Shillong, Oct 18: Youths have sought greater participation in harmony meeting in future.
The 33rd All Faith-All Religion, Sadbhavana Sammelan(Get Together of Harmony) of Central Puja Committee, Meghalaya was held at Rilbong Durga Puja Mandapam hosted by Rilbong Durga Puja Committee(RDPC).
The highlight of this year’s get together was the impression and views on the harmony meet expressed by two young school students, Jason Suchiang & Shina Haokip of BK Bajoria, School. While appreciating the efforts of CPC, both clearly outlined the necessity for involving the youth in such interfaith dialogues. They stressed on the need to broad-base such meet and also provide a platform to the younger generation and listen to their opinion, views and way forward for such harmony among the youth.
The event marked the centenary of Durga Puja this year. Leaders of different faiths and religions together with traditional heads belonging to SNBH and representatives of Durga Puja committees and invited guests attended the annual meet organised every year, prior to onset of the festival season.
The all-faith prayer, which is a highlight of the function, was read out by faith leaders, led by Swami Hitakamananda, Secretary RKM, Shillong. The prayer was penned by Patricia Mukhim.
The President of RDPC Manas Chaudhuri, recounted the necessity of organising the harmony meet at Rilbong. The interactive dialogue was held at the locality ground, with all attendees seated in a circle, as there was no stage, podium or any other paraphernalia, which has evolved over the years. The outcome of the initiative was more important which provided foundation for the meet to build on and grow
Chief Guest, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, lauded the unique initiative of CPC and acknowledged that he was not aware of such an event arranged in the state. He said that although belonging to the Niamtre faith, he has cultivated since childhood the concept of religious unity among people, and practiced this idea still to date, with full conviction. Sanbor Shullai, Guest of Honour, in his address recounted his long association with CPC and whole heartedly encouraging and supporting the mission of harmony.
Naba Bhattacharjee, President, CPC, Meghalaya in his address said while there is no one religion for the entire humanity, it is time to introspect on harmony of humanity above harmony of religion with reverence for each other’s religion.
CPC’s Sarad Sanman for 2025-2026 was handed over by the chief guest to the recipients Prabhat Kanti Paul, Ramshevak Singh, Lur Mangkara Bashai Rani, P.D. Chokhani, Salil Gewali & SL Singhania.
