Moodbidri, Karnataka: A public gathering on religious harmony and peace took place at Shri Dharmasthala Manjunath Swami Kalabhavan, bringing together leaders from different communities to emphasize unity, tolerance, and mutual respect.
In his inaugural address, Swasti Shri Bhattaraka Charukeerthi Panditacharya Mahaswamiji of Shri Digambar Jain Math said peace begins when people realize oneness. He urged citizens to uphold constitutional values and strengthen interfaith cooperation.
Delivering the keynote speech on “Religious Harmony: Challenges and Opportunities,” Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Karnataka State Secretary Muhammad Kunhi said devotion expressed through hatred of other religions is spiritual bankruptcy. He reminded the audience that no great religious figure in history promoted hatred, and stressed truth and understanding as the foundation for a stronger society.
Legislative Council member Pratap Simha Nayak told participants that genuine change comes through self-change and mutual understanding. Guest speaker Niketh Raj Mourya highlighted that Islam teaches brotherhood, Jainism teaches peace, and India remains a diverse society where unity must overcome caste and religious barriers.
The program began with a Quran recitation by Shibli and a prayer song by the Hazra Haider sisters. Two books on the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) were also released during the event.
The session was chaired by B.S. Sharfuddin, Principal of Baraka International School, with leaders including Raksith Shiv Ram of Best Foundation Belthangady extending support. The conference closed with a call for peace, unity, and interfaith brotherhood.
