India: Sadbhav Sammelan 2026 Begins in Goa, Fostering Interfaith Commitment to Peace
The fourth edition of Sadbhav Sammelan, an international interfaith conference, was inaugurated on February 6, 2026, at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre, Goa, in southwest India. The two-day conference, held on the theme “Together for Peace: Faith in Action,” brings together scholars, religious leaders, academicians, teachers, and students from across the country and abroad.
The inaugural lamp was lit by Dr. Narayan B. Desai, educationist and researcher from Goa, in the presence of Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, SFX, Superior General of the Society of Pilar; Fr. Frederick Rodrigues, Principal of Fr. Agnel College; Dr. Russell D’Souza, Principal of Nirmala Institute of Education, Panaji; and Fr. Daniele Mazza, keynote speaker, marking the formal opening of the event.
Sadbhav Sammelan 2026, being held from February 6–7, is jointly organised by Sadbhav, Pilar; Fr. Agnel College of Commerce and Arts, Pilar; and the Nirmala Institute of Education, in collaboration with the Apostolate of Interreligious Dialogue, Archdiocese of Goa and Daman; the Solidarity Forum of Pilar Seminary; the School of Sanskrit, Philosophy and Indic Studies, Goa University; and the Directorate of Higher Education, Government of Goa.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Desai called for lived faith rooted in compassion, dialogue, and ethical action. Warning against religious exclusivism, he noted that compassion leads to righteousness, while selfishness distorts faith—even within religious spaces. Citing Sant Kabir, he reminded participants that moral integrity is the highest spiritual treasure. Reflecting on India’s spiritual vision, he explained that peace is foundational, giving rise to strength and contentment, and expressed hope that the Sammelan would continue to strengthen interfaith cooperation and contribute to universal peace.
Speaking as guest of honour, Fr. Nazareth Fernandes, SFX, reflected on the journey of the Sadbhav Sammelan, noting that it has “quietly but powerfully built bridges” through listening, learning, and shared humanity. In a divided world, he stressed that peace is “the active presence of understanding, compassion, and mutual respect,” and affirmed that all faith traditions carry a call to peace, urging faith in action through dialogue, service, solidarity, and renewed commitment to peacemaking, especially among the youth.
Fr. Elvis Fernandes, SFX, Convenor of Sadbhav Sammelan 2026, outlined the vision and objectives of the conference, describing it as a vibrant platform bringing together students, educators, researchers, peace activists, and faith leaders. Referring to the theme, he highlighted the role of faith traditions in addressing social injustice, environmental degradation, and conflict, and called on participants to uphold shared humanity, human rights, and mutual respect.
Earlier, Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, SFX, Director of the Pilar Pilgrim Centre, welcomed the gathering, highlighting the Society of Pilar’s legacy as a unifying force. Referring to Vinoba Bhave, he observed that while knowledge has grown, hearts have shrunk, contributing to global conflict, and expressed hope that the Sammelan would foster fraternity, peace, and collective action across faiths.
The inaugural ceremony, anchored by Jisha Poonnachan, began with a devotional dance by Jinu Poonachan and Naina Simepurushkar. Scholars and participants from India and abroad are taking part in the Sadbhav Sammelan at Pilar.
The inaugural session concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Janessa D’Mello, Member of the Advisory Committee of Sadbhav Sammelan 2026.
