Team Goemkarponn
PILAR: Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar, in collaboration with Sadbhav, an interfaith initiative of the Society of Pilar, organised an interfaith programme titled “Sadbhav Milan” with the aim of fostering peace, unity and mutual respect among people of different faiths.
Held at the Heritage Hall of the college, the programme witnessed the participation of students and staff, providing a platform for dialogue and understanding. The event was graced by Dr. Fr. Elvis Fernandes, Convenor of Sadbhav, as the keynote speaker, along with Dr. Fr. Fredrick Rodrigues, Principal of Fr. Agnel College, and Dr. Resham Bhambra, IQAC Coordinator.
The programme began with a soulful rendition of “Take Me to the River” by students Vaibhavi Dicholkar and Siya Almeida, setting a reflective tone. In his keynote address, Fr. Elvis Fernandes underlined the importance of interfaith dialogue in contemporary society, stating that meaningful conversations among different faiths are essential to counter division and promote harmony.
A panel discussion moderated by Asst. Prof. Jisha Ponnachan featured student panelists Swizel Fernandes, Daniella Rozario, Vansh Naik, Sahil Awasthi, Saniya Shaikh and Mehrunnisha Siddiqui, representing Christianity, Hinduism and Islam. The panel discussed faith-based traditions, common misconceptions, generational perspectives, the role of social media and shared values such as love, forgiveness and service.
The event was coordinated by Ms. Irene George, College Counsellor, and Asst. Prof. Jisha Ponnachan. Speaking on the occasion, Principal Dr. Fr. Fredrick Rodrigues said the college remains committed to promoting unity in diversity and nurturing socially responsible citizens.
Sadbhav Milan concluded with a reaffirmation that peace, empathy and coexistence are universal values cutting across all religions, strengthening the message of harmony and mutual respect among the youth.
