People of all religion join puja celebrations in Meghalaya

Shillong, Oct 14 (UNI) Putting aside the religious backgrounds, people in a predominantly Christian-state of Meghalaya have kicked started the Durga Puja celebration with ''Get-Together of Harmony'' here.

The annual gathering was aimed at fostering sense of brotherhood among the people.

Meghalaya Governor Banwari Lal Joshi, who attended the function here yesterday, lauded the Central Puja Committee (CPC) for unifying people and promoting peace and harmony in the state.

Mr Joshi said,''The harmony is obvious from the huge congregation, clearly reflecting the collective aspiration of the people to keep Shillong and the state away from evil forces and bickering between communities.'' In his message, Chief Minister D D Lapang said Durga Puja was not only for the transition from dull course of life to that of fun and gaiety, but also for sharing joy and happiness with friends and relatives.

Expressing hope that this year's Puja festival would again spread the message of peace and harmony in the state, Rev Fr P B Lyngdoh of Anglican Church said, ''If science has made this world a neighbourhood, let our religion make this world a brotherhood.'' Arwan Sawian, a prominent leader of the Seng Khasi said the function was a right step towards promoting peace and harmony among the people.

Swami Anandta Maharaj of Ramkrishna Mission said,''When the whole world is engaged in communal clashes and fatricides, this effort of the CPC to bring various religions under one platform was a kind of respite.'' UNI RRK PP AB 1454