The dreaded “H-word”
When I was asked to write this article for Hindu Voice, I struggled to think of how I could start it off. So I’ll start with a conversation I had a couple of years ago while on holiday in California. While there, I went to a charity cultural show type thing organised by the local Hindu community and after the main event there was a dinner and a collection of stalls for various organisations to showcase their work…
February 26th, 2007 at 8:46 am
Brilliant and incisive article– Very true and it hit the issues on dot–
Thanks for the same
A proud Hindu
February 26th, 2007 at 10:02 am
Come to Indonesia…We Hindus proudly reveal our identity in front of 200 millions of Moslem which populated the country…During the president election in 1999, an Indonesian Moslem by the name of A.M. Saefudin who was the minister of Food and Argiculture at that time insulted the Indonesian Hindus saying that the country should not be govern by a Hindu seeing one of the candidates, Mrs. Megawati spoted by the cameras praying in a Sanggah ( Indonesian Hindu family temple ) at Bali. Megawati herself is a Molsem but has great respect of her Hindu ancestors. The Indonesian Hindus were in rage hearing his statement that they would never accept any apologies from the minister. The Hindus started rallying and demonstrating everywhere especially in Bali. They made a puppet look-a-like of the minister, carrying it all around town, beating it, kicking it, and finally torched it to the ground while at he same time yelling at him to step off the cabinet. The Hindus even threat to seperate from Indonesia and becoming a free state. The Hindus of Bali finally come to their senses that their action would harm their Hindu brothers and sisters who are living outside the island and ended the demonstratring. Unfortunately the foolish no good minister was never on trial until today, and the for the 11 million Hindus of Indonesia…Well we still love our country…Indonesia…. and our religion…..Hindu.
February 26th, 2007 at 4:05 pm
Fantastic article, congratulations on it Anish! One of Hindu Voice’s best articles yet!
Be a worthwhile exercise for readers to examine the undertones & symbolisms used by the BBC, CNN and the Economist magazine when they commentate on India. It will be revealing.
I’ve found that most english language indian publications are no better either (taking a leaf out of their colonial masters books?!).The exception I have found is the daily pioneer. Any others indian publications which readers would recommend?
February 26th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
There is one, and only one, global magazine which for three decades has promulgated the “H” word with pride, brilliant writing and authenticity, free of sectarian bias in the bargain.
It is Hinduism Today, published from, of all places, a Hindu monastery in Hawaii. Its powerful imagery, pride of dharma and profound understanding of the place of our faith in the world are an antidote to the craven “I am not a Hindu” tendencies boldly discussed in the article…
www.hinduismtoday.com
February 27th, 2007 at 8:12 am
I have spent many a night pondering this same issue. WHile our Chrisitan and Muslim brothers and sisters proudly proclaim their religion why do Hindus shy away from it.
We need to create a paradigm shift in our Hindu brothers and sisters with regards the dreaded H word, without any for of propegation.
February 27th, 2007 at 3:00 pm
I applaud the writer of the original article in highlighting this weakness among Hindus. If we continue as we have done in the past,by denying our Hindu religion and values, then our great religion will disappear before long; already the Hindu religion is under threat from western culture and from other religions who are employing well educated people and vast amounts of money to convert Hindus to their religions.
We Hindus must wake up to the threat that is facing our existence and employ sophisticated methods to inform , educate and inspire ,not only the millions who are born as Hindus, but also people of other faiths .
We are our worst enemies - not only do many deny that they are Hindus but they often criticize the religion without a proper understanding of it.
It is time for all Hindus to understand their religion ,practice it , inform and educate non-Hindus and stand up for our religion whenever and wherever it is threatened. Hari OM!
February 28th, 2007 at 4:05 am
An excellent article, and I will be sending the links to all I know so that they can learn to be confident and open about their roots! Everything mentioned is just pefect.
February 28th, 2007 at 7:42 am
Namaskar, I was very happy to read this article as have thought the same for years. I have also used the phrase the “H” proudly word for years and I don’t even qualify as Hindu in some circles. I come from a Hindu/Buddhist background as a westerner who is drawn to both religions. Some say people like us must have had past lifetimes in Nepal! Anyway, in Buddhism they do not hesitate to use the word Buddhist at every opportunity. But how about all the “Indian teachers” who do seem to teach a form of Hinduism but would never use the H word? And the rise of hatha yoga and its popularity always in the Buddhist popular magazines never linked to the H word! The funniest to me is to see the Buddhist/Christian dialogues which seem quite popular in the west but never any Buddhist/Hindu dialogues. I love Buddhism but Buddhists do not like to be reminded that Hindustan swallowed up the Buddhist teachings along with the others.
Then what about some contemporary Hindu teachers such as Ammachi (not as Hindu) and Karunamayi (very Hindu) who still do not use the H word and who like to say they are not teaching religion at all!
I think there are some Hindu teachers who are quite narrowminded so not saying that any religion is perfect but I really do not like to see what I can only call a sort of snobbery of the Buddhist and western yoga set towards the H word.
February 28th, 2007 at 7:52 am
Namaskar,
You should be happy many of these people do not cite their Hindu roots.
Deepak Chopra, for instance, not only stands as a very poor example of what a Hindu should be (also known as Deep Pockets), but he perverts the teachings to a criminal extent. In some life it will catch up with him.
Many gurus come to America to make money and take advantage of needy ignorant people and unfortunately break the hearts of the tender hearted deeply devoted seekers. Idon’t think you would like to claim them as your own…or would you?
Instead of being bitter and nationalistic you need to be more Hindu–as the Gita says “remain unfazed despite praise or blame.”
What one good thing has come about for standing up for a religion? I do know alot of bad things- arrogance, closed mindedness and war. People become like blind sacred bulls fighting each other for no reason. It is like the partition of India which has helped no one as Gandhi predicted.
What should you stand up for???? How about knowing that the God that is in you is in all? Isn’t that the central tenent of Hinduism? Or perhaps practicing lovingkindness, compassion and joy and being neutral in the face or happiness (sucha and dukka) and virtue and non-virtue to remove the blocks to Kaivalyam (God-realization) Patanjali 1:33
Or How about “This person sees himself in the heart of all beings and he sees all beings in his heart. When this person sees Me in all and he sees all in Me , then I never leave him and he never leaves Me. He who in this oneness of love, loves Me in whatever he sees, where ever this man may live in truth he lives in Me” Bhagavad-Gita.
or how about this one “And when the man sees the God that is in himself is the same God in all that is, he hurts not himself by hurting others; then he goes indeed to the highest path. Bhagavad Gita 13:28
Or how about removing the labels that divide us from each other?
Jan
February 28th, 2007 at 9:13 am
“I love Buddhism but Buddhists do not like to be reminded that Hindustan swallowed up the Buddhist teachings along with the others”
Eileen, ask yourself where fundamental buddhist concepts came from - where there not already present in Sanatan Dharma before the advent of Buddh-”ism”. What was the Budhas lineage? which philosophies was he surrounded by? What essentail buddhist teaching/philospohies cannot be found in Sanatan Dharma, I’d be interested to know ?
Presently, with the knowledge I currently have, am of the opinion that Buddhism concentartes on certain aspects of sanatan philosophy and practice (raja yoga in particular)
February 28th, 2007 at 9:19 am
The West has a profound and unacknowledged need to put Hinduism down. For if it were to acknowledge Hinduism’s all -embracing hugeness and timelessness, it might then have to apologise for the centuries of colonialism in India. Public apology for historical momentous events is a modern trend - for example, the European holocaust, or the slave trade in Africa.
We in the West have a great capacity for denial in the case of Hindu India. It was conquered with great violence and colonised for England’s prosperity, and the effects of this divisive impoverishment and dismantling of Hinduism as its guiding force, are still felt to this day. So we Westerners have a need to place the material problems of India at the feet of some endemic problem of that vast country, rather than at our exploitation of its people and resources throughout centuries. We need to say: ‘Ah yes, India’s problems are the result of caste divisions, … um … or the effect of indolence brought about by the passivity of Hinduism.’ Very useful. And this attitude enables and empowers fervent evangelisers to impose their intolerantly superior views on some very vulnerable people, aided and abetted by those Indian politicians who deny the majority religion of their land for the purpose of political correctness.
