Verghese V Joseph –
Dona Paula: Our Lady of the Rosary Higher Secondary School (HSS) in Dona Paula, Goa recently hosted an impactful event titled ‘Guldasta’, aimed at promoting inter-religious solidarity and harmony among its students. This initiative was organized in collaboration with the Solidarity Forum of the Society of Pilar, and it successfully engaged over 350 students in its activities, reflecting a strong commitment to fostering peace and understanding within the school community.
The program commenced with a traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the dispelling of ignorance and the welcoming of knowledge. Dr. Fr. Elvis Fernandes, one of the key speakers at the event, performed the garlanding of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing the foundational values of democracy and respect for all beliefs. Sr. Manisha Parmar, Principal of Our Lady of the Rosary HSS, delivered a warm welcome to attendees and underscored the essential need for harmony among diverse religions in today’s society.
Scholastic Robinson Pacheco, who serves as the coordinator for the Solidarity Forum, provided insights into the objectives behind ‘Guldasta’. He articulated that the program was designed not only to celebrate religious diversity but also to deepen understanding and respect among different faiths. Following this introduction, Dr. Fr. Elvis Fernandes addressed the assembly with a compelling talk on respecting religious diversity. His presentation included an engaging exercise that encouraged participants to reflect on their own beliefs while appreciating those of others.
Architect Tallulah D’silva contributed to the event by guiding a session on mindful meditation, which highlighted inner peace as a pathway to outer harmony. This segment was particularly well-received, as it provided practical tools for students to cultivate peace within themselves and their interactions with others.
A significant portion of the program featured testimonials from students Falaknaz Jakati, Reshma Pawar, and Chriselle Pereira. Each shared personal stories reflecting their experiences with inter-religious solidarity and how these interactions have enriched their lives. These narratives not only illustrated the program’s impact but also inspired their peers to engage more deeply with individuals from different backgrounds.
The celebration culminated in a vibrant folk dance performed by students, which symbolized India’s rich tapestry of cultures coexisting peacefully. This artistic expression served as a reminder of the beauty found in diversity and collective unity.
In recognition of the dignitaries’ contributions, the school presented tokens of appreciation to them, acknowledging their efforts in promoting inter-religious dialogue and understanding. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Lalita Oli, Assistant General Secretary, followed by the singing of the national anthem, which resonated with themes of unity and patriotism.
The ‘Guldasta’ program at Our Lady of the Rosary HSS exemplifies a proactive approach towards nurturing inter-religious harmony among youth. By engaging students in meaningful dialogue and activities that celebrate diversity, such initiatives play a crucial role in building a more inclusive society. The collaborative efforts between educational institutions and organizations like the Solidarity Forum are vital for fostering environments where mutual respect and understanding can flourish among future generations.
Needs replication across the board