“The Challenge Before Modern Day Hinduism” – Dr Ajai Singh

I agree with the sentiment: It’s good to raise awareness of societal issues in India and work towards a noble cause of providing welfare and healthcare to society. karma theory kinda blows into your face especially if you are down and out.

Set up quality Hindu hospitals/primary health care centers where the health needs of Hindus are looked after.

But Hindu hospitals to take care of Hindus?? Seriously?? Hindu Hospital, Christian hopsital, Jain hospital, muslim hospital, brahmin hospital, obc hospital, parsi hospital, …sure. sure.

All this to:
keep the flock of Hinduism intact.

Good one. 🙂

Shantanu, I’m just curious. According to the previous definition (with all the big deal about dharma/pantha/sindhu/hindu etc), all the hospitals in India are “hindu hospitals”. Am I missing something? Even the christians in India are “hindu christians”. So if you go to St. Mary’s hospital in any indian city, you are actually going to a “hindu christian hospital”.

I am somehow not being able to differentiate between hospital, hindu hospital, hindu christian hospital, hindu muslim hospital, etc. I am all for charity and hard work required to take care of the poor and needy. We definitely need hospitals. But please “hindu hospitals”? Silly me. 🙂

While Mr. Aheer above seems to see day-to-day common-enough problems like the sick not having hospitals to go to from the prism of ‘Hindu’ or ‘Christian’ or ‘Muslim’ I tend to see this as infrastructure that the state must provide or facilitate to create. Before someone says – that’s idealistic – let me say that individual/private do-gooders whether fired by philanthropic or religious (more commonly) zeal fill in gaps in state enabled infrastructure, but they cannot be expected to provide everything. In any case the religious always do so with strings attached.

In my view ‘Hinduism’ cannot compete with Christianity or Islam as an organized religion since this never was one historically speaking and not many Hindus will allow the formation of an organized one. Several hundred years of British dominion and Islamic dominion before that have schooled Hindus, particularly educated ones, to view their religion against the standard set by the semitic ones – e.g. how much strings-attached philanthropy are we doing, are we proselytizing competitively, are we ‘educating’ our youths in our scriptures, how does the Gita score over the Koran or Bible, do we give the socio-emotional support to our distressed fellow Hindus as effectively as ‘they’ do and so on.

This may lead to a question – how did ‘Hinduism’ survive the onslaught of Islam and then later Christianity and even today we’re 80% of India – the majority! Could it be that our Islamic brethren (mostly converts) were not like their Wahabi/Salafi co-religionists and did’nt take advantage of their political power while they had it. Once displaced by the Christian British their power faded away. Then the Brits did’nt really mix Christian conversions with their politics (remember separation of Church and State) and left the converting to the missionaries. And Hinduism as we know it and some of us practice it survived.

Shantanu, to your comment to Nastik regarding being secular and following a religion – how would you do this in politics i.e. in strengthening democratic practices and principles – being secular and religious whilst engaging in politics sounds impossible unless one simply calls truly democratic agendas religious ones.

One of my scotting friend asked me, ‘we give money to churches which are given back to society, i’m sure you also give to hindu temples, why is it not used for the poor poeple in India?’.
Obviously I couldn’t tell him about our government temple boards and where the money gets routed. I could only laugh inside my mind and somehow ducked his question.

How clean linen must be washed? Till it get ripped and torn apart. Right!

One eye closed view and tongue lashing Hinduism will not make a world better place to live. I dont agree with sanjeev because I have never seen any influence of RSS on Hinduism. I dont think people will leave the faith because of few politicians, RSS and Sena. Public has come a long way and caste system is now old talk. Every religion has caste. Every one has to work on something.

Sanjeev,
Don’t worry – people will not leave Hinduism because of caste system. They did not do that under the British rule.
People will leave Hinduism because they know nothing about it – what you don’t know is what you will not value.
This is what christians and commies are targetting in India. They are systematically destroying organizations and frameworks that propagate the knowledge of Hinduism. This is being done on a large scale through impants everywhere.
E.g., A village temple would have a family of priests who would sustain themselves and impart knowledge to the village. Today, the temple is under government control. The chain is broken and the knowledge is gone. The village is susceptible to conversion.
Add to it, the media, education system etc and people know nothing about Hinduism. We keep reading caste discrimination etc. So younger people don’t know anything about the religion and what they know is negative.
Unless we get back Hindu temples we will not win the battle. This is a concerted strategy by the SOnias, YSRs and others. Also, the people who are betraying Hinduism are the convent school educated fools.

About conversions to Hinduism, I feel nobody has touched about this. The first one to start was probably SriLa Praphupad and then many Indian swamis did it. But the most significant one is Siva Subramuniyaswami ( note the word muniya) an American initiated by a Sri Lankan Hindu yogi, who lived some time with Ramana Maharishi. http://www.gurudeva.org. is their web site. Then you have http://www.stephen.knapp a single managed super web site. You have http://www.dharmacentral.com. There are many western followers of Mata Amritanandamayi from Kerala. I write this to point out that conversions do take place to Hinduism. The difference here is the way it is done. There is no coercion and many even do not change their names. It starts as curiousity and then proabably they get fed up of western materialism and come to Sanatan Dharma for solace, voluntarily.

Sri Aurobindo and Ramana Maharishi had huge French and British followers. Arthur Osborne, Paul Brunton and many others have written and eulogised about Ramana in the past. Adam Osborne (son of Arthur Osborne) the founder of Osborne computers ( now defunct) came to breathe his last at Arunachala. There are many more western followers of Ramana. It is impossible to list them here.

Ambedkar and Rahman

The comparsion of Amedkar wth Rahman is misplaced. BR Ambedkar who was wronged a lot by the upper castes, did not convert to the Abrahmic religions, which offered him a lot of incentives. But according to this book

Conversion to modernities: the globalization of Christianity By Peter van der Veer, 1996, Routledge.

The extract below from page 106-107 of this book reveals the fierce intellect of Babasaheb Ambedkar.