Meanwhile Hinduism’s Yoga is being patented in the West, along with India’s traditional healing Ayurvedic wisdom, by Western corporate interests, large and small. And the secular practisers of Yoga vehemently deny the roots of their practices. ‘Yoga is non-religious, and a useful tool for stress-management’, they protest, ignoring the inconvenient fact that Yoga must have come from somewhere. (Otherwise it would probably be banned in Western schools, thus closing the door on a good market). Meanwhile, the historical fact of Yoga as a gateway to spiritual peace and Self-Realisation, as evidenced in aged and profoundly wise Hindu scriptures, is hushed up with embarrassment such as only the Western mind could conceive.
February 28th, 2007 at 10:38 am
“What one good thing has come about for standing up for a religion?”
hmm, I don’t know, well for one when Shivaji stood up for us it stopped our persecution and gave us our honor back, we could hold our heads high in our own country when the Marathas planted the saffron flag at Attock in 1757.
If he instead chanted about ahimsa and peace there would be no Hinduism left except in your local musuem, I am not the only one saying it, his contemporary and the great Hindi poet Kaviraj Bhushan said “Kasihki Kala Gayee, Mathura Masid Bhaee; Gar Shivaji Na Hoto, To Sunati Hot Sabaki!” [Kashi has lost its splendour, Mathura has become a mosque; If Shivaji had not been, All would have been circumcised (converted)].
Jai Shivaji, Jai Bhavani.
February 28th, 2007 at 10:59 am
Fantastic article! Its so annoying to see that Hindus dont want to be called Hindus, it really frustrates me.
I was looking at the latest zee magazine that got sent to my home, in there, theres an advert for wait for it… ‘Islamic Yoga’. A brilliant example of an oxymoron.
Hindu Jage, Vishwa Jage!
Best Regards,
Jatin
February 28th, 2007 at 1:55 pm
well i very well written article.what is Hindusism the hindus them self have forgotten,we have a lot of rituals and symbls but the deeper meaning and reason has been lost and it all seems like old wives tale passed on which we are ashamed to acknowledge.We have forgotten HINDUSUM comes from the heart and every thing is sacred.I feel learning the english language has a lot to do with it as we talk and think in English we tune into the thinking energy somwhat ashamed of what all has sliped into hinduisim the caste .how we treatthe femals in human form diffrent from the femal godess etc and that part of our shame spills over to us identifying with the religion.plus every thing repackaged from the west is oh so more hip follow the tarot the runes the fashion where is hinduisism with the glitter?
February 28th, 2007 at 3:51 pm
Anish,
Well documented article and a very factual and insightful analysis on how modern spirituality movement is distancing itself from Hinduism. In a world driven by brand identity (where its Microsoft or Walmart or Iyengar Yoga) it is absolutely important to stand up for Hinduism and represent it genuinely in all our endeavors. Its high time we hindus realize the intrinsic values of our eternal tradition and nurture it. There is a need in todays world to market the “Hindu” brand and we should not restrain from doing so. Otherwise as Anish says in the article, the “Hindu” brand will keep eroding and loosing out to other traditions.
A proud hindu
February 28th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
You have stated this in a brilliant way.
There are several different groups in particular>>>>
We “Hindus” have sold our souls to all who wants to listen to for financial rewards anywhere we live. Deepak Chopra for example thinks he is American and he has to cater foreigners [to make a dollar] by not mentioning anything “Hindu” in all his publications. Most of us “Hindus” are no better than prostitutes who would do anything for financial gains. So called business approach.
All these so called independent sects are established as their own businesses and they could careless if they are called Hindus. None of these people have any sense of self pride. They [the leaders of these groups] have sold their souls for comfortable living and earrings they receive by setting up their groups. It would be interesting to know if any of these leaders are realized souls.
What can we do? We have to do something. A universal movement has to be called upon to gather together all Hindus and try to make a difference.
February 28th, 2007 at 6:16 pm
I wish to say the ‘Hindu’-'Indian looking person , YOU MET AT THE HINDU FUNCTION along his two American white ‘Hindu’-look-a-like’ men , is a good example of hypocrits who are engaged in MONEY MAKING from our Great Hindu Culture, tradition and teachings but wants to ‘rename the art of Yoga to suit his clientelle ; this same situation applies to all those groups, who are marketing ‘Yoga’ as behing a ‘Christian Yoga’ or ‘Universal Yoga’ or what ever other name they wish to give the Science of Yoga.
Yes , the word ‘Hindu’ is a made-up word as we all know ..; yes ours is not a so called ‘Religion’ - because ‘Religions’ had a founder and prophets . Ours .. the Sanatan Dharma , i.e. Our Way of Life, is an Eternal way of life, and also it is the ‘Univeral way of live..Universal Dharma.. ; Therefore that peson who DOES agree that he was engaged in the teaching of a ‘Univeral/Hindu’ science ..Whether he utters the word ‘Hindu’ from his own mouth or refers to Hinduism as ‘ Universal’ .. the fact does not change… - I feel sad and sorry for the weaknesses of faith in such people. No one can Challenge or Deny that Sanatan Dharma ‘Hinduisim’ is man kind’s oldest known scriptiure -
February 28th, 2007 at 6:20 pm
The Author has to be praised for calling a spade a spade. Everybody trying to be popular with west and professing to be secular tries to avoid everything which is basically ‘Hindu” and nothing else. Let those pretenders get some wisdom from this well thought out and published article. May his tribe increase.
regards.
February 28th, 2007 at 10:38 pm
Namah Sivaya,
If you study the plight of the African American in US from slavery to the present you will see it mirror the Hindu/Indian plight to a great degree. The same enslavement and attempt to divide and conquer occurred. What better way to destroy any group ; let them fight each other. Tell one he is superior to the other (light complexion vs dark, caste, etc), apply a little reward and they will be their own poison. Demonized, belittle, or ban any religious unifying principle…make them hate themselves and your work is done. You have infected your target with a disease that will wreck havoc for countless generations.
Since skin color cannot be changed, for the most part, there was no other way but to fight, for the African-American. But religion, that can be hidden, denied, changed….sad.
I am a non-Indian Hindu (for some this is an oxymoron). For me, this is akin to being right-handed…it just IS. Acceptance is neither sought or needed. I pass on the teachings of Sanatan Dharma at every opportunity to anyone willing to listen. I seek no converts only to educate the ignorant.
The article was great, but, will it stimulate any action. Only education of the masses about the culture and the religion will bring change….look at the way Moslems, Christians, Jews teach their young people. Do we have any such thing? Can we teach what we, really, don’t know?
If we are ashamed to be Hindu and cannot or choose not to defend it what can we expect from others. We will see more rape and pillage as it is torn apart and repackaged to suit the whims of the West, commercial ventures and profit. In the end you will have Hinduism religated to a museum in the West, the Hindu scholars will be Westerners and the practitioners will be Westerners. EDUCATION IS THE ONLY WAY
March 1st, 2007 at 7:01 am
Thus is the situation in Kali Yuga. Nevertheless Dharma prevails.
Anything that has been aggressively promoted eventually dies off e.g Christianity in Europe, Australia and Canada is practised by less than 5% of the population. It took 1500 years to grow, peak and reach its’ near demise. Therefore the acts of labelling anything Hindu as bad, negative, etc is an act of desperation by parties that feel threatened.
Am I worried? Yes, but I also believe in Dharma. As mentioned by Anish, all sister civilizations eventually died - Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greek, Confucian China. Then naturally, Hindu civilization will be a target. Hinduism is not called ‘Sanathana Dharma’ for nothing.
