Manvi, 2 October 2026: The birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri were commemorated meaningfully at Loyola Institutions, Manvi, with a programme that reflected on their lives, values, and contributions to the nation. The programme was presided over by Rev. Fr. Cyprian Tellis, SJ, Head of Loyola Institutions, Manvi. In his address, he encouraged students to understand and embrace the ideals and contributions of both national leaders. Reflecting on Mahatma Gandhi’s life, he emphasized that Gandhi was not merely a political leader but also a spiritual thinker and philosopher. He urged students to incorporate values such as truth, non-violence, simplicity, compassion, and service into their daily lives, recalling Gandhi’s profound conviction that “Truth is God.” The gathering was also addressed by Ms. Tina Xavier, State-Level Trainer of Karnataka Janavedike, who posed the thought-provoking question, “Is Gandhiji among us today?” Through relevant real-life examples, she highlighted how Gandhi’s ideals of humanity, truth, and service continue to remain relevant in contemporary society. The programme was attended by the directors, principals, headmasters, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students of Loyola and Xavier Institutions. Students of Loyola School anchored the programme, while students of Xavier School extended the welcome and delivered the vote of thanks. As a fitting conclusion to the celebration, students put Gandhiji’s message of cleanliness into practice by participating in Shramdaan (voluntary service) and carrying out cleanliness activities across the campus. The initiative transformed the commemoration into an opportunity for students to translate Gandhian values of service, responsibility, and cleanliness into action.