” But even when Ambedkar sought to rewrite Buddhism as a liberation theology for dalits, it is clear that Buddhism was made to carry added cultural weight in order to establish the appropriateness of converting to this faith rather than Islam , Christianity, Sikhism, Jainism , the other possiblities which Ambedkar had considered. Though all of Ambedkar’s postures indicated an abiding and irreversible decision to sever himself and his fellow dalits from all ties that bound them to Hinduism , he was never able to fully unfasten the link that he believed existed between Hinduism and India. At no point of time did he seriously entertain Islam or Christianity as real choices, and his writings and speeches abound in references to these as foreign religions alien to India and further alienating the already deracinated subjects. [ Ref {“Condition of the convert” In Writings and Speeches 5″ Reprinted in Christianising the Untouchables}”]. His dismissal of Islam and Christianity as religions that threaten to ” denationalise” untouchables by extending the hold of foreign powers spurned transnational alliances as a mode of consolidating dalit power”

Now if you compare Rahman and the Pir curing his sister miraculously and then the family converting ( one of his brother in law refused to convert and then divorced his sister who converted. This man’s son is GV Suryaprakash, a film music director on his own) makes one wonder if the words ” denationalise” and “transnational alliances” used in the text book extract presented above won the Oscar.

One has to admire BR Ambedkar’s resilience and tenacity. His clash with MK Gandhi and his critique of Hinduism is an intellectual edifice, which itelf is a million Oscars of sophistication and refined national intellect.

One can emulate BRAmbedkar’s life to reform Hinduism and as Ajay Singh says in doing positive things and not take a confrontational path, but in my book , clubbing BR Ambedkar and AR Rahman in the same league looks misplaced. Ambedkar is far ahead of AR Rahman , luminous and luminous to eternity.

Upanishads offer a very valuable spiritual advancenment, irrepective of being of a lower or an upper caste.
Baba ramdev similarly emphasises the positive things of sanatana dharma. No need to bring castes and RSS into every discussion.

It is certainly an interesting take that providing education and health benefits to the ‘target’ Hindus would certainly reduce the attraction of converting to other religions. But I guess the trigger in a majority of conversions is also money.

I wonder if there is any study done on the state of the converts after a few years, using education and medical facilities as parameters. What I mean is – what happens once they are ‘successfully’ converted?

Increase in literacy rates amongst recent converts (10-15 years) and any stats on their health conditions (I know this is very difficult to obtain) would make interesting reading.

Regards, Hari

I agree with gajanan on his point about Rahman.

Also, I don’t think Hinduism was the culprit in Rahman’s case. Read his writings and interviews on this topic and the stories he mentions and you will know how converts think and behave!

The way Ajai Singh describes the state of Hinduism today, it is as though it is a sick patient with a chronic illness which is also slowly bleeding to death. In fact, that is an accurate picture. Hinduism is plagued by inconsistencies between its beliefs and practices , where all humans, in fact all beings are considered a part of Brahman, and yet individuals manage to treat each other badly on the basis of caste. In addition, it is being bled to death by aggressive missionaries who have unlimited funds to engage in seek and destroy missions where they target the weakest groups for conversion.

However, Singh’s prescription for the cure is flawed. He wants to cure the chronic ailment without addressing the massive bleeding. That really is the road to death. Unless we address the foreign funding of missionaries and the aggressive , often fraudulent proselytizing engaged in by these missions, we won’t be able to solve our problems of reforming Hinduism.

We really need strong anti-conversion laws along the lines of what Israel and Greece have, where the local religions cannot be a target for evangelical ambitions. Yes , I know the argument of human rights etc. but I am assuming here that human rights means that humans have the right to protect their religious adherents from foreign and local aggression. This is the same position that the Jewish state and the Greek Orthodox one take. Thus, both these nations do not allow the evangelical groups from North America to operate in their countries.

Now, missionaries have always been in India—they have been around for the last 200 years if not longer. However, we only see the conversion rates increasing in the last 40 years. In addition, we are on the verge of losing the North East part of the country because of the rampant conversions and church backed militants. So stopping missionary activity, especially foreign missionary activity is of paramount importance , not only in saving Hinduism, but also India. It is not a question of religion anymore, but one of national integrity and security.

I disagree with Harapriya, Indian on the need to have a conversion law. I feel there should not be any anti conversion law. People should be free to promote their religions, including Hinduism, or any new religions. And people should be free to convert, based on what they like (or call themselves ‘atheists’ Or following ‘multiple faiths’).

Freedom is paramount. Force of any kind should be prohibited by law – forceful conversion to OR away from any religion.

And ofcourse, any kind of violent activity or militancy should not be tolerated.

Great!!!!!
We Indians are still expert in beating around the bush.
I believe this is a primary fault of education system existing in India apart form IIT’s and IIM’s.

Gautam Buddha, Mahavir Swami, Pramukh Swami were Hindus. Please look into their work and their followers.
I will request all the above to consider this point.

I commend Ajai Singh for his thinking. At least some one dared to think and want to work for.
I request Ajai Singh for a clearly layed out plan if any. Else we can start forming this organization and layout the plan.

|| NAMO BHAARTAM NAMO SANSKRITAM ||

AAryan

Here’s a recent example of fraudulent behaviour by churches:

LINK

First of all, let me thank Shantanu for putting this up, and thank all of you for so actively discussing it. We have a vibrant group of people here.
I will try and answer as many posts as I can.
……………………………….
‘Indian’ appreciates the writeup. Thanks.
He writes – we can do more than the Missionaries.
Sure. Much more. But let’s first do for our coreligionists what they have for theirs, and then surpass them.
I am happy to know he wants to do something constructive in the matter. Most welcome.
…………………………………………..
‘Hindu Atheist’ is blunt, and I like that. He asks:
Hindu hospitals to take care of Hindus?
Why not? Medicine is value neutral [must look after all regardless of caste, creed etc], but patients are not. They belong to certain groups, and those groups should look after their needs in the best way possible.
What have the followers of Hinduism done in an organised manner to look after their poor and underprivileged when they are most vulnerable – when they are sick?
Next to nothing.
That’s why this needs to be done. It is not to divide the population of India into Hindu, Muslim, Parsi, Christian etc. It is to make the Hindus realise what good awaits doing. And cannot be postponed.
And if I may just answer the other point about ‘Hindu Christian’ and ‘Hindu Muslim’, it will be clear if the term Hinduism is properly understood. It has at least three connotations. 1. Hinduism as a religion; 2. As a culture; and 3. As a way of life that is the product of a certain geographical area. People think of Hinduism as a culture [not as a religion] when they talk of ‘Hindu Christian’, ‘Hindu Muslim’ etc. I am referring to Hinduism as a religion, and Hindus as belonging to that group. Period.
…………………………………..

