by Bento D'Souza
BHINGAR-AHMEDNAGAR, FEBRUARY 6, 2015: An all-night Melawa for Kirtankars and Bhajankars of Ahmednagar Districts was held as part of Don Bosco Bicentenary celebrations to 
commemorate the 200 years of birth of Don Bosco. The Bhingar, St Anne's and Savedi teams helped in its successful outcome. Hundred and fifty Bhajankars and Kirtankars consisting of twenty mandals, from the district parishes participated in the one night mela on Kirtans and Bhajans jointly organised by Dr. Fr Ashok Ohol S.J. and Dr. Fr. Nelson Falcao, SDB from 8.00 p.m. on February 1, 2015 to 5.30 a.m. on the February 2.
The Carmelite and Salesian Sisters were present to begin the historic event with the lighting of the Indian lamp. The night began with an introduction to the rich culture and tradition of recitation and singing of bhajans by Fr. Ashok Ohol, SJ and continued with the groups invoking devotion in the listener's heart through singing of bhajans. A Sneha bhojan of rice, curd curry and lapsi, was held at 9.30 pm. The event was an effort to revive this dying art form in the Church and in society. 
Earlier in the morning of February 1, after the 8.00 a.m. Marathi Mass, a parent-youth interaction was facilitated by psychology Professor Sukanya F, Ph. D. who gave vital advice to parents as to 'how to relate to their children at this delicate part of their lives in a healthy, constructive, proactive and ongoing manner.' The session went on from 9.30 a.m. to 12 noon. She also took special care in responding to their questions and doubts.
Mr. Joe and Shobha Patole compered the event. Mr. Solomon Gaikwad together with all the parish council members was instrumental in getting the people to attend this rejuvenating and relevant session. The people felt enlightened by the input.