On the 2nd of August 2025, a group 6 students from Shree Damodar College of Commerce & Economics had an opportunity to participate in the Yuva Sadbhav 2025 programme held at Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar, Goa. Following students were part of this enriching program:
- Ms. Srisha Verenkar – FYBCA
- Mr. Armaan Bagwan – SYBVoc
- Mr. Rohit Pradhan – SYBVoc
- Ms. Prema M – SYBCA
- Ms. Rajnandini Yadav – SYBCA
- Ms. Maithili Raikar – SYBCom
The event, themed “Harmony in Devotion: The Interplay of Music and Religion,” was part of an annual initiative that brings together youth from various faiths to promote dialogue, interreligious harmony, and mutual respect. The event aimed to foster unity through the universal language of music, encouraging participants to explore its spiritual and cultural dimensions across different religions. With its well-structured schedule, engaging sessions, and vibrant atmosphere, the programme left a lasting impact on the participants.
The students reached the venue early in the morning as a group and were warmly welcomed. The day began with a light breakfast and tea, followed by the registration process. As they entered the main hall, we were greeted with a badge, a pen, and a neatly designed diary, symbolizing our formal participation in the event. The ambience of the hall reflected serenity and a spirit of togetherness, setting the tone for a day filled with reflection and learning.
The Inaugural session began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by representatives of various religious communities. This was followed by an interfaith prayer and a keynote address delivered by the renowned Fado singer, Sonia Shirsat, who spoke about the deep and intricate bond between music and spirituality. Her speech emphasized how music transcends boundaries and connects people on a soul level, regardless of their faith.
For the next segment students were divided into smaller groups for interactive sessions facilitated by musicians from different religious traditions. These activities explored the roles of sacred sounds—such as bhajans, hymns, chants, and devotional songs—in spiritual practice. They also got to see and learn about the diverse musical instruments used in religious contexts, enhancing our understanding of cultural expressions of faith.
Group presentations allowed each team to express what they had learned and observed, and this was followed by a wholesome community lunch. The post-lunch session included cultural performances by various colleges, showcasing interfaith music and dance. Towards the end of the day, the interactive feedback session encouraged us to reflect on our learnings. Finally, certificates of participation were distributed to all students, and the day ended with a heartfelt vote of thanks followed by a high tea.
The College Coordinated for this event was Ms. Samiksha Vengurlekar, Convenor, Cultural Council
Expected Outcomes:
Yuva Sadbhav 2025 was not just a one-day event, but a journey into the spiritual essence of music and its power to unite people beyond religion. Through participatory sessions, interfaith dialogue, and cultural sharing, the programme successfully fulfilled its objectives of promoting peace, harmony, and mutual respect among youth. Participants, were walked away with deeper insights into the richness of diverse traditions and a renewed commitment to fostering unity in our own communities.