‘Nitwik Nastik’ thinks the goal maybe noble but the effort misplaced. It’s the governments job to look after its citizens, and why should we be narrow minded and wear the glasses of religion?
The govt is doing its job by setting up PHCs and municipal/govt hospitals and municipal and other schools. The quality of care there we all know about. It functions against numerous odds, mainly of funds and morale.
It’s here that followers of religion can get constructively involved in looking after their own flock. When these are well educated, and healthy, only then will they be able to work hand in hand with the rest for a strong vibrant India.
Religion is narrow when it works to divide and spread ill will amongst followers. Religion is great when it looks after its followers and makes them strong and useful to society. It is the second form of religion that I champion.
……………………………………………
B. Shantanu wants me to respond to ‘Hindu Hospital’, and I think I already have. A Hindu hospital is one managed by a Hindu trust primarily for the welfare of Hindus, but in which a patient of any religion is welcome. Even doctors and other staff can be from other religions. Like it is in a convent school. The teachers and staff, even students, can be from any religion. But make no mistake about it, the policy decisions and vision is set by a Board which has only Christians.
And I agree that being secular in relation to other religionists does not mean you do not work to look after the legitimate needs of your coreligionists.
……………………………………………..
Ashwani Kumar is anguished, and I understand why.
Just let’s remember that we question and raise objections, but have an open mind to get convinced too. And when convinced by what’s right, follow it up with appropriate action.
Then Ashwani Kumar’s anguish will turn into his delight.

………………………………………………………..
Hrishi wants the state to provide for facilities, and that’s correct too. It is doing it in its own way.
Does that absolve the Hindus from doing something for their own people? At least on realizing that they have done precious little for the poor and underprivileged from amongst their flock?
Hinduism need not compete with anyone. It just needs to do something for its flock. We have not been united earlier is no reason not to be so now, in a constructive manner, for our coreligionists.
To answer another point about how Hinduism survived. We only survived during foreign domination, we did not prosper. And due to centuries of foreign rule, have only learnt survival instincts, and sometimes reactive methods, and very little proactive measures.
What is needed now is to do something proactive, in an organized manner, and in a constructive direction.
Another point that you raise about religion and politics. Being religious while engaging in politics is not impossible. I respect your need to practice your religion, but I will not allow religion to become a rallying point to stall any constructive programme for the people, either in my own religion or any other.

……………………………………………………

Sanjeev,
Ramakrishna Mission does wonderful work, so does the RSS in its own way, though it has become the favourite whipping boy of many.
You have made a strong point about the drawbacks of the caste system. It probably was a useful form of division of labour once upon a time. Today, it has got fossilized, and hurts healthy interaction between coreligionists. It either needs to be abolished, or needs to be drastically revamped to cater to changed times.
You do not like the violent manifestations of Hinduism. Strident forms of religion arise when they do not find constructive outlets, or do not have a clear vision. I still have hope that the vision can be shifted from violence and angry affirmations due to past hurts and foreign subjugation. The agenda has to shift to clear cut constructive action for the long term welfare of one’s coreligionists. That is why I outlined the four point four phase programme. See at

…………………………………..

I will try and answer the rest of you in a subsequent post.
My best wishes to all of you. And thanks indeed for enlightening me with your views by writing in.
And Shantanu, keep up the good work. You are doing a great job of keeping such a vibrant group together, and keeping them in order too. Not that easy at times, though!

Ajai
13 Mar 2009

Ajai singh, very well said!

Unlike other hospitals, Hindu Hospital will make a difference. Treatment will be complete free (of allurement)no hidden price tag of conversion. And also no fake diagnosis that someone is sick because you are not following so and so faith.

I will continue from where I left yesterday. Please pardon the lengthy answers. All of you have spent so much time and energy responding. I thought I must respond to as many as possible, and do justice to your points. Hence the detailed responses.

………………………..

Post No 9
Shantanu, may I just add that religion not as a means of them versus us but as a means of self purification and noble ideals that guide one in one’s dealings with others cannot be delinked from any activity of man, whether politics, business or profession. It’s the mentality of looking after the needs of one’s community neglecting national interests, or using it for garnering votes or defeating a good cause or reform that is the culprit.
So we need to have more religious and God fearing people in politics, but not those who use their religion as a handle to manipulate people and agendas.

………………………………………..
Post 10

Nanda is hurt because someone deplored the RSS, the caste system, the Karma Theory.
It’s not that the RSS is the cause of any exodus from Hinduism. It’s an organization with lofty ideals, though with a lowered morale being disillusioned with the pace at which things are moving for them. But don’t you see that the upper castes did precious little for their lower caste brethren earlier, and even now? And the RSS is composed of many from the upper castes? It has also a lot to do to redeem itself on this count? Do we have any doubts on that?
If the RSS were to give up everything else and just work on the four point four phase programme outlined earlier, it will redeem itself, and find a worthy goal to achieve. Let it just forget everything else for the next half century. Then see what happens.
I agree that in olden times the king was a major patron of philanthropic activities. And a lot of such philanthropic activities carry on even today, funded by well meaning Hindus and religious leaders. But is there a concerted, coordinated effort to bring about a well thought out constructive change? Not piecemeal, not short term, not isolated efforts here and there?
I am talking of such an effort that is needed, and which is put forward as the four point four phase programme.
And please do not feel that I am against the great Karma Theory. It has got many merits indeed. I only said that offering it as a tranquillizer to the poor and underprivileged is a convenient way to keep them that way and assuage our guilt at not doing something for them. Every theory, when used wrongly, can cause disaster.
Please tell me some of the hundreds of points Hinduism has to offer for its poor. I am waiting to be enlightened, as are so many more.
I am not blaming Hinduism, I am anguished at its sorry state today, which I would want to remedy, as much as you would.
But to do that, let’s see the faults and weaknesses as they are. If we hide them, what repairs are ever possible?
Hinduism is a great religion, but it needs to be fundamentally resurrected with some solid constructive work.
Hope you do not find the programme suggested as deplorable as earlier.
…………………………………………….

Nanda,
Yes the Govt controls the temple funds at many places. But probably we ourselves are to blame. We misused them, we didn’t account for them, authorities were waiting to take over. If we manage our affairs well, there is a central hawk eye of Hindus which does not allow for such misappropriation, and manages its affairs internally, who then dare interfere in our affairs?
The problem is we don’t get united over issues that must concern us, we condone faults in our coreligionists, we shield our pandas and other usurpers in temple premises, and expect no one to object.
Have you tried going to any Hindu shrine in the north [or even at Puri] and not come out with a bad taste in the mouth? Where is the question of developing a communion with God, one is only busy fending off greedy priests.
Reforms. Reforms. No shielding. No singing past glories. No anger. No nursing past hurts.
That is the agenda for Hinduism to get reenergized, my friends.

