- 27 December, 2025
Bareilly, Dec 27, 2025: Christmas Mahotsav has been an annual and much-awaited cultural event in Bareilly, celebrating the spirit of Christmas along with India’s rich social and moral values. This year’s Mahotsav, held on 21 and 22 December, witnessed enthusiastic participation and overwhelming public support, with thousands of citizens attending and appreciating the programs presented by students.
The two-day event showcased a series of cultural, social, and value-based performances centered on themes of national integration, social reform, and human dignity. The programs included Christmas carols, folk and cultural dances, and dance dramas highlighting inspiring personalities and pressing social issues such as Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Khan Sir, Anandi Gopal Joshi—the first woman doctor of India, Mother Teresa, the Indian Women’s Cricket Team, Empowerment of the Girl Child, Care for the Elderly, Problems of Addiction, Our Soldiers—the Heroes at the Border, Ideal Family Values, and Episodes from “The Chosen”. An exhibition on Mother Earth emphasized environmental responsibility.
It is noteworthy that most of the performances addressed social concerns, national pride, moral responsibility, and human compassion, transcending religious boundaries. The overall message of Christmas Mahotsav was clear and consistent: peace, love, harmony, unity, and brotherhood.
The event was graced by distinguished chief guests, including the Hon’ble Mayor of Bareilly, the District Judge, and the CEO of Bareilly Cantonment, lending dignity and credibility to the occasion. The local media reported the event positively, acknowledging its inclusive spirit and strong social messaging.
However, a protest was organized on 24 December at around 5:00 pm, based on what appears to be a gross misreading and misinterpretation of the staged programs. This protest has raised serious concerns, especially since many respected citizens and friends from other religious communities have strongly condemned it, calling it unnecessary and unjustified.
What is particularly alarming is that this incident is not isolated. Reports suggest that nearly 60 incidents across the country this year have attempted to disrupt Christmas celebrations, reflecting a troubling trend where certain groups are taking the law into their own hands. Such actions threaten the constitutional values of religious freedom and peaceful coexistence.
Equally concerning is the silence of the ruling BJP regime on these repeated disruptions. As the highest constitutional authorities, the Prime Minister and the Home Minister have the power and responsibility to intervene, speak clearly against hate, and ensure lawful action against elements that seek to divide society and damage the social fabric of our beloved nation.
The question that must be asked is: Why should anyone feel threatened by the Christian minority, a community that has historically contributed immensely to education, healthcare, and social service in India? Peaceful cultural celebrations should never become targets of fear or hostility.
This protest deserves strong condemnation, and there is an urgent need for national leadership to publicly appeal for restraint, uphold constitutional values, and stop the spread of hatred and violence in the country. India’s strength lies in its diversity, and events like Christmas Mahotsav embody the very idea of unity in diversity.
Silence in the face of intolerance only emboldens divisive forces. The nation looks to its leaders to protect harmony, ensure justice, and reaffirm India’s commitment to pluralism and peace.
Bp. Ignatius D Souza
Bareilly
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