Belgaum Diocese Marks Independence Day with Interfaith Programmes

Belgaum, August 15, 2026: The Diocese of Belgaum marked Independence Day with a series of interfaith programmes aimed at promoting communal harmony, fraternity and mutual respect among people of different religious traditions.

The programmes were organised by Fr. Michael Souza, Diocesan Secretary for Inter-Religious Dialogue. Fr. Vinay Kumar, Karnataka Regional Secretary for Interfaith Dialogue and Ecumenism, was the chief guest.

The celebrations began with the hoisting of the national flag at Holy Family School in Gajendragada, where religious leaders from different traditions joined students and members of the community in the patriotic programme.

An interfaith gathering was later held at Deshnuur Matta, a centre known for its emphasis on inculturation. Fr. Menino Gonsalves SJ, Director of the Ashram, welcomed the participants.

Religious leaders representing different faiths shared messages emphasising peace, unity and cooperation. The programme was coordinated by Br Godfrey Simon Fernandes and attended by students and members of the local community.

The gatherings highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation among religious communities and reaffirmed the need to work together for the welfare and unity of the nation.

By Catholic Connect Reporter