…………………………………..
Post 12

Nitwit Nastik,
Good question. Rallying on humanity and secular values is of course ideal. And somewhere down the line this is where this movement is going to lead in the future.
But first some concrete constructive action by a major group of Indians – Hindus- for their own brethren. Something they have never looked into in a concerted manner.
Remember, we are looking into the health and educational needs of the poor and the underprivileged from amongst a majority of Indians – Hindus. We are giving them, and the rest who work for it, a cause to feel proud of their religion.
I know a Christian can feel pride in his religion, so can a Muslim.
What cause do we give the Hindus, a major chunk of Indians to feel proud of, except for their past glories and their profound philosophy? All these were in the past. Our forefathers did a lot. What are we doing, except resting on their laurels?
There is an unfinished business they left us. We have to work for the upliftment of our poor and underprivileged. By concrete action.
The goal is simple. Just have one Hindu school, one Hindu college, and one Hindu hospital [Primary Health Center where hospital is not possible] per one lac population of Hindus.
Work on this. The lot of the ordinary Hindu improves. He knows his coreligionists care for him. No more Ambedkars or Rahmans then.
I can assure you many who have left the fold will want to come back. Many who want to dissociate – the Sikhs, the Jains etc – will change their plans. The reasons are simple. Few will associate with the weak, or the big talker who does little. Many who pride in calling themselves atheists or are apologetic Hindus will be proud to belong to this great religion once again.
The ultimate goal will be a resurgent, reconstructed Hindu working for a strong, prosperous country.
Then let anyone dare stop us from being a strong economic and political power. Or stop us from the Security Council. Or create a ruckus at our frontiers.
I think this much is enough for a day.
Enjoy a relaxing but thoughtful weekend.

Ajai
14 Mar 2009

Ajai Singhji.

GOOD POST.
Thanks for this initiative as I share your concerns with regard to our culture,heritage and country.

can u pls give ur mail ID.

sharadakashyap

@ Ajai R Singh,

Excellent proposal.
A number of organisations are already involved in this effort, such as RK Mission, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Chinmayananda Mission, Mata Amritanandamayi Mission etc. etc…
More efforts in this direction is definitely praiseworthy and worthwhile.

>> …What cause do we give the Hindus, a major chunk of Indians to feel proud of, except for their past glories and their profound philosophy? All these were in the past…

Here is the difference between the religion of Chritianity, Islam and the ancient culture of India.
The former two have stopped growing- philosophically and spiritually.
The one God has spoken whatever he had to speak, through the one true Prophet. And you can’t do anything about it now. You can’t question its interpretation given by the Church or the Imam.
By contrast the Vedas and Upanishads and the Puranas guide you on your way to spiritual advancement and enlightenment.

‘All these were in the past’ is as meaningless as saying you and your spiritual aspirations had relevance only in the past.

>>“..Please tell me some of the hundreds of points Hinduism has to offer for its poor. …”

Christ is said to have told the grieving and the oppressed- ‘Rejoice! You are the chosen ones, the Kingdom of God is for you.’

The rich and powerful are too involved enjoying their day to day routines that they don’t seek to find the Kingdom of God, which is really within.

The missionaries, contrary to Christ, patronise the rich and powerful, gather money from them and essentially buy converts.

The grieving and the oppressed however, have no reason to rejoice merely because they are grieving and oppressed.
They have reason to rejoice if they feel within them what is known in Sanskrit as Vairagya and look deeply at the experience called life and thus seeking, arrive at the truth that life and its experiences are creations of mind.
That Kingdom of God is within oneself.

There is a concept in India that material desires are the root cause of sadness, pain.
When one attains one’s desire, he is prompted to desire more. Like fire, they keep growing as one tries to satiate them.

The grieving , the oppressed, stand a better chance of developing Vairagya and thus embarking on a journey to self discovery than the materially rich.

The Vedas, Upanishads and the Puranas are guides to such a seeker of truth on his journey to enlightenment. Like a lighthouse that provides direction to the confused seaman in a dark squally night, indian scriptures provides direction to the seeker.

The poor of today are materially richer than the ancient sages who divined the scriptures.

It would be well if the so-called poor as well as the rich of today discover the riches of the materially poor spiritually rich sages of ancient times.

>>”..I am waiting to be enlightened, as are so many more…”

Seek and you shall find, so said Jesus.

Vedas start with paying homage to Agni. The fire within seeking spiritual enlightenment.
So stop waiting ….
Enlightenment is not a bus that you wait for and board.
It is a destination you have to reach yourself.
You can refer to the Vedas, Upanishads and Puranas like a map, to reassure yourself of the way.

Creation of hospitals and educational institutions are noble efforts and wish you all success in realising your aim.

Thank you deeply

“Above all, as a Hindu I belong to the only major religion in the world that does not claim to be the only true religion.”

If that’s the case, would Shashi Tharoor be fine with converting to Christianity or Islam, since according to his views and beliefs, his “religion” is not the only true religion? There’s something illogical going on here – he is drawing certain distinctions between his faith/religion and other religions, but then at the same time, also equating them all.

I will continue to answer some more posts, my friends.

Post No 13
Comment by Indian
Cannot vouch for others, but my intention at least is not to tongue lash Hinduism. I have the greatest respect for it. That places upon me the greater responsibility to introspect on what are the faults still to be remedied, and do something about it.
People may not leave the faith because of strident forms of Hinduisms, but they will surely get disillusioned, and the activists may lose steam, or remain under the illusion that violence and aggression against other religions is the remedy.
That has to be remedied by constructive action. And I have laid one plan before you. Let’s get down to discussing its worth and its nitty gritties. That would be time well spent.
Caste system works in a subtle way to still divide the Hindus. Every religion may have caste, but the greatest sufferer is the religion where it originated.
Indeed everyone has to work on something. Let’s then work on ours.

…………………………………..

Post 14
Thanks Kartikey. Your simple three words show you are ready to do something for the cause. Appreciate that.