Om Shanti
Thanneermalai
March 1st, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Hello,
As you can see from my name, my background is British, although I was born in Canada. Its funny, but two days ago I was eating dinner with my wife in a Hyatt Regency hotel in Irvine, California. We had a very nice young Indian gentleman (doing his internship in hotel management) serving us our host. He was recently from Mumbai and I noted that his first name was definitely Indian, but that his last name was Portuguese. Right away I could guess that his family was from Goa and most probably Catholic. Anyway, I asked him, ‘Are you Hindu?’ As I expected, he said that he was Catholic. I responded, ‘I kind of though so, given your last name.’ Then I added, ‘Well it’s funny, but I was born in Canada and my background is British, AND I am a Hindu!’. He looked at me in absolute disbelief…I don’t think he had considered that such a thing was remotely possible. Strange, given that his ancestors were probably Hindu, and probably forceably converted to Catholicism by the Portugeuse. So, I let him struggle with his amazement for a few seconds, then I said, ‘Well, I haven’t actually signed any official document proclaiming myself a Hindu, but I have spent time at the ashram of Ramana Maharshi and consider Him my guiding light. Also, I chant puja and mantras. I practise yogic meditation, asanas and pranayama and also teach these things. I have written and published a book which contains a full chapter on yoga and Indian spirituality. In the book, I make it clear that yoga is integral to Hinduism and arises from this ancient and noble Vedic ‘religion’. Finally,I have studied the Gita, the Upanishads and many other sacred texts, and worship each day in front of a picture of Shiva. So, while I am not ‘formally’ a Hindu, in practise, I am. So, I am a Hindu by personal proclamation. It is my path.’
I’m sure he is still thinking about this!
Duart Maclean
March 1st, 2007 at 9:21 pm
THANK YOU! YOU HAVE SPOKEN THAT WHICH IS IN THE HEARTS OF MILLIONS OF HINDUS! Despite all the negativity out there reading this kind of insightful article confirms the positive future for Hindu Dharma.
March 1st, 2007 at 9:59 pm
Duart Maclean kudos to you for not being hesitant to say that you are Hindu when even so many Indian Hindus try to hide it under some vague intellectual arguements such as “well i am not really religious but spiritual” or “yes i am hindu kind of but i am open minded and appreciate all religions” or other such nonsense.
March 1st, 2007 at 10:19 pm
Namaskaram,
For many years I have been a Vaisnavite having come in contact with Hinduism through ISKCON in the 70’s. I have always preached to ISKCON members that they should acknowledge that they are Hindus. Vaisnavas are one of the main divisions of Hindus. Just as I tell people that I am a Hindu, similarly I also tell them that I am a Vaisnava. I think that the problem is that the western news media in particular mostly portrays some of the more extreme Hindu beliefs and practices, like self mortification by worshipers of Murgan or worship of hordes of live rats by Ganesha Bhaktas. Castism and Sati and similar traditions that seem to dis-empower specific groups or genders also rubs western sensibilities the wrong way. However if you look at the history, beliefs and practices of any of the major religious traditions in the world you can find strange things that mainstream followers would not agree with. Unfortunately the world is US centric and the world media more and more portrays life in terms of US cultural standards.
March 2nd, 2007 at 3:52 am
Thank you for an excellent assessment of the anti-Hindu sentiment of yoga practitioners and teachers. I am a western convert to Hinduism and my yoga studio here in Berkeley, California, USA is one of only two studios in the country that is an actual consecrated Hindu temple (Nataraja) as well. We offer authentic Hatha Yoga from the Natha tradition, meditation, puja, yajna, sanskrit, Ayurveda etc. and have the only Brahmin priest training center in the United States.
I’m hoping that Hindus will read your article, these comments, and come to our temple and yoga studio to expeerience the real tradition. All are welcome.
One intersting comment I have is that I have taught many young Indian people living here in the states and I find it very disconcerting that “I” am teaching them their native traditions. Eventually I often end up teaching the parents as well. My point: PLEASE, HINDUS THE WORLD-OVER, TEACH YOUR CHILDREN TO BE GOOD HINDUS OR GET THEM TO THE ACARYAS WHO CAN. DON’T LOSE IT, DON’T BE ASHAMED OF THE WORLD’S LONGEST LIVING SPIRITUAL TRADITION OF WISDOM, LOVE AND COMPASSION.
Thank you,
Dharmanidhi Sarasvati Acarya
Spiritual Director
Yoga Mandala & Trika Institute
Berkeley, California, USA
March 2nd, 2007 at 10:27 am
Rightly written, it is time to think on this. WHich makes them to hide the word ‘H’? I believe the too much liberty given in Hinduizm religion is the weakness at the same time this is the strength also.
I just listed the Hindu Organization in a city, i noticed around 50+, each has their own establishment and followers but i doubt any contact inbetween. Is it not necessary? it is time to think and act. Thanks for the thoughts.
March 2nd, 2007 at 12:54 pm
It’s good to see this article stirring up positive emotions about the ‘dreaded’ H word syndrome.And even better its great to see that Hindus from all regions, countries ,genders and races all standing up for the Hindu idenitity.I think we should all send this article to as many ‘hindu’ teachers, gurus, yoga teachers and the thousands of others around the world who suffer from the dreaded H word syndrome. Jai Hindu Dharma !
March 3rd, 2007 at 6:17 am
Excellent!
Your article is too good for words.
It will be good if you can forward this to all the Hndu Gurus, Yoga teachers including Dr.Dipak Chopra .
I feel that many of these Hindu masters are doing a great disservice to Hinduism by denying their Hindu roots.
March 4th, 2007 at 7:35 am
Namaste,
The article is excellent, but I think there is room for another view. I believe that Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism) is different from all (or most?) other religions in that it is not sectarian. It is Universal, and all those masters who came to the West to teach us Yoga and the sublime spirituality of India probably saw fit to focus on this aspect of it (especially in those times, decades ago, when Yoga and Indian spirituality were largely unknown in the West) to avoid distrust and misunderstanding–from people who may feel their religious allegiances threatened. And especially from the ministers of their religions (yes, Anish, you have answered yourself when you said that the Catholic church recognized Yoga as Hindu in origin–therefore “Pagan” and tried to discourage its followers from practicing it). Remember, other religions are not only sectarian, but intolerant.
I was taught Yoga long ago, by a great Indian guru, and I remember him saying to people, “You don’t have to change your religion in order to practice Yoga; in fact, Yoga will help you to realize your own religion.” (more or less these words). However, this didn’t deny the Hindu origin of Yoga; as a matter of fact, his teachings of Indian philosophy, the Gita, the Upanishads, the mantras, etc., made us fall in love with Indian spirituality and culture–and with India. I believe that this, in turn, was of great benefit to India, because the Western validation and enthusiasm for all this helped Indians to re-evaluate the treasure they have the honor to inherit–and the great merit of having preserved for posterity, in spite of immense difficulties, like invasions, etc. On the other hand, many Westerners went to India not only to learn, but to help in many ways. In a way, those pioneer Yoga masters who came to the West were the best ambassadors of India in all times.
So, the matter is, then, Are they denying the Hindu roots of Yoga? I don’t believe so, even though there may be many who do, or shy away from it. However, I believe that the appealing of Hinduism to discerning non-Hindus will keep more alive if Hinduism is kept as tolerant and non-sectarian as it has always been–avoiding the modern trends (Western-inspired) to make of it an entrenched, beligerant religion like its Western counterparts. It will also ensure its survival, when most other religions are losing adherents.
I also want to note here that I’ve met many Indians in the past, and I’m proud of having many Indian friends, and they have never denied their Hindu identity. I have been honored to even participate in their family celebrations, and religious gatherings, etc. And I can also say that the highest spiritual and ethical principles I have learned, aside from my parents’, come from Yoga and my guru, and from my Indian friends who shared with me pearls of their rich culture. Can we call that Hinduism? Yes, of course, but it has the added virtue of being universal, valid for everybody. Those great seers of ancient times gave their teachings without restrictions or sectarianism, and I am sure that if Christ was alive today, he would acknowledge and honor those teachings as his–to the surprise of many of those who label themselves as “Christians.”
Roberto
March 4th, 2007 at 5:43 pm
The real reason is that we are not accepted as Hindus; too many Hindus believe that you must be “born Hindu.” Therefore, all kinds of westerners following Hindu-based paths and even adopting Sanskrit names, living in Hindu ashrams such as Mata Amritanandamayi’s cannot call themselves “Hindu,” as we might like to.
