonzaga School on June 5 in the Gonzaga Hall.
The programme was graced by Asma K as the chief guest. She is also a proud parent of Mohammad Ashaz of Class 5B. Principal Fr Rohan D'Almeida, SJ, vice principal Aparna Suresh (primary section) and academic coordinator (primary section) Carol Tina Rodrigues were among the dignitaries present.
In her inspiring address, Asma K emphasised that every religion promotes values of love, compassion, and service. She noted that celebrations such as Bakrid help students appreciate diverse faiths and nurture the spirit of brotherhood and unity. Encouraging students to make choices that bring pride to their families, teachers, and the nation, she also highlighted the importance of skill-based learning, competitive exam preparation, and timely guidance from parents and teachers.
Addressing the gathering, principal Fr Rohan D'Almeida, SJ, spoke about the true essence of Bakrid as a festival of sharing and caring. He encouraged students to share with friends and those in need, describing sharing as the noblest expression of any religion. Drawing a meaningful connection between Bakrid and World Environment Day, he reminded students that nature selflessly gives to all and inspires humanity to live with generosity, gratitude, and harmony.
The celebration commenced with an interfaith prayer service highlighting the significance of Bakrid. Students gained deeper insights into the festival through an informative video presentation, followed by a vibrant qawwali performance that added colour and enthusiasm to the occasion.
The gathering was welcomed by Souhardh S of Class 5B, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Snigdha Shailesh Karkera of Class 5B. The programme was compered by Julian and Paavani of Class 5B.
The event was efficiently coordinated by Divya K and Teena Abraham, with students of Classes 5A and 5B taking charge of organising and conducting the programme. The Bakrid celebration served as a meaningful platform to promote the values of faith, sacrifice, gratitude, sharing, and communal harmony among the students.