The Commission for Interreligious Dialogue of the Diocese of Karwar joyfully organized the Sauhardh Christmas Celebration on Saturday, 20th December 2025, at the Our Lady of Piety Church Hall, Kone, Karwar.
The celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, whose presence added spiritual depth and pastoral warmth to the occasion. The program was further honored by the presence of distinguished guests, Shri Baveshanand Swami, Monk In-charge of the Ramakrishna Ashrama, Karwar; Shri Imthiyaz Bhukari; and Brahmakumari Kavitha, reflecting the ecumenical and interreligious spirit of the gathering.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Baveshanand Swami, Monk In-charge of the Ramakrishna Ashrama, Karwar, reflected that God dwells in every human heart. He reminded the audience that while human beings are always with God, they often forget Him in the busyness of life. He called upon everyone to reconnect with God, emphasizing that goodness is present in all religions, which ultimately guide humanity towards truth and compassion.
In his message, Shri Imthiyaz Bhukari highlighted that India stands for unity in diversity and that secularism is a foundational value of the nation. He stressed the need to protect the integrity of all religions, to cultivate mutual respect, and to actively promote love and understanding among people of different faith traditions.
Brahmakumari Kavitha, who was present for the program, spoke on the importance of seeing all religions with equal respect, noting that every religion promotes peace. Using the symbol of lighting a lamp, she explained that though lights may appear many, the source is one God, reminding everyone that all human beings are brothers and sisters.
In his presidential address, Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, reflected on the mystery of the Incarnation, stating that God became man and came down to make humanity new. He illustrated his message with the simple example of a child and an airplane, drawing attention to the humility of the Christ Child. He recalled that Jesus was not first recognized by the rich or the arrogant, but by the humble shepherds, teaching that pride prevents people from becoming truly human. He emphasized the importance of organizing such interreligious programs to foster unity, humility, and harmony in society. The performances were well appreciated by the gathering and conveyed a strong message of communal harmony and goodwill.
The program was coordinated under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Edwin Paul D’Souza, IRD Secretary, with Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes, PRO, and the dedicated efforts of all the team members. The master of ceremony was Saver Fernandes, and a vote of thanks was given by Monthi Dsouza, whose cooperation ensured the smooth and meaningful conduct of the celebration.
The children of Nirmala Hrudaya School and the children of Kone Church, along with the youth and women, through their melodious carol singing and vibrant dance performances, conveyed the true importance and message of Christmas to the gathering.
The Sauhardh Christmas Celebration stood as a powerful reminder that Christmas is a season that invites everyone to walk together in peace, understanding, and fraternity, becoming instruments of hope and joy in society.
