SHILLONG: In order to spread the message of peace and harmony among different communities in the city and the state as a whole, Rilbong Sports and Cultural Club, celebrated pre- Christmas at Rilbong ground on Wednesday.
Stating that Christmas is a universal festival, president of the Rilbong Sports and Cultural Club Manas Chaudhuri, said that the programme was organised to help create peace and goodwill among various communities residing in Shillong and the state as a whole.
Speaking about the need to bring about harmony among various religions, he said that the spirit of tolerance towards other religions should be extended.
“A lot of forces are raising their heads to establish their religious superiority,” Chaudhuri said, adding that the pre-Christmas celebration is meant to capture the mood of Christmas.
Further, he said, “If conscience is right, Christmas can be celebrated continually. Christmas is in the heart; it is a matter of feeling.”
The editor of The Shillong Times, Patricia Mukhim, urged the assembly to maintain of spirit of love and let go the spirit of vengeance on the occasion of the Christmas that has the message of love.
Echoing Chaudhuri, she said that there should not be religious competition. Mukhim said, “It is important to have poverty of spirit and become humble to extend hand of friendship to one another.”