By Thomas Scaria
Mangaluru, April 14, 2026: For Ajitha, a Catholic widow in northern Kerala, and her two daughters, life had been a struggle since her husband’s death three years ago. They lived in a dilapidated thatched shed, with little hope of owning a home.
On April 10, that dream became reality when a new house was handed over near Cherupuzha in Kasargod District. The ceremony reflected more than construction — it was a testament to Kerala’s tradition of communal harmony.
The housewarming was a shared celebration: the mullah of the Juma Masjid opened the home, the parish priest of St. Alphonsa Church blessed it, and Hindu families hosted the gathering.
“It was not just a new home for us, but a reassurance of goodwill, acceptance, and coexistence in a caring community,” said Anekha Thomas, Ajitha’s eldest daughter.
Her education had been sponsored by a neighboring Muslim family, and she now works as a nurse in Mangaluru.
Building homes, building communities
The house was the 40th built under Project Shelter, a housing initiative founded by Claretian Father George Kannanthanam. The program emphasizes community participation, with neighbors contributing money, labor, and materials.
“We don’t just build homes, but communities of goodwill and shared responsibility,” said Father Kannanthanam.
Ajitha’s home was a collective effort: the Muslim community laid the foundation, the parish raised 230,000 rupees, the convent sponsored doors and windows, classmates of Ajitha’s late husband donated furniture, and Hindu families provided food for more than 300 guests.
Each house costs about 1 million rupees, with half raised locally and the rest covered by Project Shelter through small contributions from supporters.
The initiative began when Abdul Khader, a 74-year-old Muslim neighbor, approached the parish with a proposal to help Ajitha’s family. “Goodwill goes beyond barriers,” Khader said.
He prepared the land, supervised construction, and kept the parish informed. Parish priest Father Sherin Pravarthirumalayil praised the collaboration: “It was a joy working together beyond religious boundaries for a humanitarian project.”
Model of harmony
Kerala has long been recognized for its communal harmony, and Ajitha’s story is a vivid example.
Muslims, Christians, and Hindus worked side by side, each contributing according to their means. A Hindu contractor oversaw construction, while volunteers from all communities offered labor and support.
Ajitha herself was moved by the outpouring of care. “More than getting a house, I received love and acceptance from people around me, irrespective of religion or politics,” she said.
The housewarming drew 300 people, which she described as “an unforgettable experience and a sign of love and care.”
Project Shelter continues to expand across states, supporting widows, the terminally ill, and families without proper housing. With each home, the organization reinforces its mission: dignity through collective compassion.
(Photo supplied)