Mangalore Diocese News

By Ranville Carlo

Loretto - Bantwal, Aug 14, 2024 : On Sunday, August 4th, the ICYM unit of Our Lady of Loretto Church, in collaboration with the parish Yuva Ayog and Samajik Sampark Ayog organized an event called “Gadyanth Gammath” to raise awareness among the youth about the culture of bygone days. The event featured traditional sports played in the fields, offering a glimpse into the past.

The inauguration began with a flash mob by the YCS Loretto Unit, followed by the Traditional bull race ( Kambala ) to celebrate and showcase our cultural heritage. A March Past was also held, with participants from the wards of Loretto Parish demonstrating traditional customs.

Dr. Reema Frank, Youth Commission Convener, welcomed everyone to the event. Rev. Fr. Francis Crasta, Director of ICYM Loretto Unit, emphasised the importance of engaging in such traditional sports, noting that it helps children understand the significance of agriculture and our culture, motivating them to preserve and promote it. He extended his best wishes for the success of the event.

Joining him were Fr. Jason Monis, Principal of Loreto English Medium CBSE School, Mr. Cyprian D'Souza, Parish Council Vice President, Shaila Barboza, Secretary, Prakash Vas, All Commissions’ Coordinator, Alwyn Pinto, Animator of ICYM Loretto Unit, Joel Fonseka, Vice President of ICYM Loretto Unit, Sunitha Crasta, Gurkarn of Dukhisaibin Vado, Nihan Sequeira, Mangalore Diocese Vice President, Elvin D’Cunha, Diocese AMCHO Yuvak Representative, and Arrol Sequeira, President of ICYM Bantwal Deanery.

A token of gratitude was presented to Sri Rathnakar Poojary for providing water supply and a place for cooking, as well as to Sri Antony Fonseka, the retired Gurkar of the ward where the field was located.

Throughout the day, individual, paired, and group games were conducted for different age groups. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by ICYM Loretto Unit Secretary, Miss Preemal Menezes, and a lively Baila dance.