Unites various faiths in India in a march advocating for the protection of the unheard lives of unborn babies.
Fourth National March for Life Unites Faiths in India to Advocate for Life
The fourth edition of the National March for Life in India, held in Bangalore on August 9, 2025, saw a significant gathering of people from across the country and diverse religious backgrounds, united in their affirmation of the value of human life.
Archbishop Francis Kalist, Archbishop of Pondicherry-Cuddalore and Episcopal Advisor to CHARIS India and CBCI In-charge for Pro-Life, was a key figure at the event. He emphasized the importance of lay people in the pro-life mission, stating that the March for Life began due to concerns brought forth by lay faithful.
The multi-faith participation in the March for Life demonstrated that the protection of human life is a shared moral responsibility that transcends religious boundaries. Archbishop Kalist noted a renewed sense of purpose among young Catholics following the Jubilee Year of Youth, and urged them to direct this energy towards defending life in all its forms.
The presence of leaders from Muslim, Sikh, and other communities at the March reflected a growing awareness of the need for united action against threats to life, such as abortion and human trafficking. Syro-Malabar Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop of Trichur and President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), was also in attendance.
The march served as both a symbolic and vocal stand on the right to life, utilizing prayers, slogans, and music to communicate its message. A pro-life exhibition was organized at the venue, featuring educational materials, testimonies, and creative displays.
The National March for Life in India is an annual pro-life event that raises awareness and advocates against abortion, emphasizing the protection of unborn lives. Historically, the March for Life movement in India began around 2022 with modest gatherings and has since grown significantly in scale and influence. It is rooted primarily in Christian institutional frameworks and organised by groups like CHARIS India, supported by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and Catholic Connect.
Archbishop Peter Machado, Vice President of the CCBI, welcomed the gathering in Bangalore. Ajin Joseph, CHARIS Asia Youth Coordinator and CCBI Youth Commission member, helped coordinate the youth presence at the march and composed the official March for Life theme song. He called on society to listen to the "silent cry" of unborn children, who are deprived of their right to live before they can speak for themselves.
The 4th National March for Life was a testament to the expanding reach of the movement beyond its original community. Archbishop Kalist urged communities to work together so that life is cherished and defended at all stages, including the elderly, the sick, and the vulnerable against pressures towards euthanasia and neglect. He encouraged the use of formation programmes such as CHARIS India's Flesh & Bones and Vita, which present the Church’s teaching on life, marriage, and family.
In his address, Archbishop Kalist emphasized that protecting life is a responsibility rooted in our shared humanity, not bound by religion. The march attracted delegates from various parts of India and included participants from multiple communities, including Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, and others. Victor Joans, Coordinator of CHARIS India, played a key role in mobilizing participation from across the country. Cyril John, a member of CHARIS International, shared his perspective on the importance of charismatic renewal in strengthening the Church’s mission.
Sr. Paulina Melite MSMI, CHARIS India Pro-Life Coordinator, was recognized for her outreach to women and families in vulnerable situations. The Archbishop announced that Archbishop George Antonysamy of Chennai will host the next National March for Life on August 9, 2026.
The National March for Life in India continues to grow as a powerful voice advocating for the protection of human life, transcending religious and regional boundaries.
- In the midst of various political discussions and general news, the fourth National March for Life in India serves as a significant platform, uniting people from diverse religious backgrounds to voice their shared moral responsibility in protecting human life.
- The intersection of religion and politics was evident in the fourth National March for Life in India, as faith leaders from different communities, such as Catholic, Muslim, Sikh, and others, emphasized the urgent need for united action against threats to life, including abortion and human trafficking.
