The story of Christmas was vividly brought to life through Bharatanatyam in a dance presentation titled Cradle of Light during the Sadbhav Christmas celebration held at the Horta De Maria at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre on December 21, 2025.
Organised by the Society of Pilar, the interfaith event depicted Nativity stories surrounding the birth of Jesus through Bharatanatyam, drawing inspiration from the Gospels according to Matthew and Luke.
The performance featured dancers Impana Kulkarni, Parijat Naik, Srushti Prabhudesai, and Sakshi Borkar, accompanied by narration from Swara Prabhudesai of the Vyomi Arts Centre. Their presentation captivated the audience by blending classical dance with storytelling rooted in Christian tradition.
“Through our dance, we aimed to bring the Nativity story to life, showcasing not just the birth of Jesus but the essence of love and hope it represents,” said Impana Kulkarni, the choreographer and director of the dance presentation.
Sadbhav Christmas, held annually, is known for its emphasis on interfaith harmony and communal goodwill. This year’s celebration once again brought together people of different faiths, using music and dance to convey messages of unity and peace.
Music director, composer, singer, and actor Mukesh Ghatwal was the chief guest. Addressing the gathering through song and message, he said, “Music transcends barriers and speaks to our shared humanity. ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ — the whole world is one family — is a message we all need to embrace.”
The guests of honour included Taha Haaziq, Secretary of the Goa State Commission for Disabilities, and Dr. Ida Mukherjee, a mental health professional. Haaziq highlighted the need for cordial relations among faith communities, while Dr. Mukherjee spoke on the universal and inclusive spirit of Christmas.
Following the lighting of the traditional lamp, Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, Director of the Pilar Pilgrim Centre, welcomed the gathering. Students from Fr. Agnel College of Arts & Commerce rendered the Christmas carol Mari Matek Ballok Zala, penned by noted poet Manohar Rai Sardesai and composed by Michael Martins. This was followed by a Christmas folk song presented by students of Fr. Agnel Higher Secondary School.
The programme received an enthusiastic response, with sustained applause after each performance. An audience member remarked, “I feel uplifted today; this event truly showcases the spirit of Christmas.”
Leave a Reply