Mangalore :  A two-day festival of food and culture ‘Saamarasya’ organised by the Karnataka Christian Educational Society (KACES), Mangalore and Interfaith Coalition of Peace (ICP), New Delhi, was inaugurated by Dr N Vinay Hegde, Chancellor of Nitte University at the KACES grounds on February 16, Saturday.

Speaking on the occasion, Vinay Hegde appreciated the contributions of the Protestant community to the field of  education and in establishing peace in the society. He said the event provided a good platform to the youngsters to display their talents. .

H Sharma Nithyanandam, regional coordinator of Interfaith Coalition for Peace, Tamil Nadu, who was the chief guest inaugurated the KACES Scholarship fund. Twelve students undergoing studies in various disciplines were awarded Rs 10,000 scholarship each.

Dr Hannibal Cabral, Secretary of KACES presided over the functioned D R Sadananda, treasurer of KACES  and others were present. Cultural programmes were presented by Vidya Jyothi School, Vamanjoor, Sarsa College of Arts and Science, Dr MV Shetty Memorial Trust; CSI Sushanthi Church, Mercara Hill; North East People’s Association (NEPAM); Athena College of Nursing; Mandd Sobhann.