Connecting Global Threads of Faith
From the Editorial Team
Dear Readers,
As we move through September, our newsletter brings together stories of resilience, faith, and the rich legacy of Hindu knowledge systems, while also shining a light on the pressing challenges Hindus face globally. The unifying thread running through these narratives is the profound impact of Hindu philosophy, which continues to inspire both ancient achievements and contemporary spiritual efforts.
The opening of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is not just a monumental architectural achievement but a testament to the universal values of harmony and compassion, central to Hindu dharma. The temple’s journey, now being celebrated through the show "The Fairy Tale," highlights the prevailing legacy of Hindu contributions to global spirituality. As it opens on September 13, it serves as a symbol of unity and spiritual progress, further connecting communities across faiths and geographies. In times of division, it offers a space for reflection and global togetherness, much needed today.
Equally significant is the rich intellectual heritage that Hinduism has imparted to the world. The contributions of ancient Indian scholars like Aryabhata and Brahmagupta laid the foundation for modern mathematics, with their revolutionary work on the concept of zero, pi, and trigonometry. These intellectual achievements, rooted in Hindu thought, remind us of India’s indelible influence on global scientific progress. The deep philosophical underpinnings of the Indian knowledge system, nurtured by Hinduism, continue to inspire innovation and inquiry, reinforcing the interconnectedness of science, spirituality, and intellectual growth.
However, as we celebrate these triumphs, we must not lose sight of the dire situations facing Hindu communities across the globe, particularly in Bangladesh. The fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government has unleashed a wave of violence against minorities, with Hindus bearing the brunt of this turmoil. Recent reports of forced resignations, physical attacks on teachers, and the heartbreaking death of a young Hindu girl at the border are stark reminders of the ongoing persecution our community faces. The plight of Hindus in Bangladesh mirrors the persecution faced in other parts of the world, reinforcing the need for collective action and global awareness.
The situation in Bangladesh is a sobering reflection of the global challenges that Hindus confront. Despite these struggles, the spirit of resilience, much like that embodied by the BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi, continues to guide our community through adversity. This resilience is rooted in the profound philosophical teachings of Hinduism, which have shaped not just individual lives but entire civilizations.
As we reflect on these threads of faith, knowledge, and struggle, let us remember that our collective history as Hindus is both a source of pride and a call to action. Let us continue to advocate for our global community, standing united in our efforts to preserve our rich heritage and ensure justice for those who suffer because of their beliefs.
Sincerely
Dr Vinay Nalwa
***********************************************************************
September Newsletter – 1 (September 1 – September 15)
In a world interconnected by the threads of globalization, the flow of information has become more pervasive than ever before. However, amid this vast sea of news, there exists a poignant narrative that often remains hidden – the violence against Hindus and the persecution they endure across various regions. This fortnightly report endeavours to bring out these often-overlooked incidents, providing an unbiased and comprehensive selection of news agencies’ reports on violence, persecution and discrimination faced by the Hindu community globally along with the positive reports celebrating Hindu Heritage.
The primary objective of this report is to present a clear and objective overview of incidents as reported by credible news agencies. By collating and analysing this information, our aim is to raise awareness about Hindu culture and values besides advocating for the protection of the fundamental rights and freedom of religion for Hindus worldwide.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Middle East
United Arab Emirates
The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is launching "The Fairy Tale," an immersive show that showcases the temple's incredible journey from inception to its emergence as a spiritual hub of global harmony. The show, opening to the public on September 13, offers a unique blend of visuals and storytelling.
South-East Asia
Bangladesh
A young Bangladeshi Hindu boy, Utsav Mondal, who was claimed to have been beaten to death by an angry Muslim mob inside a police station over a blasphemous social media post is alive, said the law enforcement of Bangladesh.
Hindu groups in Bangladesh are threatening nationwide protests after Utsav Mandal, a Hindu youth, was beaten in police custody over blasphemy claims. The Bangladesh National Hindu Mahazot demands justice, calling for accountability and action against those involved in the assault.
In Bangladesh, the situation has become increasingly difficult for minority communities, particularly Hindus, following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led government on August 5. Since then, at least 49 teachers from minority communities have been forced to resign from their positions, and some have even faced physical attacks, according to multiple media reports.
A 14-year-old Hindu girl fleeing Bangladesh with her parents after facing persecution was shot dead by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) while attempting to cross into India via Tripura.
India
Tensions flared in Surat, Gujarat, after stones were thrown at a Ganesh Chaturthi pandal, damaging the idol, leading to a clash between two groups. Police detained 32 people, and authorities assured strict action against the perpetrators.
Ganesh Chaturthi 2024, celebrated from September 6 to 17, marks the festive worship of Lord Ganesha, with devotees visiting famous temples across India. Iconic temples such as Lalbaugcha Raja, Siddhivinayak, and Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple draw large crowds during this festival.
Singapore
The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, one of Singapore's oldest Hindu shrines, is located in Little India and dates back to the 1800s. It remains a significant religious site for Hindus and a popular tourist attraction, especially during weekends.
Europe
Britain,
The profound impact of ancient Indian knowledge on Western civilization has often been overlooked. Indian mathematicians like Brahmagupta, who defined zero and developed arithmetic rules, and Aryabhata, with his work on pi and spherical trigonometry, laid the foundation for modern mathematics. Their innovations, transmitted through the Arab world, eventually shaped Western numerical systems and scientific understanding, highlighting India's pivotal yet underrecognized influence on global intellectual history.
______________________________________________________________
Comments