KRISTU MAHOTSAV 2025 Concludes with 600+ Specially-Abled and Underprivileged Children in a Celebration of “Including Everyone, Excluding None”
New Delhi, Dec 09: KRISTU MAHOTSAV 2025 the National Inter-Religious Ecumenical Christmas Celebration—concluded with profound joy and unity as over 600 specially-abled and underprivileged children participated in an evening filled with compassion, cultural vibrancy, and festive spirit. The event was hosted by filmmaker, philanthropist, and global cultural icon Dr. Sanjanaa Jon, who also served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, bringing her signature warmth and humanitarian spirit to the celebration.
The evening opened with a deeply moving Buddy March, led by the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose, who entered the venue hand-in-hand with specially-abled children, symbolising solidarity and dignity. Ambassadors, interfaith leaders, and officials joined the march, creating a historic moment of inclusion that received an overwhelming standing ovation.
The event was jointly organised by the Chavara Cultural Centre, New Delhi, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), and the Association of Catholic Rehabilitation Centres in India (ACRCI). This year’s celebration also marked the 5th Anniversary of the Chavara Cultural Centre, honouring five years of interfaith harmony, cultural exchange, and social transformation.
Guided by the theme “Including Everyone, Excluding None,” KRISTU MAHOTSAV 2025 featured more than fifteen uplifting performances by differently-abled children, including wheelchair dance, inclusive choir, theatre, and cultural presentations that showcased extraordinary talent, confidence, and joy. The event reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing a society where every child is celebrated, every ability honoured, and no one is left behind.
A major highlight of the evening was the release of a new book authored by Hon’ble Governor Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose, unveiled on stage during the celebrations. The book, which includes songs and poems penned by Dr. Bose, reflects themes of peace, compassion, and the triumph of the human spirit—resonating beautifully with the message of Kristu Mahotsav. The audience was especially moved when select verses from the Governor’s poems were presented during the event, adding literary and artistic depth to the Christmas celebration.
The gathering also honoured Bishop Stephen Fernandes on his gracious appointment as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay. Organisers, dignitaries, and attendees extended heartfelt congratulations and prayerful wishes as he begins this new chapter of pastoral service. A special tribute was dedicated to Rev. Fr. Joseph Puthenpura, Founder President of ACRCI, on the Golden Jubilee of his Priestly Ordination. His five decades of service uplifting specially-abled children and marginalised communities were celebrated with immense gratitude and admiration.
Ambassadors, diplomats, interfaith leaders, civil servants, academicians, and cultural icons graced the Buddy March and the celebrations, enhancing the spirit of unity and shared purpose. Their presence underscored the event’s commitment to inclusivity and collective responsibility in building a compassionate society.
Governor Dr. C. V. Ananda Bose described the children as “the true stars of Christmas—reminding us that peace grows when we include and uplift one another.” Rev. Dr. Roby Kannamchirayil CMI, Director of the Chavara Cultural Centre, along with Rev. Fr. Roy Kannanchira CMI, President of ACRCI, and Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, extended heartfelt thanks to all dignitaries, institutions, and volunteers for making the event a powerful expression of love and inclusion.
KRISTU MAHOTSAV 2025 concluded with a renewed mission to promote peace, compassion, and interfaith understanding. The Buddy March, the spirited performances, and the participation of hundreds of children reaffirmed the central message of the evening: “Peace begins when we celebrate others.”