……………………………………..
Post 15
Nishika’ anguish is understandable. There are many forces working against Hinduism. Communism as an ideology, and Christianity as an alternative faith. They both would love to prove how they are a better alternative to the Hindu, ignorant as he is of the greatness of his faith. Hence, a systematic grounding in the essentials of his religion is a must, and temples where such grounding could take place can help. So the agitation to regain control over them must not stop.
I suggest Hindu schools where such grounding can be well imparted. The school must have a small temple attached, where Hindu children learn to pray, and learn about the basics of their religion. But for that, the Hindu think tanks must unite to decide what these basics are, and stop sounding vague and all-inclusive. It’s good to feel you are the best by being all-inclusive, but its suicidal to be vague if you want your children to understand and follow the faith.
There is a very good tradition of place of worship in Christian mission schools. While children of other religions study moral science, Christian children study about their religion. Even in hallowed institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, there are chapels in the premises of educational institutes.
You called the convent educated Hindus fools. They are not, they are very smart, but ignorant of the essentials of Hinduism. They are so because we did not provide them the necessary information.
We didn’t set up schools for them, or train them in the essentials of Hinduism. And yet expect them to be its champions. How can that be possible?
Some others looked after their education. Influenced them at critical stages of development. How can they not be their champions?
Hence, all the more reason to have Hindu schools and colleges.
Let’s convert our anger and exasperation into constructive action, Nishika.

……………………………………

Post 16
No competition with any religion, Esh. Just trying to remedy what’s wrong with ours, and learning from the good wherever available.
There is no slippery slope to avoid. There is a lot of unfinished work to be done for our co-religionists, which responsibility we better wake up to. And stop denying our problems by feeling good about our strong points. We have many, but we have many drawbacks too. So look at them clearly, and the action plan cannot escape you.
There is no commerce involved. We are not selling anything to anyone. We have to raise money, if at all, to set our own house in order.
And let’s for God sake stop saying we are not a religion, but a way of life. We are a religion and a way of life, as are all others. No need to be high sounding and condescending there. We may feel we are better, but so can they. This superiority-inferiority thinking leads to one-upmanship in individuals, and strife amongst religions. Hardly a conducive environment to constructive growth.
Secondly, may I also mention in passing here that we may want to include all in our all inclusive concept of Hinduism, but ask them if they are ready to tag along. They will tell you please leave us alone, you go take care of your own folk.
You cannot cater to their needs, and want to include us with you. Sorry.
Come on, let’s wake up, guys. Whom are we kidding?

………………………………………

Post 17
Muthu makes an excellent point about conversion to Hinduism.
There are a number of people who have voluntarily done so. Due to the various reform movements, and the religious leaders who have toiled for it. And we have a lot to thank them for. So the next time you feel like doing arm chair criticism, and point out the frailties of a few black sheep there, spare a thought for the grass roots work most of them do.
Hinduism must welcome them into its fold. Also, Hinduism must work to see to it that it stems the tide from Hinduism, especially to Christianity, as also others. Not by anger and violence against missionaries. But by constructive programmes of its own. We know we are starting late, and have budget constraints at present. While they don’t. But start we must, and catch up by sincere, grass root level constructive work for our underprivileged. No short cuts there. Sincere hard work to attain the precious goal.
‘You can’t get something that is precious by paying a price that is inadequate.’ [I quote the great Tagore here].
We must make Hinduism an attractive religion to come back to for those who have left it; and to remain in, for those who have stayed back.
This it can do only by looking after its flock in a constructive manner.
Why do you think our own earlier Hindus who have become Christian, Muslim or Buddhist not want to come back? Don’t you think they must be harbouring some guilt for deserting the flock? Even if they do, we Hindus have given them no great reasons to come back.
We continue to sit on past glories. We continue to remain vague about our religious tenets. We continue to ignore the needs of our poor and underprivileged. We ignore reforms in our religion. And we continue to blame the whole world for our ills.
How would anyone want to come back?
Hence I appeal for constructive programmes, and reforms.
Reforms, and more reforms.
Remove the blinkers of anger. Or denial. Or resting on past laurels.
Work in the present, learning from the past, and planning for the future.
There is a lot to preserve and promote from the past, as there is a lot of dead wood to chop off.

…………………………………………………

Post 18
Yogi Harry Parasram,
Techology is a tool, health care and education are urgent needs.
There is a major difference between tools and needs, my friend.
We can use the tools to fulfil these needs, but tools cannot substitute for needs.
We have a cooking range, and a microwave. But we still have to cook, and feed.
Implements cannot substitute for action, they only help carry them out.
Think it over.

………………………………….

Post 19
Gajanan,
I liked our quote about Dr. Ambedkar, and I hold him in great esteem too. As I also hold the music of A.R. Rahman in great esteem.
If you will care to re read the original post, I have not compared Dr Ambedkar with A.R Rahman at all. My purpose was to point out that their original religion did not do anything worthwhile for them in their critical hour of need.
Babasaheb’s need for education, and A.R. Rahman’s need for health.
That trigerreed their desertion from their religion of birth.
Such exemplars cannot be just wished away. Babasaheb took away a huge number to Buddhism, and they are mostly at loggerheads with Hinduism even today. Rahman can become a potential icon for desertion from Hinduism too.
Hence I want my coreligionists to awaken at least now and see that they look after these genuine needs of their people by constructive programmes, rather than only mouthing lofty ideals and carrying out violent affirmations.
You just change the mindset, and you will see the path before you becomes very clear to follow.
……………………………………….

I think this much is enough for the day, my friends. Pardon the lengthy answers.
I do not by my answers intend to hurt anyone. It’s just that we need to think and thrash out issues, but ultimately come to some consensus and chalk out a plan of action.
Otherwise, argument for the sake of argument is a futile exercise, and I would keep away from it.

Ajai
16 Mar 2009

@Ajai R. Singh.
“Please tell me some of the …”
1. Hinduism says education should be given free in intent and teacher can accept only if the student prefers.
2. Hinduism prescribes doctors to provide medical service to poor for free, as a dharma, not as a business.
3. Hinduism promotes dhana and dharma by everyone who has wealth. It says wealth is of no use if it is just with you. This is a kind of socialism imbibed with the right balance.
4. For both rich and poor, it tells them to continue this life as result of karma thereby both rich and poor will not worry about wealth.

So if hinduism is followed properly, there won’t be a significant rich-poor divide. If hinduism is followed properly, rulers will not escape the responsibility of making sure there are no poors.

The problem is not with Hinduism, rather it is one of the solutions. We need reforms and changes in the way we live and in our attitude.

But in the current context, I do agree with your approach for preventing exodus, also because I can appreciate the intent.

