Pilar (Goa): The recently-concluded ‘Sadbhav Sammelan 2024,’ a national interfaith conference held at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre Pilar, saw an impassioned call for unity and equality from Mr. Jaspal Singh, IPS, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Goa.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Mr. Singh underscored the fundamental principle of equality, stating, “God has created us of the same sand and all are equal, all are God’s image and all have to merge in the same sand.” His words resonated with over 150 delegates who participated in the two-day conference aimed at fostering dialogue, harmony, solidarity, and fellowship among diverse faith communities.
Reflecting on the essence of the Indian Constitution and the ethos of inclusivity it embodies, Mr. Singh emphasised that conflicts in the world could be mitigated through forums like the ‘Sadbhav Sammelan,’ which provide a platform for dialogue and understanding. He stressed that the Constitution of India upholds the principles of equality and inclusion, offering rights to all citizens irrespective of their backgrounds.
The theme of the conference, “Diversity and Inclusion,” encapsulated the spirit of the event, which brought together individuals from various faiths and walks of life. Dr. Elvis Fernandes, Convenor of ‘Sadbhav,’ highlighted the conference’s objective to promote peaceful coexistence and communal harmony through academic discourse, cultural exchange, and interfaith dialogue.
The conference featured a range of activities, including keynote addresses, panel discussions, workshops, and cultural performances. Dr. A. K. Merchant, General Secretary of the Temple of Understanding India Foundation, delivered a keynote address on fostering inter-religious coexistence and harmony. Panel discussions on the challenges to inter-religious harmony provided a platform for meaningful dialogue moderated by eminent personalities.
Workshops on conflict management and exploring unconscious biases aimed at equipping participants with tools to address societal challenges. Paper presentations delved into topics such as bridging divides and strengthening inter-religious trust and respect, further enriching the discourse.
Cultural performances by students added vibrancy to the event, showcasing the rich diversity of India’s cultural tapestry. The conference concluded with profound insights shared by academic luminaries, reinforcing the commitment to fostering communal harmony and solidarity.
The ‘Sadbhav Sammelan 2024’ served as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals to work towards building a more inclusive and harmonious society. The event received overwhelming support from students, academicians, and delegates across the country, underscoring the importance of dialogue and collaboration in promoting peace and understanding among diverse communities.
Very nice
Photo titles would have made it more interesting