Bidar, 18 December 2025:
The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Bidar Unit, under the Diocese of Gulbarga, successfully organised “Shanthidootha – An Inter-Religious Christmas Programme” on 18 December 2025 at the Poojya Sri Channabasava Pattadevaru Ranga Mandir, Bidar. The programme was a meaningful initiative aimed at promoting peace, harmony, and brotherhood among people of different faiths, in the true spirit of Christmas.
The programme commenced at 5:15 p.m. and witnessed the gracious presence of religious leaders, government officials, youth representatives, and members of various faith communities. The gathering stood as a powerful testimony to unity in diversity and mutual respect among religions.
The event was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Robert Michael Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga. His presence and message inspired the youth and the gathering to become messengers of peace and hope in society. The programme was blessed with divine grace by Poojya Mate Akka Sharadamma of Basavakalyan and Rev. M. P. Jayapaul, Ex-District Superintendent of the Methodist Church, Bidar South.
The Chief Guest, Sri Mukul Jain, IAS, Commissioner, Corporation of Bidar, addressed the gathering and appreciated the initiative of ICYM in fostering inter-religious harmony, especially among the youth. The Shanthidootha Award was conferred on Sri M. D. Shakeel, KAS, Assistant Commissioner, Bidar, in recognition of his dedicated service and contribution towards peace and communal harmony.
Several distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Sri Manprit Singh, Proprietor of Inspira SRS Resort & Convention Hall; Rev. Fr. Steavan SDB, Rector, Don Bosco, Bidar; Sri Rahul Nandi, Class-I Contractor, PWD; Rev. Fr. Sachin Christy, Secretary, Youth Commission, Diocese of Gulbarga; Sr. Maria Swetha A.C., Superior, Maria Nilaya Convent, Bidar; Sri Sudhir Unnikrishnan, Secretary, Diocesan Pastoral Council, Gulbarga; Sri Suresh N. Doddi, President, Catholic Association, Bidar; and Miss Nikitha, Joint Secretary, REXCO, Bangalore.
The programme included cultural presentations and messages highlighting the values of peace, compassion, service, and coexistence, which lie at the heart of all religions. The youth played a vital role in organising and coordinating the programme, reflecting the active leadership and commitment of ICYM Bidar Unit.
Rev. Fr. Clary D’Souza, Dean of Bidar Deanery, extended a warm invitation and encouragement to the youth and participants. The ICYM leadership, including Miss Riya, Youth President (St. Joseph Church, Bidar), Sr. Priya D’Souza, Lady Animator, ICYM Bidar Unit, and Miss Veena Yeshwanth, Youth President (Sacred Heart Church), actively contributed to the success of the programme.
Shanthidootha truly lived up to its name—“Messenger of Peace”—by spreading the Christmas message of love, goodwill, and harmony across religious boundaries. The programme concluded with heartfelt Christmas and New Year greetings, wishing everyone a joyful, grace-filled Christmas and a blessed New Year 2026.
