In commemoration of the birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India, the AICUF Cell organized ‘Sadbahavana Diwas’ — a day to celebrate the brotherhood shared by individuals following diverse ways of life and religious beliefs – in the Seminar Hall of the College. The theme chosen for the celebration was ‘Sacred Journeys, Shared Hope’.
The day began with the enthronement of the Holy Books – The Quran, Bhagwad Gita and The Holy Bible. The Administrator of St. Xavier’s College, Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema welcomed the gathering and highlighted the essence of Sadbahavana Diwas. The Principal, Ma’am Ursula Barreto addressed the gathering and lauded the efforts of the AICUF in continuing the beautiful celebration of ‘Sadbhavana’ this year as well. This was followed by the three student speakers Mr. Joshua Braganza, Miss Sumaiya Khan and Miss Ayushi Nemlekar reading a verse from the Holy Bible, the Quran and the Bhagwad Gita respectively. Each of the three speakers chose a verse on ‘hope’ and they went on to explain the meaning and interpretation of the respective verses read by them. The choir added to the prayerful atmosphere through their soulful singing. Miss Linnes Rodrigues recited a meaningful poem titled ‘Ek Duje ke Vaaste’ composed by her, wherein she beautifully depicted that we have to build bridges of fraternal care and concern as we walk together in harmony.
In his address, the Chief Guest Rev. Fr. Dr. Ivon D. Almeida emphasized on the need to uphold the spirit true of Sadbhavana not just in the context of diverse religious beliefs but also in the aspect of one’s own well-being. He creatively explained that Sadbhavana begins with one’s own self when one chooses to have clean thoughts without any malice towards others. The Principal Ma’am Ursula Barreto, the Administrator Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema, the Convener of the AICUF Cell Rev. Fr. Ramiro Luis and the teacher representatives of AICUF were present throughout the programme. A large number of students were present in the Seminar Hall to witness this auspicious day. The co-ordinator of AICUF Mr. Joel Fernandes delivered the vote of thanks. Tokens of appreciation and gratitude were presented to the Chief guest and the three speakers.
At the entrance of the seminar hall was kept an artwork called ‘Sadbhavana Diwas Garden’ which had flowers containing messages on what the participants were hopeful towards. Each one present in the Seminar Hall joined in taking the Sadbhavana pledge administered by the AICUF co-coordinator Miss Gizane Menezes. The celebration concluded with the singing of the College Anthem.