I was told point blank by the president of the Vishwa Hindu Mahasangha that I could not be Hindu, no way. Fine. There’s you answer. We are not ashamed of you, you are ashamed of us!
March 4th, 2007 at 8:58 pm
“We are not ashamed of you, you are ashamed of us! ”
Sirensongs,
Not all of us “Born” Hindus are ashamed of you or any other human being who has become a Hindu but we’re more ashamed of morons like this President of the Vishwa Hindu Mahasangha who is talking s**t. If anyone else has also experinced the same stupidity then please email Hindu Voice because we would like to expose such idiots. And for the record we welcome you to our site and fully recognise you as a Hindu if you do.
Thanks,
–Hindu Voice UK
March 4th, 2007 at 8:59 pm
Ya right, there are plenty of Hindu organizations that accept converts and call them Hindu, the magazine Hinduism Today itself is run by a lot of “white” sadhus, people have different viewpoints, the late Paramacharya of Kanchi was very orthodox and would not recognise outsiders as Hindu, but that didn’t stop people from calling themselves Hindu, Ishwar Sharan (Swami Devananda) was one such person, in his own words:
“The Kanchi Pariaval has devoted his life to salvaging what little is left of Vedic Brahminical orthodoxy, which is, need I tell you, concerned with externals, with rites and rituals, with birth and caste (he will not give me prasada because I am neither a brahmin nor orthodox). Yet he is a brahmarshi, a living national spiritual treasure whose wisdom and compassion are universally recognised.
http://voiceofdharma.org/books/ca/ch13.htm#8 ”
Yet Ishwar Sharan calls himself Hindu and is recognised as one by many people, faith does not depend on whether others accept you or not, no one stops you from calling yourself Hindu Duart Maclean did.
March 5th, 2007 at 7:27 am
“We are not ashamed of you, you are ashamed of us! ”
SirenSongs, Just because you met a few jokers talking nonsense doesn’t mean all ‘born’ Hindu think the same.I have friends who are white Hindus and they’ve never been told they had to be born a Hindu to be a Hindu.If this Vishwa Hindu Mahasangha president is talking this rubbish then I can bet he doesn’t even know what Hinduism is like many born Hindus running Hindu temples or Hindu organisations which is well known among us Hindus.He’s probably more of a born idiot then a born Hindu.
March 5th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
Thanks to all who have replied. But it is not for us “newcomer” Hindus to take up the issue with the old fogies who are running the temples. It would be great if there was a movement from within “traditional” Hinduism to accept committed foreign Hindus into such places and events. This story is an example: http://www.indiaenews.com/religion/20070302/41701.htm
–one of many. Foreign women who have married Hindu men in Hindu marriages, are practicing Hinduism and have taken Sanskrit names cannot even go into Padmanabhaswamy, Guruvayoor, Puri, Pashupati, and so on - let alone those who are not so directly “affiliated.”
It doesn’t make them proud to be Hindu, or make them want to call themselves Hindu. This just happened to my friend Jennifer (Jayanthi) a few months ago.
March 5th, 2007 at 5:05 pm
sirensongs,
Things are changing and a movement is starting but we need more western Hindus to come out and say they’re Hindus because it will help ‘born’ Hindus like us to push forward this issue even more further into the open.Why dont you write us a article about the whole issue and the problems Western Hindus face from confused Hindus and we’ll publish it so other Hindus can at least know about what’s going on.
Balraj HV team
March 5th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
Why are you bothered about what a few others think, I doubt an orthodox Brahmin in India like the Paramacharya would accept me if he thinks i was impure, i am not bothered by what he thinks, infact I respect him for saving whatever orthodoxy is left, there are plenty of other Hindu groups that accept converts like the Chinmaya mission, the Arya Samaj and others, why not go there, in the same way the majority of Hindu mandirs will let in people irrespective of race as long as you show them some paper proving that you are a Hindu (this thing is only done in the most important temples), even Tirupathi let’s you in even if you are a non Hindu as long as you sign a declaration that you have faith in Lord Venkateshwara, a few mandirs don’t, like the Puri one and the one at Guruvayoor, so why insist on going in where you are not welcome, I don’t go into places where I am not welcome.
March 5th, 2007 at 7:35 pm
Harish - why do you respect him for ’saving whatever orthodoxy is left’ when orthodoxy is associated with such stupidity such as u know what:
http://www.hinduvoice.co.uk/Issues/12/Dalits.htm
BTW, I agree with your overall point that who gives a f**k about what anybody else says… I am what I am… It’s my heritage and my path, they have no custody over it.
March 5th, 2007 at 10:09 pm
This was an excellent essay, & the discussion following has offered very inspired thoughts.
I am a former Christian who began a love affair with Hindu Dharma when I was 15. I took formal diksha @ 33. Believe me, I’ve had several debates with a number of people ( Western yogis, vedantists & bhaktas) who refuse the H label. But I proclaim affiliation to Hinduism proudly.
For 10 years now I have taught Hatha Yoga @ a local college. While I would never say that one must embrace Sanantana Dharma to perform asanas, I am very clear that this system of posture, meditation & moral code is a part of a religious tradition; & that tradition is Hinduism. The school is very encouraging of my method.
Several others have voiced thoughts that I was planning on sharing, but since they are already posted I will not be redundant. Suffice to say, I agree with those who wish to share this universal message of Namaste with those of every faith, but insist we must honor the source of this nectar.
As far as Indians go, I’ve never been told that I am not a Hindu. 2 years ago I toured the Northeast states of India on behalf of Vivekananda Kendra, lecturing in 30 towns, cities & villages in opposition of forceful conversion. I was welcomed with open arms as a Hindu. I’m sure there are
a number of the unenlightened (as mentioned in previous notes) who still hold to the ludicrous notion that Hindus only come already made, but I can only guess that they are in the minority.
March 6th, 2007 at 4:20 am
“Harish - why do you respect him for ’saving whatever orthodoxy is left’ when orthodoxy is associated with such stupidity such as u know what”
Firstly, it is because of Orthodoxy that the fragile tradition of Vaidika’s is still standing, it is primarly because they have not given up chanting Vedas that the tradition is still alive, most Vaidika Brahmins are in utter poverty and their families know that their sons will end up like them too but it is because they believe that is their swadharma that they send their kids there, talk is easy, how many of us would send our kids into such a profession knowing the pittance they will make?
Infact many of these families are even worse off than the lowest of castes, here is a translation of an article that appeared in the Telugu daily Vaartha:
“Seventy percent of Brahmins are relying on their hereditary vocation. There are hundreds of families that are surviving on just Rs. 500 per month as priests in various temples.
http://www.vepachedu.org/brahmana-tribe.html ”
This is from an old survey:
“In this connection it would be revealing to quote the per capita income of various communities as stated by the Karnataka Finance Minister in the State Assembly on July 1, 1978: Christian Rs.1562, Vokkaligas Rs.914, Muslims Rs.794, Scheduled caste Rs.680, Scheduled Tribes Rs.577 and Brahmins Rs.537.
http://www.geocities.com/ifihhome/articles/mj002.html ”
They are in that state because while the rest of the society (including a majority of Brahmins) decided to go with the times and forget their dharma, these people took the hard way because they felt that a Brahmin should not abandon religious roles and take to secular professions.
March 6th, 2007 at 4:34 am
Nextly untouchability has less to do with the orthodox and everything to do with who own’s the land, a Jatt in Punjab does not get his impetus to mistreat Harijan’s because the Kanchi Paraival said so in far off Tamilnadu, infact no one bothers to listen to him in Tamilnadu itself, no one reads the Manu Smriti before he starts mistreating others, you and I may not agree with their practices but to blame the whole problem of untouchability on orthodoxy is nonsense, infact the same Jatt who probably beat up a Harijan in the morning for daring to draw water from the village well will go get smashed on Daroo at night (alcohol drinking is certainly not recommended by the orthodoxy).
Haryana and several other North Indian states for example have some of the highest rates of atrocities against SC’s but they also have female infanticide that has sky rocketed, now if the Hindus who are doing these caste crimes are Orthodox then why are the same people killing their female foetus (abortion or killing of a foetus whether it’s male or female is regarded as one of the deadly sins in several dharmashastras), the Paramacharya would have never approved of such a practice being the non progressive orthodox backward looking reactionary he was.
