CM Siddaramaiah to Attend Nativity Feast at Shivajinagar Basilica; Cardinal Poola opens Novenas

Bengaluru, Sept. 1, 2025: The sacred St. Mary’s Basilica in Shivajinagar came alive with prayer and devotion on Saturday, August 30, as thousands of faithful gathered for the inauguration of the novenas leading up to the grand Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady. The air resonated with hymns, heartfelt prayers, and a spirit of unity, as devotees expressed their joy, hope, and gratitude to Our Blessed Mother.

The day was especially blessed by the presence of His Eminence Cardinal Anthony Poola, Archbishop of Hyderabad, who graced the flag-hoisting ceremony. In his message to the faithful, the Cardinal recalled his long-standing bond with the Basilica, saying, “As a young seminarian, I would often visit this holy Basilica, and till today it continues to inspire me as a place of prayer and devotion. It gives me immense joy to be back here to pray with the faithful.” His heartfelt words reminded all of the enduring spiritual legacy that the Basilica holds not just for Bangalore but for the wider Catholic Church in India.

The event was made more special with the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, under whose blessings the ceremonial flag was raised, marking the spirit of the Novena days. Mr. P.C. Mohan, Member of Parliament, was also present, expressing his support and extending his good wishes to the Christian community as they prepare for their most cherished annual feast.

In a significant gesture of goodwill and tradition, Archbishop Peter Machado, along with the PRO of the Archdiocese Mr. Kantha Raj, visited Hon’ble Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to extend an official invitation for the Feast Day celebrations. The Chief Minister warmly received the invitation and assured his participation. True to custom, he will join the festivities on September 8 and address the faithful from the Basilica Square, conveying his greetings and good wishes to the Christian community of Karnataka. This gesture reflects the strong bond of mutual respect and harmony that the Basilica celebrations foster across communities.

As the city of Bangalore moves closer to the grand Feast Day, St. Mary’s Basilica continues to shine as a beacon of faith, unity, and cultural heritage. With the presence of leaders like Cardinal Poola and Archbishop Peter Machado, and the support of civic leaders, the Novena celebrations have taken on a renewed spirit of hope and joy. For devotees, the Basilica remains not just a place of prayer, but a symbol of God’s enduring presence and the loving protection of Our Blessed Mother.

Courtesy: Archdiocese of Bangalore

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