Bhayandar : In a sterling example of interfaith harmony during Navratri, members of the Tarun Mitra Mandal in the Shanti Nagar area of Mira Road have come up with the replica of the Bandra-based Mount Mary Church which is not only graced by a majestic idol of Mother Mary but also one of Goddess Ambe Mata — both showering blessings on devotees irrespective of caste, creed or religion.
Interestingly, the mandal is headed by Sebastin Fernandes — a Catholic who not only abstains from non-vegetarian food and observes fast during the 10-day long festivities but also actively participates in all worship rituals reciting holy hymns with religious fervour and great dedication.
Fernandes drew flak and strong opposition from hardliners but thanks to the support lent by colleagues and local residents, it did not deter him from going ahead with his interfaith mission.
“God did not make religion, humans did. It’s our privilege that both divine powers — Mother Mary and Ambe Mata — are showering their blessings on devotees,” says Fernandes. The major focus of the mandal is on religious rituals, while the traditional raas-garba dance is limited to a symbolic 30-minute event.
