SarvadharmManch Bihar organised an important meeting of religious leaders at Brahma KumarisIshwariya Vishwa Vidyalayaoffice behind Civil Lines P. S., Gaya on February 18.
The meeting was graced by important religious leaders of Gaya and Patna to establish peace and tranquillity in Bihar. In a multireligious country where religion influences a lot in our society, religious leaders have a great role to play in reducing communal tensions and conflicts.
One of the five-year Interfaith initiatives of the SarvadharmManch of Bihar is the awareness drive against the menace of drinking alcohol, which is an important barrier of social development. The Manch involves religious leaders from Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism and other religions and sects to work together for the establishment of peace.
Religious misunderstandings often arise from misinformation, or lack of interaction. Interfaith dialogue allows individuals tolearn directly about others’ beliefs and practices, clarifying misconceptions. The Manch aims to
reduce conflict in Bihar by its sustained efforts.
Pandit Raja Acharya, Vishnupad Gaya, told the august gathering to contribute to the social change. He suggested to combine spiritual values with social activism. Fr. Jose K, BDVS, Patna, expressed his concern regarding the hateful incidents in our society. He told the audience that humanity is the greatest religion in the world.
Shri Trilok Singh, Chief Patron, SevadaarSamaj Kalyan Samiti Patna, was worried about the directions the country was going through.
All the religious leaders, including Bhikkhu Praggya Deep, representing Buddhism; Pradeep Jain, Gaya; B.K. Sheela representing Brahmakumari sect; Shri Bhante Uday Bodhi ji, Patna; Mahant Brijesh Muni ji, Kabir Ashram, Patna;and Prof Masroor Ahmad, President, JIH Gaya, emphasised the role of being the religiousleaders in today’s society. They could promote compassion and contribute positively to the society.
The meeting was presided over by Mahant Vijay Shankar Giri of Badi Patna Devi Mandir, Patna City.
The Coordinator of the Manch, Maulana Rizwan Ahmad Islahi, President JIH, Bihar, conducted the meeting beautifully and anticipated such meetings in all 38 districts of Bihar. He told the audience, “Each faith taught values and ways of worship but beyond all rituals and differences, there was one principle common to all i.e. Humanity. Humanity means kindness, compassion, love, respect, and service toward others.”
Mr Azmat Hussain Khan, Secretary, Interfaith Forum, Gaya, presented the vote of thanks.