Media Release
Belagavi, Sep 12: St Paul’s High School, Camp, celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi 2026 with great joy, harmony and togetherness on September 12, centred on the theme ‘Joy of Sharing.’
The celebration was graced by Fr Sunil Fernandes SJ, superior of Bijapur Mission Station; Fr Vishal D’Souza SJ, principal of Loyola CBSE School, Sindhagi; and Fr John Crasta SJ, director of St Anne’s Institution, Bijapur, along with Fr Eric Mathias SJ, principal; Fr Alendro D’Costa SJ, vice principal; Jesuit Fathers; teachers; parents and students.
Adding colour and innocence to the occasion, several students dressed as Lord Ganesha, delighting everyone on the campus as adorable ‘Bala Ganeshas.’
The celebration began with a warm welcome, followed by flag hoisting and the lighting of the lamp, symbolising unity, knowledge and the triumph of light over darkness. An inter-religious prayer led by the students highlighted the universal values of love, peace, compassion and service. A melodious welcome song further enhanced the festive spirit.
The young Paulites presented a meaningful drama on ‘Joy of Sharing,’ highlighting wisdom, humility, patience, compassion, culture and unity. Through their performance, the students conveyed the message that happiness grows when it is shared with others.
Addressing the gathering, Fr Sunil Fernandes SJ spoke about the significance of Ganesh Chaturthi and encouraged students to respect people of all religions and cultures. He also delighted the audience with a melodious Kannada bhajan.
Tr Nandini narrated the beautiful story of the birth of Lord Ganesha and shared the values and virtues that students can learn from it. A vibrant dance of Ganesha showcased the talent and creativity of the students while celebrating Indian culture and tradition.
Fr Eric Mathias SJ, principal, encouraged the students to learn from and practise the good values and virtues associated with Lord Ganesha in their daily lives. He emphasised that festivals become truly meaningful when they inspire us to become more compassionate, generous and responsible human beings.
The celebrations concluded with a joyful fellowship lunch, bringing together the Jesuit management, staff members of St Paul’s Institutions, PTA members and benefactors. The common meal became a beautiful expression of friendship, gratitude, fraternity and togetherness.