Sahodaya 2024: Cultural fusion for unity

On : 2024-05-28

The Sahodaya-2024, held from May 19-23 in Mundgod, was coordinated by Sch. Arun Lobo and his team under the theme ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿಗಳ ಮಿಲನ, ಐಕ್ಯತೆಯ ಸಾಧನ (Cultural fusion: A tool for unity). The event began with a vibrant cultural dance by children from the Siddhi community, followed by the welcoming address and the unveiling of the Sahodaya logo.

The programme featured inspiring talks and enriching discussions on the impact of culture. Highlights included Vidwan Imam Saheb’s presentation on Janapadha, Fr Anil Almeida’s thematic address, and experiences shared by Frs Johnson Pinto SJ, Anil D’Souza and Jerald D’Souza SJ about Mundgod Mission. Mrs. Isabella Xavier highlighted the works done by Jesuits, and Vidwan Ramu Mulagi raised awareness through Janapadha. Cultural performances by Siddhi, Gowli, and Lamabani communities were well received.

The village outreach programme emphasised social engagement, with scholastics visiting five villages to interact with elders, youth, and children. Fourteen junior were also welcomed during the Sahodaya gathereing. Besides, the newly ordained priests were given a farewell.

The final day, May 23, included an evaluation of Sahodaya-2024 and the selection of coordinators for Sahodaya 2025. Provincial, Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, in his address to scholastics, encouraged mission-driven leadership, emotional maturity, forward-thinking, physical health, and holistic growth. The event concluded with the transfer of office of PCF from Fr Francis Fernandes SJ to Fr Pratap Chandru SJ, who proposed initiatives such as a book club. The event concluded with a holy Eucharistic presided over by Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ.

- Sch. Anvil Mascarenhas SJ