Indian Faith Leaders & Scholars Celebrate Unity of Humanity

New Delhi, India – In observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week, UPF-India organized an interfaith program at the YMCA in New Delhi on February 7, 2026, bringing together respected leaders, scholars, and practitioners from diverse religious and academic backgrounds. The program aimed to promote mutual understanding, harmony, and peaceful coexistence among faith traditions, in alignment with the spirit and vision of the United Nations.

The program began with singing of the national anthem and a Water of Harmony Ceremony, symbolizing unity in diversity and the shared spiritual essence of humanity. This was followed by an interfaith prayer session, where distinguished religious representatives offered prayers for peace, harmony, and the well-being of the world.

The prayer was jointly led by Swami Santoshanand Ji, international yoga guru; Mr. Molana Rabbani Kargily, Islamic scholar from Delhi; Dr. M. D. Thomas, director of the Institute of Harmony and Peace Studies; and Lama Acharya Yeshi Phuntsok, deputy speaker of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile. The interfaith prayer created a deeply reflective and spiritually uplifting atmosphere, emphasizing shared moral values across traditions.

Following the prayers, special remarks were delivered by invited speakers, highlighting the relevance of interfaith cooperation in today’s divided world. Rev. Krishna Adhikari, regional director of FFWPU–South Asia, spoke on the importance of harmony, dialogue, and shared responsibility in peacebuilding. Dr. Rajbala, associate professor at the University of Delhi, and Dr. Abid Hussain, associate professor at Jamia Millia Islamia, offered academic perspectives on interreligious understanding and social harmony. Mr. Vishal Singh, founder and CEO of Care Village Foundation, shared insights on grassroots peace initiatives and community engagement.

Participating students of Delhi University offered performances of poetry, singing and dancing in support of the celebration.

The program included the presentation of mementos to the speakers and supporters in appreciation of their contributions toward interfaith harmony. This was followed by group photographs of the speakers, organizers, and participants.

The observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week by UPF–India served as a meaningful platform for dialogue, prayer, and reflection, reinforcing the shared commitment of diverse faith communities to peace, mutual respect, and the unity of humankind.

By UPF-India February 7, 2026