Solemnity of the Assumption and Independence Day Celebrations at Pushpashrama
Pushpashrama Institute of Philosophy and Religion joyfully celebrated the 80th Independence Day of India on 15 August, together with the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, at the Infant Jesus Shrine.
A solemn Eucharistic celebration was held at 7:00 a.m., during which the community thanked God for granting us the hope of resurrection through the Assumption of Our Lady and prayed for His blessings upon the nation and its people. The main celebrant was Fr Vijay D’Costa, assisted by Fr Alphonse Britto, Rector of the Institute and Fr Wilfred Rodrigues, the visiting professor. The brothers contributed to the celebration through the choir and by serving at Mass.
Following the Mass, the community and the faithful gathered for the flag-hoisting ceremony. Rev. Fr Alphonse Britto, the Rector and chief guest, unfurled the National Flag. The gathering then paid tribute to the nation by singing the National Anthem. Br Flostan served as the parade commander. The brothers beautifully sang the Kannada patriotic song Kana Kanava Tumba, composed by Mr Tony Rozario. Br Mark Murali delivered an address reflecting on the deeper meaning of freedom. He reminded everyone that authentic freedom is not merely political independence, but a way of life rooted in responsibility and service to others. His message encouraged all present to cherish the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and to contribute positively to the peace and progress of the country. The celebration concluded with the distribution of sweets to the people. As it was a holiday for the Institute, the brothers spent the evening on a movie outing.
On 16 August, the “Independence Day Cup” was held at the Presentation School grounds at 2:30 p.m. The cricket tournament was played among three teams, each comprising ten members. The league matches consisted of four overs each, while the final was played over six overs. The team captained by Br Clevin emerged victorious. The Independence Day Cup trophy was presented to the winning team by Fr Prakash Tauro, Councillor for Temporalities, along with Fr Alphonse Britto, Rector, in the presence of Fr Richard Saldanha, Master of Students and Fr Prithesh Crasta, Assistant Master of Students. The tournament, followed by a friendly match, concluded at 6:30 p.m.
Thus, the celebration of India’s Independence Day and the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady was marked by great fervour, jubilation and brotherhood.