@ Ajai Singh

I am sorry; my comment#13 was not directed to you. It was for those readers who were condemning Hinduism for few flaws (may be because of (personal burns). So I simply asked them; how clean linen must be washed? Till it get ripped and torn apart.

@Nanda, very well said! We are under the influence of cocktail of many religions in our Nation. If truly followed it is one of the best way of living. And again no religion is perfect.

On issue of priest in temples – Most of the time I have observed, priests does the job as a business. They study few scriptures and slokas and mantras declare them as deemed to be a priest. They need to change their attitude. This change will also bring good services to poor and needy.

Post # 20
@ Hindu atheist,
Your questions are very important. And I will take up their various ramifications alone in this post:
1. Yes, education and health are valid concerns, you say, but why drag religion into it?
2. Why mix religious conversion and getting temples back with secular issues like health and education?
3. Is it not twisted logic to compensate for theological/spiritual shortcomings by building more schools/hospitals to keep the flock intact?
I will take these up one by one.
Answering the first:
There is an important connection, my friend. Because, while health and education are secular issues, they are integrally related to religious concerns. Let me explain.
Why did Dr Ambedkar leave Hinduism? Or did Rahman?
The issues were not only personal, but intimately related to lack of education and health facilities that their own religion accorded them. Ambedkar connected it with the incorrigible caste system, and the numerous ills in Hindu society. But, if he had not been impeded in gaining quality education by his earlier coreligionists, he would hardly have left. Education and religion mixed to bring about that fate, did it not?
Similarly, Rahman had health problems with his father and his sister. What ultimately helped him was belief in a Muslim Pir, and he converted. Health and religion mixed to bring about a loss to Hinduism.
These are not just isolated examples, but how things must have been happening in many cases without our realization.
The ordinary Hindu in some far flung place has no hospital to care for him than a mission hospital, or no education than a mission school. He is skillfully goaded [and even coerced at times] to join the faith that affords him these facilities. How can he resist? What have we done for him except for fighting with the priest and mission which does it, and earning a justified bad name in the process?
Religion and health/education are subtly linked, and much as I too would want, cannot be just wished away.
Answering the second part of connection of temples and conversion with health and education.
You do not have control over your temples, so you cannot teach your followers about your religion in an organized manner. You do not have schools where you can teach your children this at an impressionable age. You do not have hospitals which have temples where the Hindus can pray for the recovery of their near and dear as they wait.
You deprive a major chunk of your population of the need to remain well versed with their religious tenets by not offering it as education, and with spiritual succour when their relatives are sick.
Hence control over temples, and having them at critical places related to education and health.
Conversions take place from Hinduism, right, left and center. Our religion has no strategy to combat it, besides angry and violent activity, or singing glories of our religion, or becoming all inclusive. Why do these conversions occur, what need of our population they fulfil, we remain blissfully blind to. This is where I realized that we, as an organized religion, with all our greatness, have nothing tangible to offer. While the others do. In education and in health.
Who must work to rectify this if not we ourselves? And how can we be involved in strong nation building if we are not fortified with quality education and good health?
Well, how can we be strong, vibrant citizens to work for any ideals? We can only be, at best, materially inclined, because that is what we see around; and ready to sway with every wind that blows, because we have no rootedness.
Religion is a potent force for desirable change, if well harnessed. And take it from me, it cannot be simply wished away, at least in India, much as those who see only its ills may want to.
Rootedness is needed. Not to become inflexible, but to remain steadfast when needed.
Positive aspects of religion offer this rootedness. Hinduism can offer it too to its followers, and then they will work better for the welfare of their country, and even for the world at large.
While I am as repulsed as you are by the many faults in religion, I am not immune to its many merits. We promote the merits, while we work to weed out the faults.
But we do not throw the baby out with the bath water.
Equally importantly, religion is a great motivator and force, if used well. As is nationalism. Religion has a great advantage in that it has a long tradition of pathfinders who have bequeathed much in the form of philosophy, ideals, beliefs and practices. [Nationalism, at least in the Indian context, has still to develop such a long tradition. Its also a task that awaits doing, but more of it later sometime.] However, it has many faults too which, when remedied, can cause great benefits.
Examples of merits: The great philosophies of the Upanishads and of all the Vedantas; of the Bhagwad Gita; as also of Patanjali Yoga and the Prakrti-Purusha of Sankhya; the karma, guna and ashrama theories and the theory of purushartha; ethical idealism of the early buddhists, dhamma and karuna, the four noble truths and eight fold path of Buddha; the pluralistic realism of the Jainas, with special emphasis on ahimsa and anekantavada; the emphasis on sacrificial living, equality and brotherhood in the teachings of Guru Nanak; and the emphasis on, as also the theories of, liberation in all the moksa-sastras are great repositories of ancient knowledge waiting for modernist interpretation. These need no longer remain esoteric concepts, profound but inscrutable. They have to be understood by the common Hindu to make a difference in his life.
Examples of demerits: But that also is not enough. We must also remedy casteism, and untouchability, so we bring about much needed goodwill amongst people, and raise their energies for nation building. And also repair the Hindu inability to unite on a common platform seeking cover of its multiplicity, as also to remain fixated in the past, which is a sign of present day bankruptcy. And indulge in violent and angry affirmations, which are well intentioned but misguided precious energies waiting to be constructively utilised .
We work on all these fronts to bring forward a well-rooted energized Hindu, educated and healthy, and proud to be a Hindu, ready to give off his best.
Who benefits when he gives off his best? Surely not India’s enemies?
In fact, what it will come to is work to energise the nation. And a strong nation has many friends, and enemies would dread crossing swords.
Want an example. See China. At one time, ruled by Japan. Huge, but divided. Then decided to go on a development plan, aided by communist ideology, and a rather ruthless reform movement. Now, anyone dare cross its path. The so-called great nations also bend over backwards to curry favour.
We have to concentrate on development too. But rather than adopt communist ideology, we can bank on our strength. Our religion, and our people.
But only if well and truly awakened. And energized.
This can happen only if we work at various levels. First, empower the ordinary Hindu with knowledge and health. Second, make him aware of his great past, but make it relevant for today. Thirdly, make him understand the value of peaceful coexistence with coreligionists. Fourthly, speak from a position of real, constructive strength. And when the other religions find Hinduism well and truly energized, they will be in a better mood to listen.
Bully none, and get bullied by none.
The stakes are high, the job immense.
But first, start at the grass roots, my friends.
Even if we visualize the beauty of the top floor, we got to start working at the foundation.
Hence the constructive programme first. It’s the strong foundation on which to make the edifice.
And TINA.
There indeed is no alternative.
Answering the third question about compensating for theological/spiritual shortcomings by building schools and hospitals, where is the compensation, my friend? If one realizes one’s fault, and wants to do something concrete to remove it, is it wrong? Why should it be twisted logic? It would be twisted logic if I were to hide our faults and bury the problem under the cover of Hinduism’s greatness, and look askance as things keep going wrong. Here we try to repair wrongs by concerted concrete constructive action. When you realise something is wrong, or awaits doing, would you blame yourself for going ahead and doing it? I find that rather difficult to digest, and more in the form of twisted logic, if you may pardon the strong word.
I think its time to reflect, but equally time to rally around and do something.
Thought, without action, is empty; just as action, without thought, is blind.
Is it not time for thoughtful action, my friends?
Just look at the four point four phase programme. It is not a product of idle speculation. The more I read it, the more I am convinced it awaits doing. Not because it originated in me. Someone has to become the nimatta karana, that’s all.
I am a psychiatrist who has written extensively, but not on religion. We run an international biomedical publication at http://www.msmonographs.org
Why should I go to such great lengths to write and communicate on this topic? There is something that awaits doing, that’s all.
Doubts. Reservations. Analysis.
None can substitute for constructive action.
Come on guys, let’s just do it.

