'Knowledge about Dharma is necessary to prevent conversions'

Falgun Shuddha Ekadashi

Navi Mumbai: Presently, Christian missionaries are in full swing in their drive of converting Hindus. Hindus should be imparted knowledge about Dharma to prevent conversions; besides, an Act should be passed banning conversions. The above statement was made by Anant Shri. Vibhushit Jagatguru Ramanandacharya Shri. Swami Narendracharyaji Maharaj at Juinagar in a press conference held on the occasion of his discourse and ‘darshan’.

Jagatguru Narendra Maharaj with Shri. Shivaji Vatkar, HJS

In a function held on the occasion, 309 persons were re-admitted to Hindu Dharma. A blood donation camp was also organised. Maharaj said in his address to media persons that political parties that are inclined towards Hindu Dharma are not very firm regarding their stand on Hinduism which has lead to this situation. Hindu Dharma has no Government recognition at present; but when all Hindus come together, the Government will have no choice but to recognize and protect this Dharma. The Chief Minister is scheming to pass two anti-Hindu Acts viz. taking over management of Hindu temples and eradication of superstitions’ for wooing Christians and Muslims. Parties like BJP and Shiv Sena must oppose this ploy.

Shri. Shivaji Vatkar, Mumbai, Thane, Raigad district coordinator of Hindu Janajagruti Samiti (HJS) and Shri. Ramesh Sunil, a member of HJS personally called on Jagatguru Ramanandacharya Shri. Swami Narendracharyaji Maharaj and they apprised him on drive undertaken by HJS against M F Hussain, response received so far to number of ‘Dharmajagruti’ meetings held by HJS and classes on ‘Dharma’ started in different parts of the State. Jagatguru expressed satisfaction on the activities of HJS and also bestowed his blessings.

Question-Answers with Jagatguru :

Shri. Vatkar: Why are Hindus so prompt in agreeing for conversions ?

Jagatguru: this question was very important. It is not only case of money offered to them; but it is also lack of knowledge on Dharma. They are not proud to be Hindus and therefore, they immediately agree for conversions.

Shri. Vatkar: who was responsible for the current pathetic state of Dharma?

Jagatguru: The 4 ‘Shankaracharyas’ and 5 ‘Ramanujacharyas’ are responsible for the present state of Dharma. It is our duty to impart knowledge on Dharma and create awareness among people.

Shri. Vatkar: whether there was any ray of hope to improve the situation?

Jagatguru: I have invited all 9 Dharmagurus in February 2009 to decide upon further course of action to improve this situation.

Source: ‘Daily Sanatan Prabhat’