Hubballi, December 21, 2025 – In a heartfelt display of interfaith solidarity, Keshwapur Police Inspector Shri. K.S. Hatti graced the ABM Telugu Baptist Church in Hubballi's Gandhiwada neighborhood during its annual Christian Candlelight Service on Saturday evening. The event, held amid flickering flames and solemn hymns, became a platform for a profound message on the universality of the human soul, as Hatti urged the gathered faithful to look beyond societal divisions.
The service, a cherished tradition in Christian communities worldwide, commemorates themes of light overcoming darkness and communal reflection. At the ABM Telugu Baptist Church – a vibrant Telugu-speaking congregation known for its outreach programs and community engagement – the evening unfolded with prayers, carols, and a collective lighting of candles that symbolized hope and unity. Inspector Hatti, a respected figure in Hubballi's law enforcement, was invited as a special guest, marking a rare and meaningful intersection of civic duty and spiritual discourse.
#### Inspector Hatti's Stirring Address
Taking the podium after the opening invocations, Inspector Hatti delivered a concise yet impactful speech that resonated deeply with the approximately 150 attendees. "The soul doesn't have any caste or religion," he declared, his words cutting through the serene ambiance like a beacon. "In the eyes of the divine, we are all one – bound not by the labels society imposes, but by the shared essence of humanity and faith."
Hatti, who serves at the Keshwapur Police Station in Hubballi, elaborated on the practical implications of this philosophy in everyday life. Drawing from his experiences in maintaining law and order in a multicultural city, he highlighted how recognizing spiritual equality can foster tolerance and reduce conflicts. "As custodians of peace, we in the police force see daily how divisions harm our communities," he added. "Events like this remind us that true harmony begins in the heart." His message aligned seamlessly with the service's meditative tone, earning applause and nods of agreement from the congregation.
This address comes at a time when Karnataka, and Hubballi in particular, grapples with navigating its rich tapestry of Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and other faith communities. Gandhiwada, a lively residential and commercial hub in the city (formerly known as Hubli), is home to a diverse population, including Telugu migrants who form the backbone of the ABM Church's flock. The inspector's presence not only elevated the event but also signaled institutional support for initiatives promoting social cohesion.
#### Leadership and Community Involvement
The service was ably led by the church's dedicated leadership team, whose efforts ensured a seamless and spiritually enriching experience
1) Rev D. RATNAKUMAR PASTOR
2) D. SAMUEL SECRETARY
3) Asst Pastor K. A. David
4) Asst Pastor J. j. Samson
5) K. Bennyson committee member
6) M Prasad committee member
Rev. Ratnakumar, in a post-service interview, expressed gratitude for Hatti's participation: "His words were a divine affirmation of our church's mission to build bridges. In a world quick to divide, voices like his light the way forward." Similarly, D. Samuel noted the growing trend of inviting public figures to church events, which has strengthened ties with local authorities.
#### Broader Implications for Hubballi
Hubballi-Dharwad, with its historical significance as a trading and educational center, has long been a melting pot of cultures. The ABM Telugu Baptist Church, established decades ago to serve the Telugu diaspora, has evolved into a community anchor, hosting not just worship services but also educational workshops, youth programs, and interfaith dialogues. This candlelight service, typically held in the lead-up to Christmas, drew families from across the city, including non-Christian neighbors curious about the inclusive vibe.
Inspector Hatti's involvement reflects a broader shift in Karnataka's policing approach toward community-oriented initiatives. As per official records, the Hubballi-Dharwad City Police under Commissionerates like Hatti's station prioritize public engagement to build trust, especially in sensitive areas like religious harmony. While no formal statistics on such cross-community events were immediately available, local observers suggest they contribute to a 15-20% dip in minor communal incidents in recent years, though challenges persist amid national debates on secularism.
The evening concluded with a shared meal and informal discussions, where attendees exchanged stories of personal faith journeys. One congregant, speaking anonymously, shared, "Hearing a police officer speak of the soul's purity made me feel safer – not just from crime, but from prejudice."
As Hubballi gears up for the holiday season, events like this at ABM Church serve as timely reminders of shared values. Inspector Hatti's visit may well inspire similar collaborations, proving that in the glow of candlelight, differences fade, and unity endures.
For more on community events in Hubballi, residents are encouraged to follow local church channels or police community outreach programs.
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