…………………………………
To conclude, let me sum up answers to the questions raised in the beginning:
Q. 1. Education and health are valid concerns, you say, but why drag religion into it?
A.1. Because religion can be the rallying force that brings both about. And for Hinduism, it is part of its unfinished agenda, if it wakes up to realise it.
Q.2. Why mix religious conversion and getting temples back with secular issues like health and education?
A.2. Because conversions take place due to lack of both education and health facilities. And getting temples back [from govt control] helps provide a conducive place for religious grounding which is an integral part of value education for Hindus, which facility they lack in an institutionalized form from anywhere else at present. [I am not talking of temples which have been converted into mosques here. I am talking of temples where govt has intervened to exercise control due to ‘mismanagement’ etc.]
Q 3. We are only compensating for theological/spiritual shortcomings by building schools and hospitals, and to keep the flock.
A3. Not compensating, but correcting, after due realization. It’s not to assuage any collective guilt, but to carry out much needed repairs. Yes, I want very much to keep the flock from dwindling. And make them empowered. They are the backbone of my country, and have the potential to transform the world. So, join in, before the edifice becomes irreparable. And resurrect it to the glory it deserves.

I hope it is not as exhausting for you to read it as it was for me to write it.
Thanks for your patience.

Ajai
19 Mar 2009

*** NOTE by MODERATOR ***

@ Gajanan: I have moved your two comments to these two posts: here and here.

Pl. try and comment on the relevant threads…There are now close to a 800 articles on this blog so there is a strong likelihood that you will find the relevant thread in there somewhere…

You may use the “Search” box at the top (right side-bar) or the “Categories” drop-down menu (at the bottom of the right-side bar).

Thanks.

Dr. Singh,

The issues were not only personal, but intimately related to lack of education and health facilities that their own religion accorded them. Ambedkar connected it with the incorrigible caste system, and the numerous ills in Hindu society.

But, if he had not been impeded in gaining quality education by his earlier coreligionists, he would hardly have left. Education and religion mixed to bring about that fate, did it not?

Let’s for a moment assume that Ambedkar left because of incorrigible caste system and becuase he had been impeded in gaining quality education system. So, the part that religion can fix here is creating awareness about the ludicrous caste system and all the religious leaders should unanimously come out and speak about this. Once you create equality, then whatever education is available is available to every one. At the same time, improving outreach of education still remains a valid concern – independent of religion. So once you have improved the education, and you have “reformed” your religion to fix the caste system then you have automatically solved the problem. The only part where I don’t see the connection is linking the caste system with improving education outreach. Why are you blaming the religion for *not according* the education? If caste system is the root of inequality, then reform it, eradicate it, fix it!! And meanwhile, separately use secular means to improve the education system independant of religion! Why are you imposing the task of *providing education* to religion?

Similarly, Rahman had health problems with his father and his sister. What ultimately helped him was belief in a Muslim Pir, and he converted. Health and religion mixed to bring about a loss to Hinduism.

I really don’t think that Pir provided Rahman with state of the art medical solution through a “muslim hospital” to solve the health crisis (please correct me if I’m wrong). It is a matter of chance that Rahman found solace in the support of the Pir. It could very well have been another baba from another sect or even hindu baba.

The ordinary Hindu in some far flung place has no hospital to care for him than a mission hospital, or no education than a mission school. He is skillfully goaded [and even coerced at times] to join the faith that affords him these facilities.

I (and many of my relatives) was born in a mission hospital. Several of my family members and friends have received medical care in mission hospitals time and again just because they were the ones that were easily accesible and also offered good care. I also know of receiving care in a hospital named as Vivekananda hospital. I did my primary schooling in a christian convent school and high school in a brahmin controlled board. Not even one person or classmate I know from my primary school converted to christianity just becuase they were born in a mission hospital or attended a mission school. So I find it hard to link mission hospital or mission as a “massive drain the flock mechanism” as you point out. May be our experiences are different and may very well be. Just look at the people you know. Ask how many people have attended mission schools or have received medical care in mission hospitals. And then see how many “left the flock”. From what I see around, I hardly find any alarming correlation.

The people who are receiving the medical facilities care more about the medical care than about which religion is controlling the hospital. All this is talk is a just a privilge. People definitely need hospitals. They don’t care which religion is providing them. So again, I find it hard to believe that building hospitals should be the domain of religion atleast just because charities from other religion (christianity) are doing it.

Answering the third question about compensating for theological/spiritual shortcomings by building schools and hospitals, where is the compensation, my friend? If one realizes one’s fault, and wants to do something concrete to remove it, is it wrong? Why should it be twisted logic? It would be twisted logic if I were to hide our faults and bury the problem under the cover of Hinduism’s greatness, and look askance as things keep going wrong. Here we try to repair wrongs by concerted concrete constructive action. When you realise something is wrong, or awaits doing, would you blame yourself for going ahead and doing it? I find that rather difficult to digest, and more in the form of twisted logic, if you may pardon the strong word

Please don’t misunderstand me. I am not suggesting hiding faults and wishing them away. Please tell me this: Whether you build hospitals or schools, karma theory shortcoming as you put it will remain as it is. Even at that time people will leave the flock if they are not satisfied theologically or spiritually. The question I am asking is how are you compensating for this short coming in reasoning by building schools or hospitals? If you are really honest about fixing the spiritual shortcoming, then question the theory. Admit that it doesnt make sense. If you think you have a better spiritual theory, then spread your theory. Create awareness about your explanation on why karma theory doesn’t blow in the face of a poor and destitute hindu. The only part I don’t understand is how can you link shortcoming in karma theory to lack of hospitals.

