‘ Land of Secular Theism’

P.S. Chauhan

The Tibetan spiritual guru, Dalai Lama, elevated the rituals and the ceremonies of the Kumbh at Haridwar to a philosophical level by bringing the message of compassion and non-violence. H.H.H. Dalai Lama was here for two days. On day one of his sojourn he was in Haridwar and the next day at Rishikesh. Tibetan spiritual guru, along with the Yoga Guru Swami Ram Dev, Swami Chidanand Muniji Maharaj, Ramesh Bhai Ojha and Morari Bapu, Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, L.K. Advani amongst other released the Encylopaedia of Hinduism. He was the chief guest in the Sparsh Ganga movement launched by the state govt. to keep the Ganga pure and clean. He spoke on these vital issues:

Relationship with India- I am a true son of India. In my young age I learnt my spiritual lessons here. Wherever I go, I carry the message of the Indian philosophy. After I took political asylum in India, my body has been fed by the Indian food, while my mind and heart have been nourished by the Indian thoughts. The relationship of India and Tibet is that of guru and chela and that also a reliable one.

Indian spiritualism: Diversity and plurality of traditions is the hallmark of India's spirituality. Nowhere in the world there are so many diverse traditions co-existing with mutual respect. India has exemplified "secular theism". Even the non-believers, like Charvak, have been given here due recognition and respect. It is this liberality and respect for dissent which is the bedrock of the Indian democracy also. India's basic thought of tolerance and non-violence is most relevant in the contemporary society. The twentieth century has been a century of conflicts and violence, claiming millions of lives. The present century is to be one of peace and harmony, of resolution of conflicts and India's philosophy can be a beacon light to the entire humanity today.

Ganga: It is a special river. It is the centre of faith of the tens of millions of people. It is the duty of all of us to protect its purity and sanctity.

His message: Maintain calm and peace of mind. Hatred and anger ruffle the peace of mind, while faith and meditation help in acquiring the coveted state of mind which gives clear vision and elevates life.