On August 2, the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) City Varado, along with the ICYM Cordel Unit and the Youth Commission of Holy Cross Church, Cordel, hosted a unique monsoon celebration called ‘Gadyanth Udkana 2026’ at Umikan Estate, Umikan. This day-long event brought together people of all ages from the parish for a fun-filled day of traditional games, community bonding, and fellowship amidst the lush green paddy fields. The programme started with an invocation, followed by the gathering of hundreds of parishioners in the paddy fields to enjoy traditional village games and celebrate the monsoon season. The ICYM Cordel Unit organised various mud- and water-based games for different age groups, creating an atmosphere of laughter and healthy competition. Parish Priest of Holy Cross Church, Cordel, Fr. Clifford Fernandes, appreciated the initiative, saying it strengthens relationships within the parish community and brings families together. He also humorously compared the event to mud therapy at wellness centres, which can cost between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 an hour. ICYM City Varado President Joel D’Souza said the event marked a milestone in the organisation’s activities, with over 5 units participating, including Permannur and Kulshekar. The event encouraged young people to step away from mobile phones and reconnect with nature and their community. Participants competed in various traditional games, including relay races, sack race, and volleyball, promoting unity, sportsmanship, and togetherness among the participants.
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News