St Aloysius PU College celebrates unity and harmony on Bakrid

Mangaluru: Bakrid celebrations by the Centre for Interreligious Harmony at St Aloysius Pre-University College commenced with a meticulously planned week-long program that included a vibrant Mehendi competition, and an enchanting Crescent Moon Dream Catcher competition. The students actively engaged in these events, displaying remarkable enthusiasm and making a significant contribution to the overall success of the festivities. The Alangana was adorned with exquisitely crafted dream catchers, enhancing the joyous ambience of the Eid celebrations.

The significance of Eid ul Adha was conveyed to all students through a prayer service during the morning assembly.
The Centre for Inter-religious Harmony further enhanced the festivities by organizing a small gathering of its student members to celebrate Eid ul Adha in the college auditorium. The program was presided over by Rev. Father Clifford Sequeira SJ, the principal. The esteemed guests, Shameera Banu and Afra Maryam, along with the Coordinator of the Centre for Interreligious Harmony, Ashwini Shetty, were present.

The celebration began with a prayer service, which included a prayer song performed by the college choir. This was followed by a reading from the Holy Quran by Shifaz of IIPU. Joanne of I PU delivered a reflection, and Niha Fahim Noor, lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, recited a prayer. The significance of Eid was explained by Arfiya of I PU. The college choir entertained the gathering with a medley of Eid songs.

Guest speaker Afra Maryam emphasized the story of Allah and Ibrahim, highlighting the true meaning of sacrifice and fasting. In his presidential address, the Principal narrated a story about the essential qualities an individual should possess to live a fulfilling life and extended his Eid greetings to the students.

Rithika, the student convener of the Centre, warmly welcomed the gathering, while Sanchia of II PU delivered the vote of thanks and also served as the program’s emcee. The college council bearers, staff, and other students were also present to join in the celebrations. The celebration concluded on a sweet note with the distribution of Sheer Khurma.