It may also interest you to know that Daniel Ilayaraja the legendary South Indian music composer was a devotee of the Kanchi Paraival and still is a follower of the Math despite being considered as from the Harijan community.
March 6th, 2007 at 8:50 am
Dear Sirensongs,
I read the interesting article you provided the link to, and I think you have an answer, so to speak, in the fact that even Indira Gandhi (and the crown princess of Thailand) was denied entry at that temple. It means the rejection is not directed at foreigners per se, but at keeping their religion and traditions from being diluted in the exchange.
Even though we all agree on, and are touched by the unpleasant fact of rejection of foreigners, non-Hindus etc. at certain temples, I would tend to think this is a phenomenon of a world in transition. Certain places refuse globalization. I wouldn’t condemn them, they may have strong reasons for that. Instead, I would go to other temples–there are thousands of them!–And, we cannot pretend to embrace somebody’s religion and then try to change it to our ways.
As for the throwing away of the food, I believe we have to know the facts, or rationale behind that, then try to understand them. I know that in some ashrams and temples only certain persons, qualified for their spiritual disposition, are allowed to cook the meals to be offered to the deities. Then, as blessed food, it is given to the people attending. I heard a story from a lady who was decades ago in ashrams in India, that if somebody not belonging to the kitchen enters while they are cooking, they throw all the food to the garbage, and start clean all over again.
Those dedicated women cooks supposedly keep clean even their minds when cooking for the gods. Could it be that somebody unsuspecting, casually entering the kitchen, with worldly thoughts in their minds, would break their spiritual concentration? Who knows?
From my own experience (in two opportunities) at the Vraj temple, I can tell you, that food really tastes different! So delicious and light–a different kind of energy is in it. In my first experience, when I observed this difference from regular food, and made a comment, somebody explained the facts to me. So I have a lot of respect for it, and I think we should respect those traditions, because there is a lot of wisdom, and a lot of reasons behind them, and we don’t know all of them. Hinduism is a very old tradition, with lots of thought and knowledge behind every detail. We modern people, with modern education, may have some reaction to some customs. However, when we learn the facts behind, our attitude will change.
I wouldn’t even condemn those orthodox priests mentioned in articles above, because even if some aspect of their rules bothers or doesn’t make sense to us, at least they are contributing to keep a millenary tradition (with lots of value in it) alive for the next generations. Don’t forget that the fact that we can have the priviledge of learning some of it today is due to those great souls that, with great zeal and great difficulties, kept it alive for us–through centuries of invasions and other calamities. And Hindus, along their history, have shared selflessly their wisdom with the rest of the world.
Om Shanti,
Roberto
March 6th, 2007 at 10:12 am
“I toured the Northeast states of India on behalf of Vivekananda Kendra, lecturing in 30 towns, cities & villages in opposition of forceful conversion. I was welcomed with open arms as a Hindu.”
Fred.This is excellent
sirensongs
Apart from a few western Hindus I know most Western Hindus don’t really take up issues like the persecution of Hindus and the maligning of Hinduism..I wonder how many are even aware of the constant gang rapes of Hindu women and girls and murders of Hindu men in Bangladesh or the murder and ethnic cleansing of Hindus in Kashmir or the kidnapping of Hindu women and murders of Hindus in Pakistan. Hindu symbols are often being degraded by the fashion industry like Hindus gods on shoes or toilets ..Christian missionaries are continuously maligning Hinduism everywhere. Even the Western media continues to report negative stories about Hinduism.I think many Western Hindus could definitely play a massive part in correcting the negative image of Hinduism and also help by raising the human rights of Hindus as many of them come from many different countries and walks of life and they can raise this issues with the media and their governments. This is one site that has a lot information regarding the issues I’ve raised and recommend that all Hindus West or East visit .
Hindu Human Rights
http://www.hinduhumanrights.org/
March 7th, 2007 at 8:14 pm
The eternal question is who am I.
At first my identity is given to me by my parents and my genetics. Soon my culture decides who I am. If I stop in spiritual evolution, there I stop. But this too is maya.
60,000 years ago or so, a group of humans went their ways from their ancestors. As those on the Eurasian (Asiatico-european) terrain looked to find the truth their construct of God was able to show them many solutions. One group call their god Devi, another Kali, another Rama, another Indra, another Agni… And thus the great leaders of the time said there must be a way to undivide these constructs of God. Thus the secular history of Sanatana Dharma created the worlds first and thus far only meta-religion: Tat Sat, Aum, SatCitAnada…
O/W When the universe was created the man that was created and the man that was consumed expressed itself as the universe so that sacrifice (and thus divine love) could be manifest (Purusha-Prakriti). As a part of this manifestation there was a diversity of being which remains yoked (religioned) to the supreme truth. Some people focus on the diversity (religion), some seek the eternal truths and actions (Sanatana Dharma).
Any person who denies that they believe in the eternal truths is non-sensical and thus all of humanity is ready to join in the Sanatana Dharma.
But there are people that don’t want or can’t look beyond categories. To them the world must be parsed out, sectioned, and controlled. They are used to saying the Egyptian religion, the Greek Gods, The Babylonian Gods, the Mosaic gods…. A bunch of these guys come to the Indus valley and have no ability to see the advaitic vision of Sanatana Dharma. They say - look at the Indic gods. The word sticks because for dvaitic vision there is no way to understand Advaita and thus the metareligious construct. Hindus are thusly labeled.
Now a person who understands the advaitic perspective says - don’t label me, I am not a box captured by a name - I am not a hindu. I am a Sanatana Dharmic. I am stava, I am not this not this… I am That. So the conflict arises, they want to label us and we deny labels.
Thus none of us are a “hindu” but all of us are seekers for the eternal truth and dharma.
But the advaitist forgets the teaching of the Vedas and makes an error. The world is diverse, the world has dvaita operating within it. And the Sanatana Dharma confirms / affirms this world and the others. The King must still act as a king, the priest as priest, the farmer a farmer, the householder a householder, the student a student. Advaita is not a denial of dvaita. And so the Sanatana Dharmic must talk about the metareligious principles. Not because transcendency depends on it but because the immanent world depends on it. In order to talk about it efficiently s/he must label it. And thus we say we are HINDU!!
Not because it is a word that describes me but because it is a word that describes anothers contruct of who I am and by using that construct I can join the Sanatana Dharmic process of truth (Asato ma Sad gamaya), lightness (Tamaso ma jyotir gamaya), immortality (mrtyam ma’amrtam gamaya), and peace (shanti).
It is a bad word for us - Hindu - but it is a useful word that can help the world and thus, like Krishna, Rama, Shiva, Devi.. it repitition will soothe the world of dvaita.
I too struggled with whether or not I am a hindu and I recognize this article in my life thus far. Many have told me that I am not, many have said that I am too much of one. It is not FOR Sanatana Dharma that I call myself a Hindu now but BECAUSE OF Sanatana Dharma.
Spread the word.
By the way, though orthodoxy preserves culture and thus teaching, it is spiritual cowardice to seek truth only in the past. Orthodoxy is spiritual cowardice. Hinduism does not accept such cowardice. We accept ignorance in the state of man but to consent to ignorance is an error. The eternal truth/religion is in the moment of now: it demands living now, it demands satya now, justice now, moksha now… Deep and profound realization put into action in the moment of now. The past teaches but is not the goal.
hariaum
March 10th, 2007 at 7:46 am
Dear Sir,
The article is very relevant as it has been only approximately 40 years since the name Hindu has meant anything. The way of life which existed in India extending beyond its shores was known as Sanatana Dharma, and embraced within its fold a whole structure. It dealt with the concept of “Loka Samastha Sukino Bhavanthu”. This people let all the people of all the “WORLDS”, be happy and prosperous. Please note the word “WORLDS”, which meant the Milky way and any sort of life forms also.
The monotheistic thought process, call them relegions, iof you may could not understand or accept this concept as one such relegion refused to accept a scientist when he said that the world went round the Sun and not vice versa!! He was declared belonging to a particular relegion very recently, as if it mattered to him!!
