To Spread Peace & Harmony, Church Priests In Kerala Are Celebrating Ramayana Month

While the ruling CPM is observing Ramayana month in Kerala, a group of Christian priests have come together at Chavara cultural centre in Kochi to celebrate the occasion in an effort to reinforce religious harmony in the society.

The Karkkadakam month is observed by the Hindus world over by reading the epic story of Lord Rama with a belief that it will ward off deprivation and ailments. In its true spirit, the Chavara cultural centre has been organising Ramayana recital for the priests to win over evil thoughts and help peace and harmony prevail in the society.

Centre¡¯s director Fr R Roby Kannanchira has organised this initiative and he believes festivals of other religions have always been special as he believes they highlight the country¡¯s religious plurality and secularism.

"We need to appreciate the values of other religions. One religion should respect the others. Being a cultural centre, Chavara has always been at the forefront of organising events which uphold the values that strengthen secularism and allow religions to co-exist," said Fr Roby.

Archbishop of Cologne in Germany, Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki was the chief guest for the first session of the Ramayana recital which took place on July 17.

The centre has been celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr, "Every religion has the responsibility to promote respect and fraternity in the society," Fr Roby said.