At the annual interreligious gathering titled ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ held on 16 October 2026, at the Guardian Angel Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology (GAIHMCT), Curchorem, Goa, Revered Snehal Ji from Chinmaya Mission, Curchorem, stated that “Peace is our Nature.” In her inspiring address, she urged the audience to cultivate mindfulness and compassion in their daily lives, underscoring that when individuals radiate inner peace, it transforms society as a whole.
Mufti Mohammad Zafar Raza Misbahi, a Maulana at the Sunni Jamiya Masjid, Curchorem, exhorted the gathering to reflect on the purpose of human existence. He asked, “When humans came into the world and began living here, what were they searching for?” Answering his own question, he noted that humanity has always sought peace and harmony, adding that divisive forces must be kept at bay by strengthening unity.
In the context of the event’s theme, “Strengthening Goa’s communal harmony in times of growing hate speech,” Fr. Mateus Fernandes, former Provincial of the Goa Province, read a few lines from the Epistle of St. James, which compares the human tongue to a small spark capable of setting a massive forest ablaze. He remarked, “Though the tongue is a small part of the body, it carries immense destructive or constructive weight,” and called upon all present to choose words that unite.
All three speakers – representing the Hindu, Islamic, and Christian faith traditions – underlined that Goa’s true strength lies in its centuries-old tradition of communal harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. They urged the gathering to reject hate speech, embrace dialogue, and build bridges of friendship across communities in the true spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by a welcome address by Fr. Richard Crasto, Headmaster of Guardian Angel High School. Fr. Elvis Fernandes, convenor of Sadbhav, shared insights into the significance of the gathering, stating, “God is one, and we are journeying on different paths towards Him; humanity is one, while faith is expressed in diverse ways”.
The event featured a rich lineup of cultural performances, including: a devotional dance by students of Guardian Angel High School; a creative presentation by Guardian Angel Higher Secondary School, Curchorem; an instrumental piece by students of Sarvodaya Educational Society’s High School, Curchorem; a patriotic dance by Chandrabhaga Tukoba Naik (C.T.N.) High School, Curchorem; and a patriotic song rendered by students of GAIHMCT, Curchorem.
Mr. Raynold D’Souza, Principal of GAIHMCT, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved, especially acknowledging the collaborating institutions and their heads for their support. He concluded by urging everyone to actively continue working toward interfaith harmony and peace.
