Mangaluru: St Aloysius Pre-University College came alive with colours, music, and devotion as it hosted ARMADHAM 2025, a unique celebration that brought together three festivals—Onam, Ganesh Chaturthi, and the Feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary. Organised by the Malayalam Association in collaboration with the Campus Ministry and the Centre for Inter-Religious Harmony, the event showcased the beauty of diversity and the values of love, gratitude, and togetherness.
A prayerful beginning
The programme began with a solemn prayer song by the college choir, followed by the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, Principal, along with Campus Minister Rev. Fr Antony Derrick SJ, Vice Principals, and Deans. This symbolic gesture marked the auspicious start of the day’s festivities.
Nativity skit and message of gratitude
The Feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary was portrayed through a moving skit, accompanied by hymns and dance. The performance symbolised new harvest, gratitude, and sacrifice, while reflecting Mary’s maternal grace and the values of family, generosity, and faith.
In his address, Principal Rev. Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ highlighted the essence of celebrating three festivals together. He reminded students of King Maveli’s compassion during Onam, the values of faith and sacrifice in Monti Fest, and the symbolism of family bonds in Ganesh Chaturthi. He also urged everyone to nurture the girl child, linking the Nativity Feast to the Day of the Girl Child, while emphasising the importance of cherishing cultural heritage and spending time with loved ones.
Vibrant cultural performances
The spirit of Onam filled the campus with traditional and modern performances. The graceful Thiruvathira dance won hearts with its elegance, while the thunderous beats of the Chenda Melam electrified the atmosphere. A creative rap performance offered a refreshing modern twist, blending tradition with contemporary expression. The festivities concluded with a lively flash mob, bringing students and staff together in cheer.
Celebration of unity in diversity
The event reflected the cultural mosaic of India, where multiple faiths and traditions coexist harmoniously. Through skits, music, and dance, the Aloysian community celebrated not just rituals but also the deeper values of gratitude, love, and unity.
ARMADHAM 2025 concluded on a high note with the voices of students and staff joining in the College Anthem, symbolising the spirit of faith, festivity, and fellowship.
