PRE-CHRISTMAS GOODWILL, DELIGHT
From Our Special Correspondent
NEW DELHI, Dec 19: Union Ministers, Members of Parliament and prominent leaders cutting across religious and political affiliations graced a pre-Christmas celebration here and together prayed for peace both in the country and around the whole world.
The unique assembly of Parliamentarians from diverse backgrounds urged for a communal peace and harmony in India and cessation of ongoing war in Gaza and Ukraine.
Hosted by Ms Agatha Sangma, Tura MP the gathering was graced by Union Minister Dr R K Singh, Mr Rameswar Teli, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah, Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy and many others. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, newly anointed Mizoram Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma and his Tamil Nadu counterpart M.K. Stalin addressed the gathering and wished Christmas messages online on screen last night.
The gathering, presided over by Forum President Mr. Francisco Sardinha, former Chief Minister of Goa, was coordinated by Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson and hosted by Ms. Agatha Sangma. Many leaders and MPs became emotional recalling their association with late Purno A Sangma who used to host such events from time to time, a role now played by his daughter Agatha.
Addressing the audience during the Christmas programme, Farooq Abdullah emphasised the inclusive nature of the nation, irrespective of religion, caste or language. He urged everyone to embrace love, share with each other and highlighted the importance of survival and progress for a nation. Abdullah also shared a poignant message on the human toll of wars, stressing the need for peace and harmony to move forward collectively.
The gathering, which included representatives from Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, Buddhist and other communities, stood as an emblem of a secular India. Participants joined in prayer, seeking relief from the country’s challenges and promoting justice, peace, harmony, brotherhood and joy.
The auditorium resonated with festive cheer as carols filled the air, bringing a sense of unity and positivity. Dubbed as a prayerful initiative, the event aimed to celebrate Christmas with Parliament members, civil servants, Christian leaders and professionals. The overarching goal was to envision a blessed and prosperous nation where peace and goodwill prevail, justice and liberty are upheld, and God is honoured.
Among MPs, Rajdeep Roy, Dr Lorho Pfoz, Preneet Kaur, Simranjit Singh Mann, Kunwar Danish Ali and others graced the majestic Christmas celebrations. Pastor Jayseelan offered the prayers for the Nation. At the end, Rev Fr Maria Antony, RYD, Archdiocese of Delhi also blessed the elite gatherings.