I hope it is not as exhausting for you to read it as it was for me to write it.

Dr. Singh, From seeing your response to all the people who are commenting, I hear you and can feel your passion to fix this whole situation. All my disagreements may sound too academic and thats okay. Feel free to ignore my comment. I understand your desperation and sincerity in trying to provide a grassroots level mobilization to fix the whole system. Believe me, I feel the about the whole Indian society (not just Hindus) or even the entire humanity. I can feel the longing to create a better society and I am with you on all the things you point out about the hindu religion. If hindu religion has issues with caste system and equality, then lets all work towards creating equality and abolishing this system which is destroying the fabric of our society. Education and Healthcare are the needs of a broader
society. We desperately need to reform the ills of the religion.

But please allow me to respectfully disagree: If you say that people will unite and be more mobilized under a religious banner than one on nationalism, then it is problem actually for a country as diverse as India in my opinion. Religion(s) taking it upon themselves to fix education/ health-care and that too to retain flock and about the examples of Ambedkar/Rahman I remain unconvinced.

I reallly appreciate your readiness to face the situation head on and deal with it. You are honest and forthcoming about some of the problems with Indian society (not just Hindus). Like I said before, in this situation I would rather focus on where I agree with you and not nitpick about retaining the flock. If think you have a better chance of mobilizing Hindus than Indians, then let’s give it a shot. Since we really do need more hospitals and schools, let’s work together. I will disagree, but will drop the matter here.

Kaffir,
I didn’t answer your question (#30 and #20) since Dr. Singh made it clear later that Hindu hospitals are not exclusively for the care of Hindus. They are much broader for the whole society, but the management is Hindu. My comment was based on the assumption that the target audience was exclusively Hindu. Yup, you are right. You may not alienate anyone if you build a Vivekananda Hospital meant for eveyone (just like St. Martha’s hospital) and not just Hindus.

@Kaffir,

You have a very interesting alias. It reminded me of a story my father told me in my childhood. It is about a Mughal emperor and a very well known poet in his empire. I will be really grateful if some of the avid readers can help me identify the names of the characters.

So the story goes like this…

This emperor wants to call every citizen of his kingdom to his durbar and wants them to say some really good words about Islam. Anyone who dared to oppose the decision had to part with his life. There was this poor poet in his kingdom who is a great devotee of Lord Krishna.

Eventually, the poet’s turn also came one day. Everyone was asked to say.
“Kaffir hai voh, jo na maane Islam ko”..

When summoned to present himself before the Emperor, the poet politely bows and says –
“Lam ke manind hain, gesu mere Ghanshyam ke,
Kaffir hai voh, jo na mane is-Lam ko!!!”

Meaning – Lam, which is an urdu alphabet (correct me here if I am wrong), has a lovely curl, which is exactly like the tresses of my lord Ghanshyam, anyone who doesn’t believe in this Lam, is a kaffir…

So Kaffir, which is a better example of “forced inclusion”?

Thanks,

PS: I am a Hindu, with a strong belief in “Sarva-Dharma-Sama-Bhava”. Absolutely no offense to Islam meant here.

Nice story!

And one I know is-It was stormy night, one traveler takes a shelter near a small old structure of mosque. Fierce rain, and lightening shattered some portion of the wall and doors of the mosque. In the morning this news was spread and held the traveler for breaking the doors and walls of the mosque for trying to take shelter in it. He was brought before the Mogul King. He was held guilty because no one could prove how damage has been caused. But it was mosque, so very important that accused must not be left without punishment; he was given death as a punishment. Now it was time for his last wish. He asked to meet King; and he told the king that I am not going to ask for mercy but just one thing I would like to convey is; if punishment for damaging the mosque built by human is this harsh than what would be the punishment for damiging this body which is built by God can be? Have you ever thought about it? God had given this GOl GUMBAJ head, one which your mosque has, pillars like legs and supports like hands same as of your mosque. Why you want to destroy and damage this alive mosque where god really exists?

PS: “It is upto the muslim friend, if he decides to stay away, well, he may.”
********
PS, I agree. My point was when Muslims are not given a choice and are expected to participate by some well-intentioned, overzealous Hindus. Though IMO it’s still a touchy issue, because as I understand it, participation in an idol worship (puja) part of Diwali (greeting, bursting crackers and sharing food is fine) by a Muslim is shirk for that Muslim, so asking a Muslim to participate in a Diwali puja without having a discussion with him about this beforehand or without knowing his views betrays a lack of knowledge about Islam and its tenets. The gesture is well-intentioned, but may end up hurting. And it depends on the Muslim individual too.

Anyway, that’s my understanding and I’d be happy to reconsider if a Muslim can share views on this issue here.

FYI: Burger King, which runs a global chain of hamburger fast food restaurants in more than 70 countries, has apologised for running an advertisement in Spain that offended the Hindus.

‘We are apologising because it wasn’t our intent to offend anyone,’ Denise T Wilson, spokesman of Burger King told PTI in an email when asked about the demand of the Hindu community that the company need to apologise for running an advertisement which its leaders said were offensive to their religion.

‘Burger King Corporation (BKC) values and respects all of its guests as well as the communities we serve. This in-store advertisement was running to support only local promotion for three restaurants in Spain and was not intended to offend anyone,’ Wilson said.

‘Out of respect for the Hindu community, the limited-time advertisement has been removed from the restaurants,” Wilson said a day after the Hindu American Foundation in a statement asked Burger King to remove the offensive advertisement.

The Foundation, in a statement on Wednesday, said Burger King is running a print advertisement in Spain that depicts an image of the Hindu Goddess, Lakshmi, seated atop a meat sandwich, other foodstuffs with a catch phrase, ‘A snack that’s sacred’, written in Spanish.

I missed this too.

Completely agree with what Dr Singh proposes: do something positive and constructive towards Hinduism today instead of banging on about a glorious ancient past and there won’t be too many motivated to leave Hinduism for Christianity/Islam