Udupi: Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar on Saturday emphasised that understanding the practices, beliefs and cultures of all religions is essential for spreading the message of peace and harmony in society. He was speaking after inaugurating the Christmas get-together organised by the Udupi Diocese for media representatives in the district.
Addressing journalists and invited guests, the SP described Christmas as a festival that goes beyond religious boundaries and is celebrated collectively by people of all communities. He said such occasions offer an opportunity to reflect on shared human values and strengthen bonds among different sections of society.
Christmas reflects collective celebration, says SP
Hariram Shankar said that festivals like Christmas underline the idea that unity and peace form the core message of all religions. “Across the world, the fundamental objective of every religion is to strengthen social unity and promote harmony,” he said.
He noted that religion plays a vital role in shaping moral, social and spiritual values in society. According to him, these values help people live together with mutual respect and understanding, especially in a diverse country like India.
The SP called upon citizens to join hands in building a strong and united India, stressing that peace can be sustained only when people respect each other’s faiths and traditions. He added that law enforcement agencies also have a responsibility to ensure that harmony is maintained and that dialogue prevails over conflict.
Message of unity highlighted at the programme
Speaking further, Hariram Shankar said that gatherings such as the Christmas get-together organised by the Udupi Diocese serve as platforms for interaction and understanding among people from different backgrounds. He appreciated the diocese for bringing together members of the media and community leaders to mark the occasion.
He said that the presence of journalists at such events was significant, as the media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and promoting messages of peace and coexistence.
Bishop recalls teachings of Jesus Christ
Presiding over the programme, Bishop of the Udupi Diocese, Most Rev Gerald Isaac Lobo, reflected on the spiritual significance of Christmas. He said that Lord Jesus left His heavenly kingdom and was born in a manger to restore humanity to God at a time when people had drifted away and were struggling with sin.
Recalling the teachings of Jesus Christ, the Bishop said that those who strive for peace on Earth are blessed. He urged people to live by these teachings in their daily lives and work towards creating a society rooted in compassion, forgiveness and love.
He added that Christmas serves as a reminder of humility and service to others, values that are relevant not only to Christians but to people of all faiths.
Felicitation of journalists’ association office bearers
During the event, the newly elected office bearers of the Udupi District Working Journalists’ Association were felicitated by the Udupi Diocese. The diocese acknowledged the role of journalists in highlighting issues of public interest and contributing to an informed and responsible society.
MCC Bank president Anil Lobo and association president S G Kurya extended their Christmas greetings to those present and congratulated the office bearers on assuming their new responsibilities. They highlighted the importance of ethical journalism and constructive reporting in strengthening democracy.
Senior clergy and dignitaries present
Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves, senior priest of the Udupi Diocese, and Rev Steven D’Souza, vice-chancellor of the diocese, were present at the programme along with other clergy members and guests.
The event concluded in a cordial atmosphere, with participants exchanging Christmas greetings and expressing hope for peace, goodwill and harmony in the coming year.
Conclusion
The Christmas get-together organised by the Udupi Diocese served as a reminder of the shared values that unite people across religious and social boundaries. Through messages of peace, unity and mutual respect delivered by religious and civil leaders, the programme reinforced the idea that understanding and dialogue are essential for building a harmonious society in a diverse nation like India.