The Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations Forum should be commended for its efforts to bring together Hindus and encourage them to follow the tenets of Hinduism for a better morrow. The Forum’s emphasis on the development of the Hindu youth as a positive power of influence for future betterment also deserves recognition and support.
The Forum has the potential to become a significant vehicle to carry Hindu values, traditions and beliefs, provided it channels its energy into positive areas of contribution, and not dissipate its energy in fighting unwarranted causes.
The bane of most Hindu organisations is that they are wrought by internal strife, which develops itself into personality cults, leading to discard and despair. While Hindu leaders and elders in this country have done yeomen services to the community in particular and the society in general, they have failed to forge the kind of unity and solidarity that is required of them, save on a rare occasion or two and at national and international conferences.
Hinduism is often described as A Way of Life, even transcending barriers of religion and faith. For thousands of years, sages, philosophers and men and women of erudition have prescribed Hinduism as the panacea for all ills of humanity and as the path to salvation. There is something more into this religion (or way of life) that inexplicably links the human deed with the human soul.
While we congratulate the Hindu Forum that has taken upon itself the task of teaching the principles of Hinduism, we would urge them to practice what they preach within the confines of their own organisations. For, the strength of one’s own conviction always empowers a cause or a philosophy. In order to influence the youth to lead a more righteous life, preachers must also be followers.
It is always better to lead than to direct.
The Forum has lofty ideals that could benefit not just the Hindu community but also all New Zealanders. Its idea of introducing Yoga, Ayurveda and Mediation as practices for the mainstream New Zealand society could perhaps remove social ailments and make us all lead improved quality of life.
It must be understood that Hinduism gave India an important avenue for tolerance. As a religion with countless Gods and sacred texts, it does not lend itself to extremism; and there are no rules for governments to enforce.
There is a need for Hindus to realise their rightful place in the society and promote ideals of universal fraternity, spirit of service and acceptance of all faiths as acts of God. They should also have the grace to accept into its fold even those who do not believe in the existence of God.
That in essence is the essence of Vishwa Kutumbam or One World Family.
