Human Interest

Goa Governor Extends Warm Christmas Greetings, Calls for Peace and Unity


Panaji, December 24, 2025:

The Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, has extended warm Christmas greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on the joyous occasion of Christmas.

In his message, the Governor reflected on the profound significance of Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus Christ and the timeless values He bestowed upon humanity — peace, love, sacrifice, and brotherhood. He noted that Christmas serves as a reminder of the importance of togetherness, gratitude, and kindness, as families and friends come together to celebrate the season of joy.

“Christmas is an occasion to reflect with gratitude on the blessings in our lives and to extend kindness generously to others,” the Governor said. He urged citizens to renew their commitment to the message of love and compassion preached by Jesus Christ and to work collectively towards building a Goa rooted in peace, harmony, and unity.

Concluding his message, the Governor expressed hope that the festive season would bring happiness to every home and usher in a New Year filled with peace, progress, and prosperity for all.

EduConnect

PM SHRI GHS Morpirla Marks Gandhi & Shastri Jayanti with Tributes, Cultural Events & Cleanliness Drive


PM SHRI GHS Morpirla observed the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri with a vibrant and meaningful celebration that united students, teachers, and parents in a spirit of respect, reflection, and responsibility. The commemorative event began with floral tributes paid to both leaders by Headmistress Maria Murena Miranda, who addressed the school community with an inspiring message urging students to internalize and live by Gandhiji’s ideals of peace, non-violence, harmony, and brotherhood.

Students participated enthusiastically in the celebration, with many arriving dressed as Mahatma Gandhi, evoking the timeless simplicity and strength of the Father of the Nation. Cultural dances and performances captured the essence of Gandhian philosophy and added a touch of joy and liveliness to the occasion.

In keeping with Gandhiji’s vision of cleanliness as a cornerstone of national development, the school organized a cleanliness drive around the campus. Students and staff actively participated in the effort, reinforcing the message of responsibility toward the environment and community. The day also featured a special exhibition created by students, showcasing Gandhian values, historical insights, and the life stories of both Gandhi and Shastri.

These celebrations served not only to remember two of India’s greatest leaders but also to educate young minds on the importance of values-based living, civic responsibility, and national pride. Events like these remind us of the powerful role schools play in shaping the moral and ethical compass of the next generation.

#faith

Spiritual Leaders Unite for Interfaith Dialogue in Ponda


On September 12, 2025, the Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (Ponda unit) hosted an interfaith program titled “Spiritual Leaders: Guiding Lights to Humanity”, drawing participants from across Goa for an evening of reflection, dialogue, and spiritual enrichment.

The event began with a Quranic recitation by Mohammad Shah, President of SIO Ponda, and was convened by Simran Shaikh, President of GIO Ponda. In his inaugural remarks, Mr. Akbar Khan, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Ponda, emphasized the need for spiritual initiatives to foster peace and harmony in today’s world.

Key Highlights of the Program:

  • 🕊️ Fr. Victor Ferrao, Parish Priest of St. Xavier’s Church, Borim, spoke on the Christian concept of Agape—selfless love—as a transformative force to overcome hatred and division.
  • 🕉️ Arjunpriya Das, ISKCON member from Ponda, stressed that spiritual leaders must embody good character, respect all religions, and promote dialogue as a pathway to understanding.
  • ☪️ Maulana Usman Qasmi, Imam of ICG Islamic Centre, Mapusa, underlined the centrality of service to humanity in Islam, citing prophetic teachings about compassion for family, neighbours, and the needy.

The program concluded with Mr. Asif Hussain, President of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Goa Zone, who highlighted divine guidance through the Prophets, particularly Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as the key to building lasting peace.

Around 160 participants from diverse faith backgrounds attended the event, which ended with a prayer by Ms. Ruksana.

By bringing together different faith perspectives, the program succeeded in underscoring a universal truth: that spirituality, compassion, and service are guiding lights to humanity.