Sauharda Christmas Programme Celebrated with Interfaith Harmony at St Aloysius ITI

Mangaluru: The Sauharda Christmas Celebration 2025 was celebrated with great joy, harmony and a strong message of interfaith unity at St Aloysius Industrial Training Institute, Mangaluru, on December 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. The programme was organised with the objective of spreading the true spirit of Christmas — love, peace, unity and mutual respect among people of all faiths.

Dignitaries from multiple faiths grace the occasion

The celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr. John D’Souza SJ, Director, St. Aloysius ITI. Reflecting the essence of Sauharda (harmony), the programme was graced by Chief Guests representing different religious traditions:

Mr. Naveen Shanthi, Archak, Sri Gokarnatheshwara Temple, Kudroli
Mr. Muhammed Ashiq Saqafi Al-Malhari, Religious Scholar, Ranganakere, Udupi
Rev. Dr. Sandeep Theophil, Registrar, Karnataka Theological College, Balmatta

The programme was further honoured by the presence of Sr. Luciana, DK District Rajyotsava Awardee, and Sr. Benedicta Fernandes. Also present were Mr. Roshan D’Souza, Principal; Mr. Noel Lobo and Mr. Wilson N, Training Officers; Mr. Melwin D’Souza, Convener of the programme; and Mr. Rivan D’Souza, President, Student Council.

Prayer, welcome and inauguration

The programme began with a prayer song led by EM first-year students, invoking God’s blessings and setting a serene and spiritual tone for the celebration. This was followed by a warm welcome address by the Principal, Mr. Roshan D’Souza.

The celebration was formally inaugurated with the Christmas cake-cutting ceremony, symbolising joy, sharing and togetherness. The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by melodious Christmas carols sung by the Sewing Technology students, filling the campus with cheer and enthusiasm.

Felicitation and cultural celebrations

A special highlight of the programme was the felicitation of Sr. Luciana in recognition of her dedicated service to society and her inspirational contribution to the community. The felicitation was conducted with dignity and gratitude.

Various competitions such as Star Making, Christmas Carol Singing and Greeting Card Making were organised as part of the celebrations, encouraging creativity and active participation among students. The prize distribution ceremony was led by Mr. Noel Lobo, Training Officer, and Mr. Alwyn Menezes, Vice Principal.

Messages of peace and unity

The programme was enriched by inspiring Christmas messages delivered by the Chief Guests. Mr. Naveen Shanthi, Mr. Muhammed Ashiq Saqafi Al-Malhari and Rev. Dr. Sandeep Theophil emphasised values of love, compassion, peace, mutual respect and harmony, highlighting the importance of coexistence among people of all religions.

A special attraction was the Christmas carols sung by the staff members, which added warmth and joy to the celebration.

Presidential address and conclusion

In his presidential address, Rev. Fr. John D’Souza SJ spoke about the relevance of Christmas values in today’s world and encouraged students to practise kindness, humility and service in their daily lives. The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Melwin D’Souza, Convener, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, management, staff, students and organisers.

The Sauharda Christmas Celebration 2025 concluded on a joyful note, leaving behind cherished memories and reinforcing the message of peace, unity and goodwill. The Christmas crib displayed on the occasion was beautifully prepared by MMV first-year students.