Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 25 : The Indian Catholic Youth Movement Bajal unit, in collaboration with YCS, Catholic Sabha, CLC, Unity Commission, Service Commission, and Witness Commission, organized a street play to raise awareness about drug abuse on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

The street play took place at three different locations, starting at Yekkur (near Prakruthi Residence) from 6:10 pm to 6:30 pm, then moving to Jeppinamogaru (near Dwara) from 6:40 pm to 7:00 pm, and finally concluding at Padil Junction from 7:10 pm to 7:30 pm.

 The event began with a distinctive announcement and introduction by Mr. Rocky Pinto, who is the convener of the Unity Commission. His aim was to captivate the audience's attention for the forthcoming performance. Subsequently, members of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) and Young Christian Students (YCS) presented a play infused with dance performance, highlighting the destructive impact of drugs on young individuals and their families.

 After each performance at the respective locations, a message was conveyed to the gathered audience. At Yekkur, Fr. Andrew Dsouza, the parish priest of God the Holy Spirit Church in Bajal, delivered a message, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about drug abuse and its profound impact on families. At Jeppinamogaru, Fr. Melwin Pinto shared his message, focusing on the adverse effects of drug use, particularly among young people. At Padil, Mrs. Lydia Lobo, Secretary of Bajal Church Parish Council and the administrator of the Link De-addiction Center, addressed the audience, discussing the societal and familial consequences of drug abuse. She also shared real-life stories of individuals struggling with addiction to drugs, alcohol, and mobile phones.

Prajwal Lobo, the President of ICYM Bajal, expressed gratitude to the police for granting permission to conduct the street play. He also thanked them for their assistance in managing traffic and ensuring security. Additionally, he acknowledged the support of venue and building owners. The program concluded with the crowd joining in to chant the slogan, "Say no to drugs, say yes to life."