Multi-Faith Festival at ISI Bengaluru Unites Communities in Celebration of Shared Spirituality

Bengaluru, 10 April 2025 – In a vibrant celebration of spiritual and cultural diversity, the Indian Social Institute (ISI), Bengaluru, hosted a heartwarming Multi-Faith Festival on 8 April at its Benson Road campus. 

Organised in collaboration with various faith groups, civil society organisations (CSOs), and social activists, the event brought together people from all walks of life to celebrate Eid, Ugadi, Ram Navami, Mahavir Jayanti, Baisakhi, Naw-Rúz, and Easter. Fr. Selvaraj Arulnathan, Director of ISI Bengaluru, welcomed the gathering and underlined the importance of working together for peace. 

A Shared Symbol of Harmony

The programme began with faith leaders and dignitaries watering a plant together, symbolising the shared responsibility to nurture peace, harmony, and ecological wellbeing.

A Message of Unity from Archbishop Machado

Archbishop Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore and Guest of Honour, delivered an inspiring message.

“Festivals are the heartbeat of every culture. Love, mercy and compassion are common to all religions. By fighting with each other, we don't gain anything. But love, sacrifice, compassion and mercy give us reason to live with others,” he said.

Voices from Diverse Faiths

The event featured reflections and blessings from representatives of various religious communities:

• Mr. Arif Vakil shared insights on Eid, highlighting peace and gratitude.

• Mr. Baljit Singh Bhasin spoke on Baisakhi, celebrating Sikh values.

• Ms. S.P. Malini reflected on Mahavir Jayanti, emphasising Jain principles of non-violence and truth.

• Mr. Dinesh Rao of the Bahá'í faith marked Naw-Rúz as a celebration of unity and renewal.

• Mr. Jigmey Tsultrim, accompanied by Buddhist monks, offered chants rooted in compassion.

• Sister Bhavana, representing the Brahma Kumaris, shared thoughts on inner peace and harmony.

Cultural Expressions of Unity

The cultural segment brought life and colour to the event. A graceful Bharatanatyam performance by Shakti Shivani and Kiran Shiny captivated the audience. Aparoop set a soulful tone with Sufi music, while Mahir and his team performed a compelling skit on interfaith dialogue. Poet Minati Pradhan shared verses on empathy and coexistence.

Dialogue and Reflection

A thought-provoking panel discussion featuring representatives from different faiths focused on shared values and the importance of dialogue in an increasingly divided world. A heartfelt note of gratitude by Fr. Denzil Fernandes SJ, Head of the Peace and Reconciliation Unit, acknowledged the contributions of all participants, artists, and faith leaders.

The Multi-Faith Festival stood as a testament to the possibility of unity in diversity. Through shared celebrations, the event encouraged a collective journey toward peace, compassion, and community spirit.

By Amith Pereira