VASCO
The Ganesh Chaturthi celebration at the Mesta family home in Murgao Avenue took on a special meaning when a young Muslim boy from the neighbourhood, Owais Mehboob Shaikh, joined the puja and performed the Ganapati Aarti with devotion.
The gesture was warmly welcomed by the family and community members, showing how festivals can go beyond religion and bring people together.
Ganesh Chaturthi has long been a festival of faith, tradition, and family bonding. This moment added a deeper layer — the spirit of inclusiveness. Owais offering prayers alongside the Mesta family reminded everyone that festivals are meant to unite, not divide.
Host Sachin Mesta said the essence of Ganeshotsav lies in its universal message. “Ganeshotsav is about unity, faith, and respect for tradition. What matters most is the shraddha and bhav (faith and feeling) with which puja is done,” he said.
He added that festivals should never be used to create divides. “Ganpati Bappa teaches us equality, devotion, and brotherhood. When prayers are done with a pure heart — whether simple or with full rituals — Bappa always accepts them,” Mesta said.
Neighbours and well-wishers praised Owais’s participation, saying it reflected the Goan way of life where communities have always lived in harmony. At a time when differences are often highlighted, they felt this act sent a strong message of unity.
“Festivals should bring people closer, not create negativity,” Mesta added, stressing the importance of brotherhood in society.