Coming back to main subject when such a concept cannot be conceived how can it be absorped or accepted, so when persons accepting some other thought process came into contact with this concept they could not define it at all! so the y gave it a name as a way of life taht which exists beyond a particular river the Sindu or even it may have been the Indus, so the name “HINDU”.
THe concept of Hindutva is that. Let us go bck to the way of life and let not a group of people following a type of process calling themselves in whatever form they may want to , try to destroy this concept of Loka Samasthat Sukino Bhavanthu.
It is not that one is afraid of the H- Word, it is that theb H-Word is irrelevant as the concept of H existed only after a group of individuals not understand this wholesome concept because of their narrow and puerile thoughts had to redefine great way of life.
The H- word is only for identification for others to kep away from this concept of happiness for the whole world, and so the absence of it, the H- word is nothing to be ashamed or worrisome.
Regards,
V.C.Krishnan
March 10th, 2007 at 4:41 pm
“As far as Indians go, I’ve never been told that I am not a Hindu. ”
India is not the only Hindu country. Have you ever been to Nepal? There, Hinduism is strictly defined as the way you are born.
As far as the Indira Gandhi in Puri issue - that was all a political squabble. The fact is, the “marriage law” does not work in reverse. Supposedly Indira was denied because she had married a Parsi. Why then do people who marry “born” Hindus then not become automatically Hindu? The whole thing is riddled with contradictions and hypocrisy, and there is no defending it. Until the majority of Hindus stand up to these racists I want nothing to do with calling myself “Hindu.”
March 10th, 2007 at 4:45 pm
“a few mandirs don’t, like the Puri one and the one at Guruvayoor, so why insist on going in where you are not welcome, I don’t go into places where I am not welcome.”
The question is NOT why I want to go there- the question is why I am not wanted in the first place. Maybe instead of just accepting that you are “not welcome” in some place (where would that be?) you should ask WHY you are not accepted.
As far as western Hindus helping correct abuse of Hindu symbols and so on, how can they do that when they are not recognized as Hindus in the first place?
March 10th, 2007 at 5:40 pm
“India is not the only Hindu country. Have you ever been to Nepal? There, Hinduism is strictly defined as the way you are born. “
Yeh and now they have a communist government in control so that’s the end of their Hinduism.
“As far as the Indira Gandhi in Puri issue - that was all a political squabble. The fact is, the “marriage law” does not work in reverse. Supposedly Indira was denied because she had married a Parsi. Why then do people who marry “born” Hindus then not become automatically Hindu? The whole thing is riddled with contradictions and hypocrisy, and there is no defending it. Until the majority of Hindus stand up to these racists I want nothing to do with calling myself “Hindu”
Of course there’s plenty of nonsense within Hindu society and that’s what many Hindus are trying to reform and fight against .Only recently Indian born Hindus weren’t even allowed in a Hindu temple and many Hindus have condemned that and far as I know they are allowed in the temple now.Currently there is massive meeting going on among all Hindu leaders and holymen to stamp out such discrimination.So things are happening But because you’re not aware of what is really going on you’re thinking that no one cares.
“a few mandirs don’t, like the Puri one and the one at Guruvayoor, so why insist on going in where you are not welcome, I don’t go into places where I am not welcome.”As far as western Hindus helping correct abuse of Hindu symbols and so on, how can they do that when they are not recognized as Hindus in the first place?
Sorry but my Hinduism is not defined by some moronic pandits at some Hindu temple.What about all the Hindus who have accepted you.? How did you come to even learn about Hindu spirituality or dance in the first place ? It had to be some born Hindus who must have brought to you in the first place.Now instead of rejecting your Hinduness because of some morons you should be working with the Hindus who are on your side and helping to fight the injustices internally and externally that Hindu society is facing and that’s how you should be defining your Hindu identity.It’s only a matter of time these temple doors will be smashed down to let all Hindus in.
March 10th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
” Until the majority of Hindus stand up to these racists I want nothing to do with calling myself “Hindu.” ”
You can call yourself what u like, but just remember that it is this same Hindu society that you bait which preserved a living form of the culture or spirituality that you have benefited from, without which all of it would be only museum pieces rather than anything living that people could benefit from.
March 10th, 2007 at 6:36 pm
It’s interesting to note that siren songs benefits from Hindu practices and spirituality, so why not give that up too since that also comes from a community with racists in it?
“As far as western Hindus helping correct abuse of Hindu symbols and so on, how can they do that when they are not recognized as Hindus in the first place?”
Ya right then maybe you can enlighten us, who runs Hinduism Today magazine if not western Hindus?
http://www.hinduismtoday.com/about_us.shtml
They do not look for acceptance of their Hinduness from some priest in India.
March 11th, 2007 at 11:02 am
Anish,
Very good article - congratulations (I am putting excerpts on my blog).
March 12th, 2007 at 12:08 am
The Brahamkumaris were mentioned in the articles.
They believe in and preach positive thinking, the ancient art of Yoga which many great saints like Swami Vivekanada, Paramhansa Yogananda and Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya have taught.
Whilst Brhamkumaris teach this a Universal wisdom, I have been on their courses and they are really powerful in raising self awareness.
If you get a chance to go on one of the courses, do not be blinded by the fact they do not call themselves Hindus and miss out.
Their denial is their loss.
But looking at it another way they are taking Hindu philosophy to nonHindus who would otherwise not bother to learn about Hinduism.
Its very funny that thy want to don’t want to use the word Hindu because their quotes and teachings come from the Bhagvad Gita.
Apart from the ‘H’ word ‘Y’ word Yoga is also in danger of being lost as non Hindu word.
In America its advertised more as a Buddhist then a Hindu word. As if Buddhist are totally alien to Hindus. If you recall the many Hollywood films:- Meditation and Yoga are mostly associated with Chinese and Buddhist culture.
The only Hindu that seem to make it to the limelight are the ones they mock on TV thanks to the Hare Krishna dancers. The other Hindu they know of are the many controversial Swamis!
March 12th, 2007 at 11:52 pm
Hi Sirensongs, and all
Namaskaram
I agree with what Ram, Dangerous, and Harish Duggirala say in their emails of March 10, but would like to add that before we condemn anything in Hinduism, we have to learn as much as possible of it. And let’s not forget that the problems discussed here relate more to sociology than religion. The interaction between both (and history) is too complex for us Westerners to understand. Probably it will only be up to Indians to resolve it–it’s not right to try to influence other culture into making the changes that will suit us. All we can do is show by example (if we can) things which they may find good and suitable to incorporate into their views or policies.
Regarding Brahma Kumaris, I think what KP says in his email of March 12 is not quite accurate. They (BK) don’t teach the ancient Yoga, much less the Yoga of Vivekananda or Yogananda–or any of the other great saints of India. As a matter of fact, they call their teachings “Raja Yoga,” and so they may confuse people into believing that they teach Patanjali’s Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga), which Vivekananda called Raja Yoga. They do have some good teachings, though, regarding human, ethical values, and offer very good courses on more modern subjects, like those related to self-improvement–this, apart from their particular form of meditation, and their particular philosophy, which differs sharply from the teachings of the Vedas. As for the Bhagavad Gita, I don’t think they quote from it; however they could, because the teachings in the Bhagavad Gita are so universal.
March 13th, 2007 at 6:51 pm
Thanks for the correction ‘R’ and defining their teachings.
If anyone is interested in going to these teachings -which I highly recommend, then there are always courses available
March 14th, 2007 at 10:30 pm
You are very welcome, KP.
March 15th, 2007 at 7:41 pm
Brilliant Article!
I am a Hindu from central europe and recently relocated to the U.K to be closer to my community. I experienced, first hand what the author of this article describes, on many occasions. I go to cummunity events, birthdays, weddings and notice time and time again, that nobody is comfortable to call themselves a Hindu. When I ask about their religious background, I often get a half hearted response such as “my parents are Hindus” or “I am spiritual not religious” To be a Hindu is either considered old fashioned, fanatic or backward.
The only time when Hindus accept their identity is when it is combined with yoga, meditation and vegetarianism and even then the emphasis is on the other half of the combination.
