The Chhindwara Branch of the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF) organized a दिवाली मिलन (Diwali Meetup) and Interfaith Harmony event at Pensioners Sadar, Chhindwara, bringing together senior community members, youth participants, and interfaith representatives in a shared celebration of peace, respect, and human dignity.
The program included prayer recitations by young students belonging to Christianity, Hindu, Jain, Muslim and Sikh traditions, demonstrating IARF’s long-standing commitment to interfaith understanding and freedom of belief. The active involvement of the youth highlighted the role of education and dialogue in strengthening a culture of mutual respect across generations.
Mr. Aayush Soni, Vice President of IARF & RFYN representative, addressed the gathering and extended warm Diwali greetings to all present. He briefly updated the attendees on recent IARF activities at the national and international level, including developments from the EME Conference and initiatives of the Free Religion Institute, reinforcing the shared vision of continued interfaith cooperation and educational outreach.
Dr. K. K. Shrivastava, Founder and senior member of the IARF Chhindwara Branch, who served as the chief guest, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence, human rights, and the protection of religious freedom for every individual, which remain central to IARF’s mission worldwide.
The program was coordinated by Dr. Brown, former India Chapter Representative of IARF, who guided the flow of the event and shared his insights on the value of interfaith cooperation in contemporary society. He also underscored the growing need to expand interfaith efforts in the region and expressed support for the establishment of a North India Chapter of IARF to further strengthen grassroots engagement.
The gathering was attended by members of the Pensioners’ Association, representatives from local organizations, and students from Sony College, reflecting a meaningful blend of experience and youthful energy. The program reaffirmed the Chhindwara Branch’s dedication to building harmony through dialogue, compassion, and education.
