In Karnataka, the scene of sectarian violence in recent years, the relic of St John Bosco has attracted substantial non-Christian crowds, who visit the sacred display to offer prayers, local Church leaders have said.

Hindus and Muslims have sought solace and healing at the foot of the relic, which arrived in Karnataka last week.

“A large number of non-Christians have visited and prayed before the relic,” said Father Thomas Anchukandam.

“Desiring spiritual blessings from a Christian saint, we have come to visit,” said a Hindu woman identified only as Vasanthi who came with her family from Shirva near Mangalore.

A Muslim visitor, who identified himself only as Mumthaz, said he had come to the relic “to be blessed and healed of my tensions.”

Fr Anchukandam said the presence of the relic in an area with a history of anti-Christian violence had caused alarm among Church leaders.

“We are witnessing huge crowds. Even though we were apprehensive that fundamentalist elements would foment trouble, so far there have been no problems.”

Violence that erupted in 2008 saw a series of attacks on Christians and about two dozen churches in Karnataka.

“Local media, though controlled by Hindus, has given good publicity to the relic pilgrimage,” said Fr Jose Valiaparambil, vicar general of Bethangady diocese.

The relic is expected to arrive in Hyderabad on September 6.

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