KRISTU MAHOTSAV 2024: A Heartwarming Celebration of Charity, Unity, and Inclusivity
New Delhi : The KRISTU MAHOTSAV 2024, a grand festival celebrating Christmas as the ‘festival of Christian charity’, was successfully held at Fr. Agnel School, Gautam Nagar, New Delhi. Organized by the Chavara Cultural Centre in collaboration with the Association of Catholic Rehabilitation Centres in India (ACRCI), the event brought together people from various communities to celebrate the spirit of inclusivity, compassion, and charity.
This year’s theme, “A Festival of Christian Charity – Include Everyone, Exclude None,” resonated throughout the evening, which was filled with inter-religious prayers, cultural performances, and various charity initiatives aimed at supporting specially-abled children and underprivileged individuals from Christian charitable organizations across Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
The event was graced by religious leaders from different faiths, including Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Buddhist, Bahai Faith, Jewish, Zoroastrian, Jain, and Christian communities. Their presence underscored the shared values of love, respect, and understanding that transcend religious boundaries. The leaders came together to promote the importance of interfaith harmony and the celebration of diversity. In particular, the specially-abled children illuminated the event with their amazing performances, demonstrating incredible talent and joy, filling the room with warmth and inspiration. Their resilience and spirit of celebration were a true reflection of the theme, “Include Everyone, Exclude None,” reminding all present of the power of inclusion.
Most Rev. Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, Archbishop of Delhi, graced the evening with a powerful message on the importance of recognizing the dignity of all individuals. He remarked, “God has created us equal, and every time we come across people who are differently-abled, we are reminded to acknowledge our shared humanity. The true reflection of God’s image in us is seen when we show compassion and understanding to those in need. Let us be grateful for the opportunity to learn from our children, who teach us the true meaning of love and compassion.”
Dr. Mallika Nadha, in her address, highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive society. She said, “Special Olympics Bharat is committed to ensuring that people with disabilities are not only included but also given opportunities to shine. Tonight’s celebration is a beautiful reminder of how we can all work together to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.”
Father Jose Alarico Carvalho, Director of Fr. Agnel School, expressed his gratitude for the event, highlighting the significance of Christmas as a celebration of love and compassion. He said, “Christmas always stands for the infinite love of God in Jesus Christ. The crib is a symbol of love, not power. The real power lies in the power of love, and that love is about sacrifice and selflessness. Let us remember that those who are differently-abled are equally a part of our society, and we must continue to affirm their dignity and worth.”
Father Roby Kannanchira CMI, Director of Chavara Cultural Centre, welcomed all attendees and emphasized the importance of inclusivity, saying, “Christmas is a call to humanity, a festival of love, inclusion, and compassion. Tonight is not just a celebration; it is a call to love unconditionally, to embrace inclusivity, and to serve others with an open heart. This celebration reminds us that no one, regardless of their background or ability, should ever feel forgotten.”
The event also welcomed esteemed guests, including Dr. Mallika Nadha, President of Special Olympics Bharat, Dr. Ikbal Singh Lalpura, Chairman of the National Minority Commission, and many other distinguished personalities.
