Global Threads of Faith
From the Editorial Team
Dear Readers
In the ebb and flow of time, there are stories that refuse to fade, etched in the collective memory of those who have suffered, yet remain unseen by a world that chooses to turn away. The history of Hindus in Bangladesh is one such story—a saga of pain, strength, and survival against an unyielding tide of persecution. This narrative, stretching from the harrowing days of Partition to the massacres of 1971, and now into the 21st century, is a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that has been besieged by violence, yet has never lost its faith or hope.
The recent reports from Bangladesh paint a bleak picture, one that echoes the darkest chapters of the past. The Hindu population, once a vibrant and integral part of the country's fabric, has dwindled dramatically, from 22% in 1951 to 7.9% in 2022. This is not just a statistic; it is the culmination of years of systematic oppression, land grabbing, and forced migrations. The fall of the Awami League government has only exacerbated these tensions, leaving the Hindu community vulnerable to targeted attacks that seem eerily reminiscent of the atrocities during Partition and the 1971 genocide.
What makes this ongoing persecution even more chilling is the deafening silence of the global community. The massacres, the destruction of homes and temples, the abductions, and the assaults on women—these are acts of violence that should stir the conscience of the world. Yet, they remain largely unacknowledged, hidden beneath the more politically convenient narratives of our time. This silence is not just an omission; it is a complicity that allows such atrocities to continue unchecked.
In contrast to this grim reality, there are glimmers of hope that shine through the darkness, highlighting the values of compassion and service that are at the heart of Hindu and Krishna devotee philosophies. The selfless acts of ISKCON devotees in Bangladesh, who continue to distribute food and aid to flood victims even in the face of direct attacks on their temples, are a powerful reminder of the resilience and humanity that persist despite the odds. Their unwavering commitment to serving those in need, regardless of the dangers they face, stands as a beacon of what it truly means to live by the principles of dharma—righteousness and duty.
However, the vibrant Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan, the preservation of ancient traditions such as the 2,000-year-old chariot festival in Tiruvottiyur, and the rejoining of 100 members of ethnic tribes to Hinduism in Assam, all serve as a testament to the enduring cultural and spiritual heritage of Hinduism. These stories are not just about rituals and traditions; they are about a community's unyielding connection to their roots.
As we reflect on the reports from the latter half of August, it is clear that the narrative of Hindu persecution in Bangladesh is not just a chapter of history but an ongoing tragedy that demands our attention. The world may choose to remain silent, but we must not. The stories of those who suffer must be told, their voices amplified, and their plight addressed with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. In doing so, we not only honor the memory of those who have been lost but also stand in solidarity with those who continue to endure. Let this editorial serve as a reminder that in the face of indifference, our duty is to speak out, to act, and to never forget.
Sincerely
Dr Vinay Nalwa
August Newsletter - 2 (August 15 – August 30)
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.
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South-East Asia
Bangladesh
The situation in Bangladesh is alarming as the Hindu population has declined by 0.59% over the last decade (about 4% in the previous decade) amidst ongoing violence and persecution. The recent political upheaval following the fall of the Awami League government has exacerbated the vulnerability of Hindus, who face targeted attacks, looting, and land grabbing.
The ongoing massacre of Hindus in Bangladesh, exacerbated after the resignation of ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, reveals a disturbing pattern of targeted violence. Hindu homes and temples are being destroyed, lives are lost, and women face abductions and assaults, echoing the historical atrocities during Partition and the 1971 war. Despite international condemnation, the world remains largely silent on what is, in essence, an unacknowledged genocide against the Hindu community.
India
At Salem's Muniyappa Swami Temple in Tamil Nadu, devotees follow a unique ritual of offering Rs 11 tied in a yellow cloth, believing it will fulfil their wishes. The temple is renowned for resolving issues like land disputes and marriage problems, with many devotees reporting their problems are resolved within 40 days after worship. This tradition reinforces the strong faith devotees have in the deity's power.
In Mathura, thousands of devotees celebrated Janmashtami with fervor, participating in rituals and prayers at Lord Krishna temples. Key events included the 'Mangala Aarti' at Krishna Janmabhoomi and the 'Chhathi Pujan' at Nand Bhavan in Gokul.
Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan are particularly special due to their deep connection with Lord Krishna's life. The festivities begin ten days in advance with cultural events like rasleelas and culminate in the midnight abhishek ritual at Krishna temples.
In Tiruvottiyur, the Metro Rail tracks were elevated to preserve the traditional route of a 2,000-year-old chariot during the annual temple festival. This historic chariot, associated with the Sri Thyagarajaswamy and Vadivudaiamman temple, holds deep cultural significance, having been visited by Tamil Saints and Carnatic composers. Despite urban developments, the chariot's legacy remains central to the town's identity.
In Amsoi, Assam, 100 members from 20 tribal families who had previously converted to Christianity have rejoined Hinduism in a ceremony organized by the Sadao Hindu Dharma-Sanskriti Suraksha Samiti. This event highlights ongoing efforts by Christian missionaries to convert ethnic tribes
In Patna's Fatua village, the Bihar Sunni Waqf Board issued a notice claiming the land as theirs and ordered villagers, predominantly Hindus with ancestral ownership, to vacate within 30 days. Despite the villagers' solid land documents, the Waqf Board's claim was found baseless by the District Magistrate, sparking outrage and concern among the residents.
North America
United States of America
A float in New York City's India Day Parade featuring the Ram Mandir has sparked controversy, with opponents labeling it anti-Muslim and calling for its removal. Critics argue that the float symbolizes religious supremacy and violence against Muslims, while parade organizers defend it as a celebration of a significant Hindu landmark. Despite the backlash, the organizers emphasize the parade's theme of unity and peaceful coexistence.
On August 18, a 90-foot-tall Hanuman statue was inaugurated at Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas, marking it as the third tallest statue in the U.S. This Panchaloha Abhaya Hanuman statue stands as North America's tallest representation of the deity, symbolizing strength, devotion, and hope. The grand Pran Pratishtha ceremony underscores the statue’s role in providing a spiritual epicenter and fostering divine blessings for future generations.
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