Dear Readers,
“Like the monsoon's gentle touch on parched earth,
Hinduism's timeless essence unfolds in sacred rebirth.
Ancient as the mountains, resilient as the sea,
It whispers truths of virtue, guiding humanity to be free.”
As the monsoon rains nourish and rejuvenate the earth, Hinduism's timeless values of resilience and endurance against all odds shine through in the face of modern challenges.
From a Hindu perspective, the proposal to display verses from the Bhagavad-Gita in Louisiana classrooms alongside the Ten Commandments heralds a dawn of inclusivity. Rajan Zed, a prominent Hindu statesman, champions this initiative, emphasizing the Gita’s profound philosophical teachings. The Hindu community in Louisiana has pledged to fund this endeavor, enhancing moral education without financial strain on the state.
In Goa, the Vaishvik Hindu Rashtra Mahotsav underscored the plight of Kashmiri Pandits and called for their rehabilitation, highlighting the enduring Hindu genocide in the valley. The convention, drawing over 2,000 delegates, stressed the need for 'Panun Kashmir' and preserving Sanatan Dharma, reflecting deep concerns about cultural erosion and the alienation of tribals from Hindu Dharma.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, escalating terrorism has forced Hindu families to flee their ancestral homes. Haroon Sarabdiyal of the Pakistan Hindu Mandir Management Committee reports widespread migration to safer areas, reflecting the dire need for international intervention. Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, acknowledged the targeted violence against religious minorities, spotlighting the urgent need to protect Hindu communities from daily threats and forced conversions.
The recent incident involving Instagram influencer Archana Makwana performing yoga at the Golden Temple highlights the severe repercussions Hindus can face for unintentional missteps. This calls for interfaith sensitivity and dialogue to protect Hindu women and foster mutual respect.
Moreover, the discovery of Lord Shiva and Vasuki Naag idols at Bhojshala underscores the site's deep Hindu heritage, reaffirming its historical and spiritual significance. These findings, emerging from the ASI's ongoing survey, offer a powerful reminder of the temple's ancient roots and the rich cultural legacy of Hinduism. The artifacts are a testament to the enduring presence and importance of Hindu traditions at Bhojshala.
As we navigate these diverse issues, let us uphold Hinduism’s core values of resilience, endurance, and profound cultural heritage. By addressing these challenges with compassion and understanding, we can build a more harmonious society, reflecting the strength and resilience of Hindu principles, akin to the earth after a monsoon shower.
Sincerely
Dr Vinay Nalwa
June Newsletter 2 (June 15 – June 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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America
United States Of America
Rajan Zed, a Hindu statesman, proposed displaying Bhagavad-Gita verses alongside the Ten Commandments in Louisiana public school classrooms to promote religious awareness and morality. The Hindu community would fund the creation and installation of these posters. The Bhagavad-Gita is a globally recognized spiritual and philosophical text. This initiative aims to respect religious diversity and foster a well-balanced, enlightened student body
Canada
A new Hindu temple, the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada, is set to open in Nova Scotia this fall. Spearheaded by the Atlantic Hindu Society (AHS), the South India-style temple has been in the works for seven years. The community has raised 90% of the necessary funds, and the temple's grand opening will feature idols of Hindu deities arriving from India. This new temple will serve as a significant spiritual and cultural center for Hindus in the Halifax area.
South Asia
India
The Vaishvik Hindu Rashtra Mahotsav in Goa called for the union government to rehabilitate Kashmiri Pandits, citing ongoing genocide in Kashmir. Organized by the Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, the convention also advocated for the propagation of Sanatan Dharma in Kashmir. The convention highlighted broader issues of Hindu vulnerability and cultural erosion, urging educational and cultural initiatives.
Instagram influencer Archana Makwana was booked for offending Sikh religious sentiments by performing yoga at the Golden Temple on International Yoga Day and sharing images on social media. Following a complaint by the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee, she received death threats and is now under police protection. Makwana has apologized, stating she was unaware of the offense her actions caused but a bigger question is for the religious leadership of Sikhs who are supporting intolerance and growth of fundamentalism.
The ongoing scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at the Bhojshala temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex in Madhya Pradesh recently uncovered significant finds, including idols of Lord Shiva and Vasuki Naag among 20 archaeological remains. Discovered on June 22-23, these artifacts highlight the complex's rich historical and cultural significance. Notable finds include a 2.5 ft Shiva idol and the Parmar dynasty's royal emblem, further underscoring the site's importance amidst ongoing Hindu and Muslim worship activities.
Pakistan
Minority families, including Hindus and Sikhs, are fleeing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, due to escalating terrorism and deteriorating security. Many have moved to Punjab, Sindh, or abroad for safety, leaving behind ancestral homes and businesses. Haroon Sarabdiyal of the Pakistan Hindu Mandir Management Committee highlighted increased target killings and terror activities in the province. Historic communities like Mohallah Jogan Shah in Peshawar are now largely abandoned as families seek peaceful lives elsewhere.
Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, admitted that religious minorities, including Hindus, Sikhs, and smaller Muslim sects, face persistent and targeted violence. He expressed concern over daily killings and the lack of safety for these groups, despite constitutional protections. Asif called for a resolution to safeguard marginalized communities, highlighting that many victims of violence have no connection to blasphemy and are often targeted due to personal vendettas. Reports from human rights organizations also emphasize forced conversions, abductions, and assaults on religious sites.
Europe
United Kingdom
In anticipation of the UK's 2024 general elections, British Hindus have launched their inaugural 'Hindu Manifesto UK 2024', marking a milestone in their political influence. Backed by 29 leading Hindu organizations, the manifesto outlines key demands including hate crime recognition, safeguarding of places of worship, fair education access, and immigration reforms. With over 1 million Hindus in England and Wales, their collective voice seeks to shape policies and ensure representation, underscoring their growing impact on the UK's electoral landscape.
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