Official messages, pastoral circulars, and spiritual guidance from the Chief Shepherd of the Catholic Diocese of Udaipur.
Bishop of Udaipur
“In Love and Truth”
Consecrated as Bishop:
May 6, 2012
Appointed to Udaipur:
2012
Society of the Divine Word (SVD)
“Welcome to the official digital portal of the Catholic Diocese of Udaipur. As we journey together in faith, hope, and charity, our diocese remains committed to proclaiming Christ’s peace, empowering local communities through education and social uplifting, and fostering genuine brotherhood among all people of Southern Rajasthan. May Our Lady of Fatima intercede for our diocese.”
Most Rev. Devprasad John Ganawa SVD was born in Karwad, Jhabua. He joined the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) and was ordained a priest in 1992. He served as Bishop of Jhabua before being appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as the Bishop of Udaipur in 2012. As shepherd of the Diocese of Udaipur, Bishop Devprasad leads a vibrant flock spread across eight southern districts of Rajasthan, focusing on spiritual renewal, educational empowerment, tribal welfare, and inter-religious harmony in the Mewar and Vagad regions.
Erected the diocese on December 3, 1984, establishing essential infrastructure, schools, healthcare centers, and pastoral commissions across Udaipur and surrounding districts.
Heraldic Theology
“In Love and Truth”
The episcopal coat of arms combines sacred Catholic theology with local Rajasthani motifs, reflecting the inculturation of Christ’s love in the soil of Udaipur.
KEY HERALDIC SYMBOLS EXPLAINED:
Golden Cross of Faith:
Symbolizing the centrality of Jesus Christ in the pastoral mission.
Mewar Lotus & Peacock: Honoring the rich cultural heritage and peace of Southern Rajasthan.
Open Holy Bible & Dove: Representing the Word of God, evangelization, and the Holy Spirit.
Pastoral Staff & Star: Guiding the faithful across hills and valleys of Vagad and Mewar under Our Lady’s mantle.
Year 2026 Directives
Bishop Devprasad calls all parishes, schools, and religious houses to adopt rainwater harvesting, plant native saplings, and reduce single-use plastic in accordance with Laudato Si’.
Dear Fathers, Sisters, and beloved Faithful: As stewards of God’s creation in the beautiful Aravalli hills, we are called to protect our water bodies and soil. Every parish and institution is urged to implement green initiatives this monsoon season…
Focusing on active youth participation in parish councils, digital evangelization, and compassionate service to senior citizens.
My dear young friends: You are the dynamic present and hopeful future of the Church in Udaipur. I invite you to join the ICYM summer service camps across Banswara and Dungarpur.