I have experienced this more in the UK and recently in India than anywhere else, including the USA!
Once again, many thanks to the author for hitting the nail right on the head!
Rohid
March 15th, 2007 at 8:41 pm
^^^ I think the problem is, Rohid, that a lot of Hindus who should know better spend their time moaning rather than dooing something constructive about things they see going on around them that they don’t like.
March 16th, 2007 at 12:32 pm
I have to agree with you Dangerous.
Unfortunately, I have been part of the mass population of Hindus who do care about their faith enough to complain about any injustices to Hinduism, but not enough to actually do something about them.
March 16th, 2007 at 11:10 pm
Maybe the time has come for you to join the ranks of those work to make a difference rather than just be spectators? Its now or never for Hindus. We’re at a cross-road which may lead into oblivion and darkness or into a glorious future.
March 18th, 2007 at 12:24 am
Perhaps ordinary Hindus on the street feel insecure, speaking or explaining their religion. Very few actually are educated on the philosophy of our Dharma, and their parents are no wiser.
So when someone asks are you a Hindus its easier to say ‘no’ then be embarrassed by entering into further discussion to which we have no understanding of.
All I have to say to those who are embarrassed is to gain this knowledge by studying various translations and meanings of our religion from different teachers and websites.
Coming back to the BrahmaKumaris, and despite the author of this article giving them a negative look-in, I suggest you listen to their teachings and wisdom which is totally Hindu, and you will learn something amazing which will change your life forever!!
Please go your nearest BrahmKumari session and just listen to what they have to say. Especially if you are one of those who feel insecure about our teachings.
What have you to loose.
Anyone here experience the BrahmaKumaris?
March 27th, 2007 at 8:24 am
Although anyone can choose to call themselves a hindu thats fine. However even the author at then end gave their interpretation of what the word hindu means and every other group has their own ideas. Some groups like the Krsihnas choose to call them selves primarily followers of sanatana dharma or other terms and concepts which are in the vedic literature. Its important not to get so wrapped up in a word so much that if others use traditional ways to descrie themselves then they are looked down upon or even as an enemy as some groups seem to think now.
March 29th, 2007 at 3:46 pm
I agree with vijay…i always tell anyone who asks me that i am a hindu, and would never deny it because i am proud of my roots and faith
But if someone is, in our opinion, a good practising hindu that has dharmic values, what difference does it make to us what they are called? It should be celebrated that they are on a dharmic path. The world knows that Yoga is a Hindu Practice, even though it is described as ‘ancient indian’. Theres no need to label it. The beauty of Hinduism is that it IS universal…and as long as that is understood….what you call yourself is nowadays simply a label for society to judge you by.
April 2nd, 2007 at 4:52 pm
I’m not a Hindu, yet. I do love the Dharma and a lot of the philosophy.
I’ve been visiting a temple in the UK and one thing that has stood out is how friendly everyone is. I’ve talked to a number of people who’ve explained things from their points of view, been welcome at celebrations even encouraged to join in with Arti, Prassad.
The only thing where someone was vehement was when I asked someone who looked like a white person about their Hinduism hoping for some advice for a westerner, only to be told in no uncertain terms that she was a Hindu and always had been. I wonder if she is too often asked.
This is a religion that does not seem to believe in evangelism. I’m happy to feel both through that and also in the feeling of talking to people that the friendliness is genuine. There is also no pressure for me to be Hindu or expectation that I would take part if I didn’t want to. In fact some good advice that taking on too much information too quickly could be more a problem, to enjoy what I have found so far.
Concerning Hindus being willing to describe themselves as such, this didn’t seem to be a problem here. Concerning welcoming non-Indians, this was also not a problem.
April 2nd, 2007 at 9:12 pm
Richard, What prevents you from declaring yourself a hindu? - pardon the question. It is not a pressure technique but an inquisition into how the label works from the “outside.” nkv
April 27th, 2007 at 11:35 am
I am in need of the original article, could you tel how to download it from your website?
July 19th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
An excellent article and a must read for every true and proud Hindu.
I think what has given rise to the present controversey is whether Yoga is an established practice and philosophy of the Hindu religion.or is it a stand alone practice of unknown origin. The short answer is “Of Course it is a part of the Hindu philosophy and discipline. To try and sell it under any other name or make it look like a stand alone ractice of dubious origin is nothing but salesmanship and is being done for money. Yoga as a practice is attractive to the World.but somehow to make it a part of the Hindu religious philosophy is not. That is the reason why you will have many varieties of Yoga soon. The answer to my mind is a concerted effort at educating the Yoga practioners in the West with proper emphasis at ever level that it is a practice with Hindu connections as well as of its Indian origin.
July 21st, 2007 at 2:38 pm
“Perhaps ordinary Hindus on the street feel insecure, speaking or explaining their religion. Very few actually are educated on the philosophy of our Dharma, and their parents are no wiser.
So when someone asks are you a Hindus its easier to say ‘no’ then be embarrassed by entering into further discussion to which we have no understanding of.”
Maybe KP u are right.
But when people ask me what “faith” am I - I say Hindu - and if they ask what that means - I tell them that “if I tried to explain you would not understand - it is too complex to put into mere words”… or is I’aint feeling so “dhramic” i say “Do i look like a book on comprative religion to you”.
That usually shut’s em up.
and if they don’t like it - screw em.
As for trying to make out that Yoga is not a construct and intergral part of of Hinduism is just the west and certain Indian puppets trying to keep the Hindu faith and Hindu people in the position of “slavery”.
“The Hindu’s did nothing to contribute to the knowledge base of the world… it was all the work of the people of Ancient India”
Yeah and which religion flourished in that time and location… dumb koff.
hahahah rant over… there are only four words that need to be uttered…
“I am a Hindu” - that is it … no need to explain, no need to apologise -
January 28th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
I see that Dharmanidhi has posted a comment on March 2nd, 2007 at 3:52 am . Check out his website! Clearly he is making false claims as I’ve just received this email from Bihar School of Yoga. I will also paste in an extract from his Theory and Practice of Recognizing and Stabilizing the Experience of One’s Nature through Sexual Sadhana Presented by Tantrik Yogi Dharmanidhi Sarasvati and Trika Institute October 28/29 2006, Berkeley, California.
:
bihar yoga wrote:
Date: Mon, 28 Jan 2008 11:50:19 +0530
From: “bihar yoga”
To:
Subject: Your recent fax
Blessed Self
Hari Om.
We have received your fax recent fax regarding Dharmanidhi and his activities in North America. In response to the questions you have raised in your fax, we hope the following information will assist you:
1. Dharmanidhi has not spent any time here in formal study with our organization. He has no level of training or accomplishment with our institute. He is a teacher who came in contact with our tradition of Bihar Yoga in Australia, and took a preliminary initiation, as many others do, from Swami Niranjan, on one of his regular visits to that country.
2. Within our tradition, the only person currently authorized to give any form of initiation is Swami Niranjan Saraswati, the appointed successor of Swami Satyananda Saraswati. No other authorization for giving initiations has been given to anyone.
3. Bihar School of Yoga and associated institutions have never endorsed sexual tantra.
For those people, such as yourself, who are questioning the claims of Dharmanidhi and are inquiring as to the teachings of our tradition, we suggest they refer to the published works of the Gurus within our lineage; Swami Sivananda Saraswati, Swami Satyananda Saraswati, and Swami Niranjan Saraswati. Swami Sivananda wrote a great many books which are available through the Divine Life Society in Rishikesh, and the teachings of both Swami Satyananda and Swami Niranjan are available via the Yoga Publications Trust books published here in Munger.
With best wishes,
Om Tat Sat
Page 6
If you were to ask people on the street in the U.S.A. if they thought that eating meat, ritually sacrificing animals to get that meat, drinking wine, staying out late at night under the moon, having sex with people out of wedlock or even that you had just met that night was anything weird or dangerous the vast majority of young people today would not even bat an eye.
However, the one area that is still taboo for most western societies that is the norm and pre-requisite for sexualized ritual practice through initiation is having sexual contact with the teacher. We as a culture have burnt many of our societal sacred cows but this one is very hard to shake. It strikes at the heart of our Victorian age ethics and morals and yet is a normal aspect of the mentor-student relationship throughout most of the world’s
shamanic and non-Judeo-Christian-Muslim cultures.
