Caritas India Celebrates International Men’s Day

Caritas India marked International Men’s Day on 19 November by felicitating its male staff members. The celebration was a surprise event organized by the women staff to acknowledge the often unspoken and uncelebrated contributions of men to their families, workplaces, communities and society.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Jesudass R., Executive Director of Caritas India, highlighted the quiet but significant role men play in building a safer and progressive society. “Men play an equal and important role in shaping society, yet their contributions are often overshadowed due to the actions of a few. We must recognize and respect the tremendous weight of responsibility that many men carry silently,” he said.

Fr Jesudass also thanked the women staff for taking the initiative to organize the felicitation, noting that the gesture itself was a meaningful tribute. He underscored the importance of recognizing the complementary roles of women and men and urged both to work together with mutual respect. “God created man first but created woman to make the world complete. Happiness comes when men and women learn to live with respect, care and appreciation for each other,” he added.

Ms. Sunita Ashwin, HR Lead, spoke about the strength and commitment men bring to their responsibilities. She appreciated their quiet perseverance, their willingness to bear hardships, and their dedication to providing for their families. “International Men’s Day is a moment to express gratitude to the men who offer shade to others while standing in the heat of responsibility,” she said, stressing the need for due recognition.

As part of the celebration, women staff members presented mufflers, flowers and chocolates to their male colleagues. The women also dressed in black to symbolically convey the colors of happiness and appreciation towards the men.

Fr Benny Edayath, Assistant Executive Director, reflected on the message of International Men’s Day, reminding everyone of the essential contribution of men and the responsibility that comes with it. “Both sexes have distinct but complementary roles. When men and women work together in an environment of respect and appreciation, families, society and the nation flourish,” he said.

The event also featured reflections from staff members who shared their experiences and acknowledged the supportive and caring roles played by men within the organisation and in their personal lives.