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Thottam, June 18, 2024 – It was a day of joy for our Muslim brethren as they celebrated the Festival of Bakrid which is the commemoration of prophet Abraham’s Love and Sacrifice. It was a day of interfaith celebration too as the members of the Inter Religious Committee of Thottam - the Samanvaya Sarvadharma Sauharda Samithi gathered at the residence of it’s vice President Mr Nakwa Yahya to express Solidarity and Brotherhood, Peace and harmony. About 75 persons from various religious and cultural backgrounds participated in this simple but meaningful celebration.  The event was focused on the spirit of unity and mutual respect among people of all faiths. 

The celebration commenced with an inclusive Inter religious prayer led by Fr. Denis D’Sa, the honorary president of the Inter Religious Committee.  Dr. Parvez, professor in Islamic Studies and the host, delivered and inspiring message. He narrated the historical background of the feast. He also said that this feast invites us to love, to give and to forgive. He said that all of us are called to promote humanity and humanness. 

Rev. Edwin Joseph, pastor, CSI Ebenezer Church, Maple, said that Bakrid is nothing but a festival of love and sacrifice. He explained this point through a couple of day to day examples. He conveyed the Festal greetings to the Muslim friends gathered for the celebration. Mr Ramesh Thingalaya, president of Samanvaya Souharda samithi greeted the Muslim brethren on behalf of the Samithi. He said that after the birth of this Sauharda Samithi in October 2023 we have come come to know each other better and have come closer thus facilitating peace and harmony in the vicinity of Thottam. This move has motivated many others too to join hands with the Samithi in the promotion of peace and harmony. He said that festivals like this bring people together as they are universal languages. He wished the Muslim friends God’s choicest blessings.

Mr Leslie Auroza, the Secretary of the Samithi Compered the program and proposed the vote of thanks.

A sumptuous dinner was hosted by Mr Nakwa Yahya and family to all the invitees. Later every guest was presented with a copy of the Holy Quran. 

It was indeed a meaningful and relevant celebration.