Talent Research Foundation Holds Iftar with Journalists, Rauf Suggests Dr Alva’s name for Padmashree Award
Mangaluru: Talent Research Foundation held an Iftar party with journalists at the Vishwas Crown Building here, on July 1.
The programme began with an invocation. Vice President of Talent Research Foundation Saeeduddin welcomed the gathering. Rafiq Master briefed on the activities of the foundation.
Chairman of Alva’s Education Foundation Dr Mohan Alva addressing the gathering said that Ramadan is a very important month to the Muslim fraternity. “In our country, we have unity in diversity and people of different faith and religions reside here. It is very much important for everyone to live in peace and harmony and at the same time, we need to respect other religions. Before we criticize any religion, we have to understand our religion well.”
He further said that the Muslim fraternity observes fasting and spends the entire month in prayer. “When we live in this world, we have to keep our eyes, ears and tongues clean and talk good about others. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims keep themselves away from entertainment, control over food and restrict from their desires.” He wished all the Muslim fraternity a very happy Eid al-Fitr in advance.
President of Konkani Sahitya Academy Roy Castelino speaking on the occasion said, “July 1st journalism day and journalists work for the society. Today is also doctors’ day, they too work for the people and cure them. The Talent Research Foundation also works for the poor and the downtrodden. The month of Ramadan is holy for Muslims and is a month of sharing and caring.” Roy congratulated Rouf Puttige and TRF for their yeomen service towards the poor and the needy.
Convener of Shanthi Prakashan Muhammed Kunhi briefed on the importance of Ramadan. He said that Muslims observe fasting for a month to bring all the faithful closer to God. It also reminds us the suffering of the less fortunate. During Ramadan, Muslims feed the hungry and involve themselves more in charity work.
He further said that during Ramadan, fasting helps Muslims develop self-control. “They fast for 14 hours with dedication and spirit. It is the time to focus only on prayer and stay away from worldly pleasure. During this month, Muslims sacrifice their sleep, food and pleasure and dedicate themselves to prayer. “
He also said, “Whatever wealth we have, we are not its owners but only the trustees. God has given us wealth to share with the less fortunate and the poor have the right to get financial help from the rich.”
While concluding, Muhammed said that there are no photographs of Prophet Mohammed, no roads named after him, no mosque in his name but he is in the hearts of the people.
Founder president of TRF Abdul Rauf Puttige delivered the presidential address. Rauf Puttige suggested Dr Mohan Alva’s name to be recommended for Padmashree award. “Dr Mohan Alva has worked for the welfare of the society and I have known him since he started his business. Now even though he is wealthy, he is still down to earth and easily approachable.”
Information officer Khader Shah, President of the press club, Ronald Fernandes; President of DKWJU Jagannath Shetty Bala and Udayavani Bureau chief Manohar Prasad also spoke on the occasion.
Well Done TRF. Journalists / Interfaith gathering strengthens the Unity in Diversity. In a pluralistic society friendship, trust, cooperation and mutual understanding is most important.