…We should also mention here that in the Tantrik tradition a male acarya cannot be considered a Guru in the tradition until he has received the final consecrating initiation from a female master of the tradition via sexual initiation. This is why after becoming an acarya and graduating from my Gurus training they told me to travel through the rural areas of India where great female practitioners of Tantra can still occasionally be encountered as they roam free. They suggested I learn three systems of sexualized ritual because they thought it relevant for the teaching I was being sent out to do amongst lay householders in the U.S.A.
February 1st, 2008 at 11:49 am
We should try to find out the reason why Hindus do not want to be identified as Hindus.
Hindu is a recent name posibly given by Alexander’s Greek army. Hinduism means the prevailing practices and thought that existed in the east of the Sindhu river when the Geeks encountered the Indians. As a result, Hindu means diverse ways, variety of beliefs, no central position and dilution of definite religion. It can Monotheistic, Polythesistic, Atheists, Materialistic, Tantric, worshippers of Kali and any other imaginary forces. The follwers can be vegetarians or can sacrifice animals and eat. They may accept only pure Brahman or may worship rats.
That is the reason Vaktivedanta Prabhupad of ISKON said that he is a Sanatan Dharmic but not a Hindu.
Sanatan Dharma is more specific; it comes from Rig Veda, Upanishads and Bhagwat Gita. It has specific principles, philosophy and definitions.
As I can read comments from a number of Hindus that they do not accept the books I have mentioned but want to include other practices like worshiping of Siva, Kali, animal sacrifice, nonvegetarian foods, intoxicating drinks, tantric practices, etc etc, there will be sure conflicts between those Hindus who wants to include everything on earth as Hinduism and those who want to follow only the Sanatan Dharma.
Thus, a clear definition is needed; a clear philosophical position is required. ISKON provides a guideline, but as I can see from the comments, it is not acceptable to many.
If your house id divided you cannnot invite others in it or you can advertise for it. Hindus should seriously consider exactly where do they stand and what do they stand for. Christians, Jews, Buddhists and Muslims have definite answers, we Hindus do not have. Here is the problem.
For the supporters of the Puri Temple and ISKON followers I have this question: why do you think Jaggannath is a Hindu deity, when historically it is not. Sankar went to Puri in 9th century and refused to accept Jaggannath. On 6th century the King of Bengal Sasanka had invaded Puri and burned down the temple as promoting a heretic practice.
Thus, if Puri temple do not allow even Indira Gandhi to enter it is not that Hindus are rejecting the foreigners or those who married foreigners or non-Hindus, but the Puri temple is not a temple according to the Sanatan Dharma. Although it is called a Hindu temple.
This is also true about Pashupati Nath Temple in Kathmandu, which does not allow entry for any non-Hindus. If Siva is not a deity according to Sanatan Dharma ( he was not mentioned in the Bhagwat Gita or Upanishads) that temple may be a Hindu temple but not according to Sanatan Dharma.
What is the answer????
February 4th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Truth is my Brahman. All else is commentary.
Actions seeking The Good is my dharma. All else is commentary.
The Bliss of Godhead (atman=paratman) is my source and my end. All else is commentary.
Bhu, Bhuva, Swaha, Om maha, jana, tapa, satyam,
Tat Savitur varenyam bhrago devasiya dhimahi…
From earth, sky, and heaven
Of greatness, selfcreated, ascetic energy, and truth
That Effulgent being who all gods worship…
Tat Sat: that is truth.
ALL ELSE is commentary.
hariaum
April 19th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
can anybody send me shiv bawani a poem of kaviraj bhushan, pl ?
April 26th, 2008 at 7:41 am
hindu is a great religion, it has no restriction when compair to other religion, i feel great to follow this loverly and wonderful and colourfull religion, its the religion with maxmun numerber of festival.
my request is to all hindu brother and sisters
please dont discremet hindu people on the bases of caste and language.
May 2nd, 2008 at 1:39 pm
What a great article! Here at the Classical Yoga Hindu Academy, we have been striving for years to get people to recognize the “obvious;” e.g., all of Yoga is Hinduism.
As expected, we have made very little progress with so-called “certified yoga teachers” and their innumerable “yoga studios.” What, however, has been more surprising is that very, very few “Hindus?” express any concern whatsoever. In fact, many (one supposes they are Hindus) of these latter individuals and groups actually promote the separation of “Yoga” from Hinduism.
The Sanskrit/Hindu word “Yoga,” of course, means “to yoke Atmana and Brahaman.” The various Hindu/Yogas (and the prefix should be used for clarity) constitute Hinduism. Hatha Yoga is the form of Hinduism/Yoga that is most often misrepresented by simply the word “yoga.” One will find Hindus constantly misusing “Yoga” to mean what should be called “Hatha Yoga” or “Yogasana.” See the problem?
When “yoga” just stands for Hatha Yoga, then the other aspects of Hinduism/Yoga are completely ignored and misunderstood. For example, the phony yoga teachers often say, “Not all Hindus do yoga!” What? All devout Hindus (in various degrees) do Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Raja Yoga and Jnana Yoga, ton name a few. Not only is this a misunderstanding of the great body of Yoga/Hinduism but also, even, Hatha Yoga. At its most basic and important aspect, Hatha Yoga is about assuming “one steady posture.” “Posture” is also, importantly, about at mental and emotional attitude. True Hatha Yoga are the devotional postures of Hinduism. A true Yogi/Yogini (a true no-body) is so far beyond the concept of the modern notion of a so-called “yogi/yogini.”
So when “yoga” simply means an exercise or vague “universal spirituality,” the field as been left wide open for the many perversion we see today. There is “Hot Yoga,” “Power Yoga,” “Nude Yoga,” “Yoga Booty Ballet,” “Wendy’s Yoga,” “Mary’s Yoga,” “John’s Yoga,” ad nauseum. And, of course, all these “yogas” are busines$! In 2007, this “yoga industry” brought in almost 6 billion dollars! How much of that did Hindus see? 0. BTW, Hindus invented that too!
Again, it is the “closet Hindus” who are to blame. Beside the blatant deceivers like Bikram, Iyengar and Jois, almost every well-known “Swami” or “Guru” (Dayananda, Chidananda, Sri Sri, etc.) is behind the misuse of the Sanskrit/Hindu word “Yoga” as well as creating non-Hindu “yoga teachers.” Even a magazine like “Hinduism Today” regularaly distorts the word “Yoga” and even does interviews with and advertises phony yoga teachers.
As a Hindu/Yoga religious organization, we get calls weekly by those interested in taking “yoga.” When they are informed that they will be learning the Hindu/Yogic religion, they are shocked and often outraged! What? “Yoga has nothing to do with religion and certainly NOT Hinduism!” Imagine calling up a Christian Priest and asking to take “Baptism classes” and telling the Priest “Baptism has nothing to do with religion and certainly NOT Christianity.” “Don’t you know that Baptism is a universal underwater therapy/exercise?” What is the matter with you?
So, Hindus, wake-up! We can no longer safely use the Swastika; and now a “Guru” is simply any kind of expert; and “Yoga” is simply another form of “physical exercise” or “universal spirituality.”
Stand-up for your religion. Nobody respects a coward!
June 3rd, 2008 at 6:48 am
Are Brahmakumaris Hindu? Only if it is good for their business.
The answer is no and the poster who stated they do not teach “Ancient Raja Yoga” is absolutely correct. Channelling, mediumship and possession is more like it … only they claim that the spirit that possessed their founder medium is the one and only God of all. A spirit. It is to this spirit that they hook individuals up to and encourage them to surrender mind, body … and wealth … too.
They use the words but it all means something different. Half the VIPs and IPs they court do not understand this and get sucked in by it. Its a strange parasitical relationship the BK have with society. They use everyone else word and ideas, other people’s money, but they don’t really give back much.
I guess as a celibate religion, the only way they have of expanding is to break other people’s families too.
Check out these people … http://www.brahmakumaris.info.