Mangaluru: The 77th Indian Republic Day was celebrated with solemn grandeur and deep patriotic fervour at Father Muller Charitable Institutions, where the front grounds were ceremoniously prepared for the early morning observance on January 26, 2026.
Flag unfurling and national salute
Rev. Dr Michael Santhumayour, Administrator of Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy and Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, unfurled the National Flag amid respectful silence and anticipation. The moment resonated with pride as the gathering stood united to sing the Indian National Anthem, Jan Gan Man, reaffirming their collective allegiance to the nation.
Reflection on constitutional values
Addressing the gathering, Rev. Dr Santhumayour reflected on India’s 76-year journey as a Republic, firmly anchored in the constitutional ideals of social justice, equality, and freedom of expression. He drew attention to contemporary societal challenges marked by division and intolerance, urging citizens to steadfastly uphold the Constitution of India.
Invoking the vision of B. R. Ambedkar, he emphasised the need to protect secularism as the cornerstone of India’s democratic fabric. He further recalled Rabindranath Tagore’s timeless vision of a nation rising in freedom of thought, reason, and unity, calling upon the audience to strive collectively towards that ideal.
Cultural and ceremonial highlights
The prayer song was reverently led by students of Father Muller College of Nursing, followed by a stirring patriotic rendition by students of Father Muller Medical College, adding depth and emotion to the celebrations.
A guard of honour was rendered by the Father Muller Security personnel. Their disciplined presence and blue attire offered a striking reminder of the ceremonial grandeur associated with national celebrations, evoking the spirit of Rajpath.
Inclusive participation
Members of the Management Committee, Advisory Board, and the Father Muller Charitable Centenary Society, along with faculty, staff, students, and well-wishers, gathered in large numbers. Patients and their attendants also joined the observance, pausing respectfully during the National Anthem, reflecting the inclusive and compassionate spirit of the institution.
The programme was gracefully compered by Dr Carol Thomas, First Year Resident from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, who maintained the dignity and patriotic tone of the event. Mrs Sushma, Physical Director, FMCON, assisted with the flag unfurling ceremony, while Dr Saritha Lobo, Head of Ophthalmology, presented a sapling memento to Rev. Dr Santhumayour as a symbol of growth and sustainability.
Dr Shivashankar A. R., Principal of Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, welcomed the gathering and presented a brief bio-sketch highlighting the academic, administrative, and cultural achievements of Rev. Dr Santhumayour.
A tradition of patriotism
In keeping with its long-standing tradition, Father Muller Charitable Institutions once again marked Republic Day with robust ceremonial spirit, reinforcing patriotism and a sense of national service within its institutional family. The celebrations concluded on a warm and joyful note with the distribution of special laddoos, evoking shared joy and fond memories among all present.
Father Muller Charitable Institutions extended heartfelt Republic Day greetings to all, wishing citizens a nationalism-filled Indian Republic Day and reaffirming their commitment to serving the nation and upholding its constitutional values.
