Seven Faiths, One Heart: ‘Sneh Sangam’ at Goa’s Pilar Pilgrim Centre Champions Interfaith Unity

PILAR, Goa, May 5, 2025: "Sneh Sangam", an event dedicated to celebrating the religious festivals of seven major faiths, was held on May 3 at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre in Goa. Organised by the Society of Pilar’s interreligious initiative, Sadbhav, the event aimed to promote dialogue, understanding, and unity among diverse communities through shared prayers, cultural presentations, and a fellowship meal. Followers from seven major religions participated in the event.

Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, Director of Pilar Pilgrim Centre, formally welcomed the gathering, while architect and activist Tallulah D’Silva introduced the concept of Sneh Sangam. Fr. Joseph Caji Barreto paid tribute to Pope Francis, recognising his efforts in fostering universal brotherhood and harmony.

Capt. Jehangir Talyerkhan, representing the Parsi community, spoke on the significance of Nowruz, followed by Zoroastrian prayers led by Shireen Sidhwa. Next, Altaf Shah from Aashiyan highlighted the celebrations of Eid-Ul-Fitr. This was followed by a prayer led by Rehan Ali from the Students Islamic Organisation of India. The event continued with Vedamurti Dnyaneshwar Patil, Principal of Swami Brahmanand Mahavidyalaya, who spoke on Rama Navami, after which the students of the college recited verses from the Vedas.

Jain community member Rajesh Chheda shared insights on Mahavir Jayanti, followed by the Namokar Mantra recited by Kalpana Shah and Jayshree Patil. Harpreet Singh presented the significance of Vaisakhi and recited the Mool Mantra of the Sikh faith. Christian reflections on Easter were offered by Prof. Joseph Marcel Fernandes, with a prayer rendition by Fr. Peter Soares.

Kelina Chakma and Rupashi Chakma representing the Buddhist faith, offered meaningful insights into Buddha Purnima and shared traditional prayers for the well-being of all living beings.

Later, a short cultural programme took place, where Fr. Elvis Fernandes, convenor of Sadbhav, performed a peace-themed song accompanied by tabla maestro Prathamesh Chari. Prof. Resham Bhamra recited a poem, and Rooshad Patel shared his reflections on happiness through Zoroastrian teachings.

Elaine Coelho and Vansh Naik served as the event's compères, while Sahil Awasthi delivered the vote of thanks. The celebration concluded with a festive community lunch, thoughtfully coordinated by Sadbhav core team member Asim Shaikh.

Several participants expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. Jehangir Khan described the event as “beautifully curated with respect and thoughtfulness.” Shireen Sidhwa underscored the importance of such efforts in bridging religious divides, while Altaf Shah emphasised the continued relevance of interfaith dialogue in today’s world. Others described the event as “transformational”, “harmonious”, and a true “reflection of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”.

Sneh Sangam stood as a testament to India’s pluralism, showing how faith communities can come together to celebrate diversity and sow seeds of peace and unity.

By Fr. Elvis Fernandes sfx