Mangalore: An interfaith Iftar gathering was held at The Yenepoya School Ground, Jeppinamogaru, on Saturday, bringing together prominent dignitaries and community leaders to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan and reinforce the values of unity and brotherhood. The event was organized by Dr. N. Vinaya Hegde, Chancellor of Nitte (Deemed to be University), Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of the Diocese of Mangalore, and Dr. Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi, Chancellor of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University).
Speaking at the gathering, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha emphasized the importance of communal harmony, stating that such gatherings help people understand each other and strengthen the bonds between communities. He highlighted the message of Ramadan, urging everyone to hold on to humanity and brotherhood, especially in challenging times.
Renowned orthopedic surgeon and Pro-Chancellor of Nitte University, Dr. Shantharam Shetty, echoed these sentiments. He remarked that all faiths—be it Islam, Christianity, or Hinduism—preach love and unity. Citing scriptures from different religions, he underscored the universal message of brotherhood and the need for collective coexistence.
Dr. Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi elaborated on the significance of Ramadan, noting that the event was aimed at fostering interfaith understanding. "The best religion in the world is humanity," he stated, reinforcing the idea that Prophet Mohammed’s message was one of unity and peace. He expressed gratitude to all attendees for participating in the event and contributing to its success.
As the sun set, Ustad Salman led the azaan prayers, marking the time for Iftar. Attendees broke their fast together, sharing a meal in the spirit of togetherness and communal harmony.
The event was attended by several key figures including Karnataka Assembly Speaker UT Khader, MLC Ivan D’Souza, Farhaad Yenepoya, Prof. Dr. UT Iftikhar Ali, and several other prominent personalities and officials.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Bengaluru (PTI): Former Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa and several other senior BJP leaders in the state were taken under preventive custody on Thursday when they took out a march to lay siege to the CM Siddaramaiah's Office residence.
BJP state president B Y Vijayendra and Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly R Ashoka were among the BJP MLAs taken into custody.
The party on Wednesday started the day and night protest at the Freedom Park against the price rise and other issues and they started march towards CM's residence on Thursday.
Speaking to reporters later, Vijayendra said the agitation is against the price rise, four per cent reservation for Muslims in government contracts and diversion of funds meant for Scheduled Caste Sub Plan and Scheduled Tribes Sub Plan.
"We are taking these three key issues to people," Vijayendra said.
The agitations took place in several parts of Karnataka.
According to the BJP office bearers, the party has also planned a 'Janakrosha Yatra' (Public Outrage March) from April 7, starting in Mysuru, which will be flagged off by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi.
As per the schedule, the march on April 7 will cover the Mysuru and Chamarajanagar districts. On April 8, it will reach Mandya and Hassan, and on April 9 it will proceed to Kodagu and Mangaluru.
The first phase will conclude in Udupi and Chikkamagaluru on April 10. The second phase, starting on April 13, will cover the Shivamogga and Uttara Kannada districts.
The movement will cover every district in the state. Each district will have a two-to-three-kilometre Padayatra'.