Day 3: Grand Finale
11th International Interfaith Conference 2026 – Day 3 Highlights
The Event Concludes with Young Voices & Local Community Leading the Way
The 11th International Interfaith Conference 2026, organised by City Montessori School (CMS) Rajajipuram Campus II, concluded on 26th July 2026, bringing three days of meaningful dialogue, shared learning and international collaboration to a close.
Based on the theme, “Reimagining Our World Together: Placing Gender Equality at the Heart of Humanity,” the final day reinforced a shared conviction that purposeful, values-based education remains one of the most powerful catalysts for nurturing equality, empathy and responsible global citizenship.
Local Voices Inspire Global Perspectives
The day’s proceedings began with a powerful Nukkad Natak (Street Play) performed by the students of CMS Rajajipuram I.
Following it was a panel discussion, “Local Voices, Lived Realities and Collaborative Action,” that was moderated by CMS alumna Ms Kashni Channa. Bringing together respected faith leaders and scholars, the session explored how communities can work collectively to translate shared values into meaningful action.
Aparimay Shyam Das Ji, President, ISKCON Lucknow, described values-based education as the cornerstone of gender equality, emphasising that young people can be guided towards the right path only through meaningful learning. Achintya Rupani Dasi, Preacher, ISKCON Girls Youth Forum, encouraged young girls to draw confidence from their character, integrity and inner strength rather than external validation.
Highlighting the importance of recognising women’s voices, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Firangi Mahali Sahab, Chairman, Islamic Centre of India, remarked that women deserve not only respect but also equal recognition of their ideas and contributions. Sardar Harpal Singh Jaggi, Working President and General Secretary, Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, Lucknow, reflected on the Sikh teaching “Manas Ki Jaat Ek Hai” (Humanity is One), reaffirming the principle of equality between men and women.
The discussion also featured insightful contributions from Mr Shailendra Singh, National Vice President, Bharatiya Jain Milan, Lucknow, who encouraged participants to embrace the Jain ideals of non-violence and self-discipline; Maulana Dr Kalbe Sibten Noori Sahab, who highlighted spirituality as the foundation of inner peace; and Prof Anil Sarwal of the Bahá’í Faith, Chandigarh, who inspired students to make ‘devotion to God’, ‘spiritual development,’ and ‘service to humanity’ the guiding principles of their lives.
The session was further enriched by the perspectives of Shri Bhikkhu Gyanlok Ji, In-charge, Buddha Vihar, Lucknow; BK Soni Behen Ji, Brahma Kumaris, Lucknow; and Prof. Ravikant Pathak, CMS alumnus from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, each offering valuable insights on the role of ethical leadership, compassion and spiritual values in shaping a more harmonious society.
Student Engagement Events: A Celebration of Creativity and Collaboration
The final day celebrated this spirit through a diverse range of educational and creative competitions centred on the themes of peace, equality, harmony, environmental stewardship and social cohesion. Events such as Two Wings, One Sky – Colours of Harmony, From Farm to Frame – Millets in Art, Symphony of Souls, Words that Weave Equality, Faiths United for a Greener Tomorrow, Palette of Peace – Colours from the Earth and the Interfaith Oratory Skills Competition provided students with meaningful opportunities to express their ideas through debate, declamation, painting, poster making, story writing and poetry recitation.
Participation from students representing multiple CMS campuses further strengthened the spirit of collaboration and shared learning, creating a vibrant platform for exchanging ideas and celebrating diversity. During the Valedictory Ceremony, winners were honoured with trophies, medals and certificates in recognition of their outstanding performances, while CMS Kanpur Road Campus was declared the Overall Champion, securing the Championship Trophy.