A large number of women from various parishes of Ballari and its surroundings in the Diocese of Bellary, enthusiastically participated in the International Women’s Day Celebration held on March 08 th , 2026 at St Antony’s Pastoral Center, Cantonment, Bellary.

The day was animated by Sri Leslie Arousa, Secretary, KRCBC Family Commission, the celebration begun at 10.00 a.m.

Sri Leslie, sensitized the participants with practical insights of living a healthy and deeper family life drawing from his own personal experience. He further high-lighted the irreplaceable responsibility women hold as the heart of the family. Further he underscored that nurturing faith and fostering closer bonds within the family, neighborhood and the church is a God given mission for the women are called to play.

Bishop Henry D Souza, Bishop of Bellary while addressing the women present said” The International Women’s Day (IWD) serves as a reminder to recognize the equal dignity of all men and women. He urged everyone to provide spiritual, social and economic empowerment to women. And earnestly appealed women organizations and other Church facilities to initiate women into leadership and decision-making roles.

Sri Gadeppa, Hon’ble Mayor of Ballari City Corporation, while addressing the gathering said, ‘’ Women’s Day is to be celebrated not only on March 8 th ,but every day. He also highlighted the significant role Christian women religious play in the health and education sectors and make important contribution in the nation’s development”.

Ms. Sheela Das, Secretary, Diocesan Women Commission,Bellary presented a power point report of the Commission for the year 2025-26. Mrs Josphine is the Chairperson and Sr Johncy FS the Vice Chair person and their collaborators of the commission ably oraganised the event.

At that occasion four women were honored namely Mrs latika, Evalina, Margret And Sr Sagaya FS, for their best teaching performance at Taluk level.

The day’s programme concluded with a series of cultural performances presented from different parish units, exhibiting their creativity and talent. The lively performances added colour and enthusiasm fostering joy and togetherness among the participants.

Besides IWD celebrations in Ballari , different parishes of the diocese meaningfully organized women’s day celebrations.

Mrs. Sheela Das, Secretary, Women Commission, Diocese of Bellary