Mangaluru: St Joseph’s Institute of Philosophy (SJIP), Jeppu, in collaboration with the Chair in Christianity (CIC), Mangalore University, organised an interreligious exposure programme under the theme “Exploring Religions: A Journey Across Faiths and Traditions.”

The initiative was part of the World Religions programme, aimed at providing students of philosophy with first-hand experience of diverse religious practices and cultural expressions.

Visits to places of worship

During the exposure visit, students toured several sacred sites in and around Mangaluru, including:

  • Ramakrishna Mission and Math, Mangaladevi

  • Shri Digambar Jain Temple, Bunder

  • Zeenath Baksh Jumma Masjid, Bunder

  • Kudroli Gokarnath Temple

  • Brahma Kumaris Centre, Urwa

  • Bangara Gurudwara, Kuloor

  • St Francis Xavier Church, Bejai

  • Sri Manjunatha Temple, Kadri

  • Thousand Pillars Temple (Saavira Kambada Basadi), Moodbidri

    • At each venue, representatives of respective faiths shared insights into their history, spiritual practices, and core values, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding.

    Students gain new perspectives

    The programme provided a living classroom experience, transforming theoretical learning into a tangible engagement with religious traditions.

    One student reflected, “When I entered the Brahma Kumaris centre, I realised how prayer unites people beyond language and culture.” Another spoke of their visit to the Gurudwara, saying, “The spirit of service in the langar reminded me how small acts of kindness can create bonds stronger than words.”

    From Islamic prayer practices at Zeenath Baksh Masjid to the message of service at Ramakrishna Mission, and from the artistic grandeur of Jain and Hindu temples to the architectural heritage of St Francis Xavier Church, students witnessed the beauty of India’s diverse spiritual landscape.

    Building bridges of understanding

    What began as an academic exercise evolved into a profound journey of openness, mutual respect and shared human values. Faculty members observed that such initiatives help future leaders appreciate diversity and work towards interfaith harmony.

    Conclusion

    The interreligious exposure programme left a lasting impression on the students of SJIP, inspiring them to become bridge-builders across cultural and religious boundaries, and reinforcing the message that peace and compassion are values shared by all faiths.