CONSTITUTIONAL VALUES ARE WRITTEN IN THE BLOOD OF FREEDOM FIGHTERS | 26-01-2026
The Concluding Academy of the Mangalapuzha Seminary Literary Association (MSLA) was held in a solemn and inspiring manner as part of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations at Mangalapuzha Seminary. The programme brought together members of the seminary community to reflect on the meaning of the Constitution and the responsibilities of citizens in contemporary India.
The chief guest of the day, Sri. V. D. Satheesan, Honourable Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Legislative Assembly, delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he strongly affirmed that the core constitutional values of democracy and secularism are written with the blood and sacrifices of India’s freedom fighters. Emphasising the gravity of this historical legacy, he stated that it is the collective duty of citizens to protect and uphold these values. He particularly underlined the need to safeguard minorities in India and cautioned against the rise of religious fanaticism, asserting that resisting such forces is more important than merely winning elections. Following his address, Sri. V. D. Satheesan interacted with the seminarians and responded thoughtfully to their questions, engaging in an open and meaningful dialogue on contemporary political and constitutional challenges. He also advised seminarians to become the beacons of hope in the present society. In the felicitation address, Sri. Anwar Saadath, MLA of Aluva, echoed similar concerns and reminded the gathering that protecting the Constitution is not an option but a responsibility entrusted to every generation.
The programme began with a prayer song by Bro. Jesse Puthussery, invoking divine guidance for the nation. Bro. Anto Muthukattill extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and setting the tone for the academy. In his presidential address, the Rector of Mangalapuzha Seminary, Very Rev. Fr. Stanley Pulprayil, called upon the audience to remain vigilant against growing threats to constitutional values in India. He made special mention of Sri. V. D. Satheesan’s authentic commitment to public life, appreciating his sincere efforts to integrate Gospel values into political engagement and his steadfast concern for justice and human dignity. Delivering the Message of the Day, Bro. Akhil Kalathiparambil reflected on the moral responsibility of individuals to become the watchdogs of our constitution. Drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s well-known exhortation, “Be the change you wish to see in the world,” he urged the students and participants to embody constitutional and ethical values in their personal and social lives. The meeting was further enriched by a duet sung by the II Year
Theology students, Bro. Panachikal Jerin and Bro. Thoonganparambil Philip, adding a melodious touch to the event. Bro. Prince Padayatty proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the programme.
The event concluded with the National Anthem, sung by the II Year Theology students, reaffirming unity and national commitment. This Republic Day celebration at Mangalapuzha Seminary stood as a powerful reminder that the Constitution is not merely a legal document, but a living moral vision, one that calls every citizen to vigilance, courage, and faithful commitment to the ideals on which the nation was founded.