Bellary Diocese Opens Mount Calvary Shrine on Amaravathi Hillock

TB Dam–Hosapete, February 17, 2026: Thousands of pilgrims gathered at Amaravathi Hillock on February 15 as Church leaders formally dedicated the Mount Calvary Shrine and inaugurated the Calvary Garden, marking a major spiritual milestone for the Bellary Diocese and the wider region.

The dedication ceremony was led by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, Archbishop of Goa and Daman, in the presence of several bishops, clergy and religious leaders. The event was notable for its strong interfaith participation, underscoring a shared commitment to harmony and ethical living among diverse religious traditions.

Addressing the gathering, Basavalinga Mahaswami of Kottur Mutt said religions are not adversaries but guiding forces that inspire moral and upright living. He called for mutual respect and peaceful coexistence across faith communities. Similarly, Kalyana Swami of Kalyana Mutt described the Vijayanagara–Ballari region as a “garden of interfaith harmony” and urged people to reject religious intolerance.

Bishop Henry D’Souza emphasised the need for greater cooperation among religious communities for the common good, linking spiritual commitment with ecological responsibility and care for creation.

The inauguration of the Calvary Garden was symbolically marked by dignitaries watering newly planted saplings. The event coincided with the annual Hampi festival celebrations and the observance of Mahashivaratri, adding cultural and spiritual significance to the occasion.

Situated atop Amaravathi Hillock and visible from National Highway 67, the Mount Calvary Shrine and Calvary Udhyana are envisioned as spaces for prayer, reflection and pilgrimage. The serene hilltop setting has already begun to attract visitors seeking spiritual solace.

Principal donor Cedric Fernandez unveiled the commemorative plaque, after which Cardinal Ferrao solemnly opened the shrine church. Bishop Derick Fernandes lighted the ceremonial lamp, while Bishop Duming Dias and Bishop Johannes Gorantla unveiled the Stations of the Cross. Bishop Henry D’Souza installed the Reliquary of the Holy Cross for public veneration.

In his homily, Cardinal Ferrao described the shrine as a “magnificent edifice dedicated to the glory of God and humanity,” affirming that the compassionate love of Christ offers hope even amid suffering and despair.

The occasion also marked the golden jubilee of priesthood of Bishop Henry D’Souza, who was felicitated by Church leaders and the faithful. The shrine stands as a lasting testimony to his pastoral vision and leadership.

More than 4,000 pilgrims, along with five bishops and over 125 priests and religious, attended the dedication. Built as part of the Platinum Jubilee commemorations of the Bellary Diocese, the Mount Calvary Shrine now stands as a symbol of faith, interreligious harmony and spiritual heritage in the region.

By Ms. Sagaya