St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, celebrated Sadbhavana Diwas 2026 on 17th August under the theme “Many Paths, One Humanity.” Organised by AICUF, the programme aimed to promote communal harmony, national integration and mutual respect among people of diverse religions, cultures, languages and traditions.
The programme, held at the Seminar Hall, began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by addresses by the Administrator, Rev. Fr. Antonio Salema, and Officiating Principal, Ms. Ursula Barreto. A highlight of the celebration was an Interfaith Scripture Reading and Reflection, featuring student representatives Ms. Donella Angel Fernandes, Ms. Kashish Shaikh and Ms. Sneha Subhash Sawai, representing three different faith traditions. The reflections focused on peace, harmony, understanding and shared human values.
The celebration also featured an a cappella rendition of “Heal the World” by the college choir, a solo dance by Ms. Gresal, and a patriotic solo, “Ae Watan, Tere Liye,” by Ms. Divyashree of SYBCA.
The Chief Guest, Rev. Fr. Elvis Hilton Fernandes sfx, Convenor of SADBHAV Pilar , spoke on India’s cultural and linguistic diversity and reflected on the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family.” The Vote of thanks was proposed by the programme coordinator, Ms Lizanne. The programme concluded with the Sadbhavana Pledge, Vote and the National Anthem.
The celebration brought together students, AICUF members, NSS volunteers, faculty and the organising team, providing a meaningful platform to celebrate diversity and reaffirm the values of peace, harmony, dialogue and fraternity.
