Deepavali Celebration: 2021 “Celebrating Diversity – Celebrating Bharat”

6 October 2021 | CMI Bhavan, New Delhi

Organised by Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi

On 6th October 2021, the Chavara Cultural Centre, Delhi organized an Inter-Religious Deepavali Celebration at CMI Bhavan, New Delhi, under the inspiring theme “Celebrating Diversity – Celebrating Bharat” and the guiding motto “Accept, Respect and Celebrate Diversity. ” The celebration highlighted the profound spiritual meaning of Deepavali as the triumph of light over darkness, truth over ignorance, and hope over despair. The event was conducted during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. In adherence to health protocols, only about 30–40 participants were physically present, while others joined in spirit and solidarity. Despite the restrictions, the atmosphere was deeply prayerful and spiritually uplifting. The celebration was graced by eminent dignitaries including Shri K. P. Fabian, Former Ambassador to Italy and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Rome; Dr. Jitendra Singh, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha; Dr. Janardhan Nair, President, INROHM and National Awardee (Government of India); Smt. Rajkumari Dhillon, Hon’ble MLA, Hari Nagar; Shri Amarjeet Singh, Chairman/Manager, TEGT, New Delhi; and Pandit Kunnvarpal Upadhyaya, Chief Priest, Arya Samaj Mandir, Delhi. The Presidential Address was delivered by Rev. Anto Kanjirathinkal CMI, Superior of CMI Bhavan, New Delhi, who emphasized that the light of faith must inspire collective responsibility toward building a peaceful and inclusive society. In his message, Rev. Fr. Roby Kannamchirayil CMI, Director of the Chavara Cultural Centre, highlighted that the divine light of truth and love must dispel the darkness of ignorance from human hearts and strengthen bonds of fraternity. Adding a deeply devotional dimension to the celebration, bhajans were beautifully managed and sung by Rev. Fr. Prasanth Palakkappillil, former Principal of Sacred Heart College, Thevara, Kochi. His soulful rendering created a serene and contemplative ambiance, reinforcing the shared spiritual essence of all faith traditions. The programme included interfaith prayers and readings from the Holy Books of different religions, symbolizing unity, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for peace and harmony. The gathering reflected India’s pluralistic ethos, bringing together leaders and representatives of diverse faith traditions on one platform to reaffirm common values of compassion, justice, and fraternity.The celebration concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks by Rev. Fr. Thomas Kollikolavil CMI, Director of CEVA, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, religious leaders, participants, and collaborators for their presence and encouragement during such unprecedented times.