Cradle of Light in Goa: Nativity Comes Alive Through Bharatanatyam at Sadbhav Christmas

By Fr. Elvis Fernandes, SFX

The timeless story of the Nativity took on a new rhythm and grace as the Society of Pilar hosted Sadbhav Christmas at the Horta De Maria, Pilar Pilgrim Centre, Goa, on December 21, 2025. The highlight of the evening was Cradle of Light, a Bharatanatyam presentation that transformed the Gospel stories of the birth of Jesus into a visual and spiritual experience of movement, music, and meaning.

Mukesh Ghatwal performing a Christmas Carol

Presented by dancers from Vyomi Arts Centre, Porvorim, the performance featured a quartet of gifted artistes—Impana Kulkarni, Parijat Naik, Srushti Prabhudesai, and Sakshi Borkar. With expressive choreography and emotive storytelling, they conveyed not only the events of the Nativity but the deeper message of love, peace, and hope that Christmas embodies. The dance was complemented by insightful narration from Swara Prabhudesai, drawing inspiration from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

“Through our dance, we wanted to make the Nativity story come alive, showcasing not just the birth of Jesus but the essence of love and hope it represents,” said Impana Kulkarni, who choreographed and directed the production. Her interpretation bridged classical Indian expression with a universal message of compassion—a hallmark of Sadbhav (goodwill).

True to its name, Sadbhav Christmas celebrated interfaith harmony, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to share in the joy of the season. The event, an annual tradition organized by the Society of Pilar, seeks to promote unity and cultural dialogue through art, music, and reflection.

The evening’s chief guest, musician and actor Mukesh Ghatwal—renowned for his work in the film Claudia—captivated the audience with a soulful melody. “Music transcends barriers and speaks to our shared humanity,” he said, echoing the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the ancient Indian ideal that the whole world is one family.

Guests of honour included Taha Haaziq, Secretary of the Goa State Commission for Disabilities, and Dr. Ida Mukherjee, a mental health professional. Haaziq, in his Christmas message, emphasized the need for understanding and friendship among communities of different faiths. Dr. Ida’s reflection reminded the audience that the message of Christmas is universal—an invitation to all to embrace love and inclusivity.

Students of Fr. Agnel HSS performing Christmas Folk Song

Dignitaries lighting the lamp

The celebration began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, led by Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, Director of the Pilar Pilgrim Centre. Students of Fr. Agnel College of Arts & Commerce set a festive tone with the Konkani carol Mari Matek Ballok Zala, penned by poet Manohar Rai Sardesai and set to music by Michael Martins. Later, students from Fr. Agnel Higher Secondary School brought a touch of Goan tradition with a Christmas folk song.

The evening concluded with applause and heartfelt appreciation from the audience, many expressing how profoundly the program had lifted their spirits. “I feel truly uplifted today,” said one attendee. “This event embodies the real spirit of Christmas.”

Dignitaries, Performers and a few audience

Mementos were presented to dignitaries and performers, with Fr. Joseph Caji Barreto offering the vote of thanks. The program was gracefully compered by Sahil Awasthi and Siya Almeida of Fr. Agnel College—bringing a memorable evening of joy and togetherness to a close.