By Alok Ulfat
Bangladesh in flames,
Children’s cries pierce our souls
Humans slaughter Humans
World divided, unjust demands
How will we heal the wounds?
Bangladesh is on fire. Sitting in the corners of Dehradun, far removed from the riotous reality of Bangladesh we can’t feel the pain of this poor and naïve nation. The unrest, student protests and more so ever, it is disheartening to witness the violence and destruction inflicted upon innocent Hindu families by certain extremist factions. Non-violent student protests are understandable within the framework of democratic expression, but acts of killing, rape, and the vandalising of businesses and temples are definitely shameful. These barbaric acts are deeply shocking and reveal a profound moral failing among those who perpetrate such violence. What a shame. What is so Pak about Bangladesh.
It is profoundly troubling to see that many such religious groups, driven by narrow-minded doctrines, have become victims of their own ideologies, compelling them to such inhuman violent acts. The expansion of such religions often has roots in fear, conflict, insecurity, and a quest for power, rather than in genuine spiritual growth or enlightenment. Unfortunately, many religions have no potential to renew themselves. Many times, a path of salvation becomes a cage to rot in. For any religion to truly progress, it must be willing to evolve and adapt over time, through love and inspiration. It is essential for any religion to continually refresh its beliefs and practices to align with contemporary values and the evolving nature of human societies. Every dead idea and that which can cause deaths in the future should be gently removed. Violence cannot be religious.
Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of a liberated and progressive society. It is a sign of education, growth, and maturity. Through art, literature, music, culture, journalism, debates, and conferences and many ways to express ourselves, one can contribute to societal change. During my travels abroad, I have witnessed artists and intellectuals expressing their views passionately without resorting to violence. In India, we have the privilege of expressing ourselves freely, provided it does not encroach upon the rights and well-being of others. Engaging in healthy and robust discussions fosters new realisations and societal advancement. Just as stagnant water becomes foul and breeds germs, so too does a society stagnate without continual evolution and openness to change. So, all religious ideas that stop individual growth have to change in a progressive society. We in India must turn forward and leave dead traditions of the past and learn from what is coming from the future. Not to forget that there is a rising sun for everyone in the world.
Indian culture, encompassing diverse religions and traditions including Buddhism, Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and others, must continue to evolve and adapt with the times. Our identity as Indians should transcend religious differences. We are first and foremost part of the earth community, and then of our respective regions and religions, with our individual beliefs following as a part of this broader context. Embracing the whole before focusing on the parts is crucial for a harmonious and progressive society. So, first comes the well-being of the universe and then the individual, although the individual and the universe is the same in Sanatan understanding.
Growing up in a Hindu Brahmin family, I was taught from an early age to respect and appreciate the diversity of faiths. We celebrated festivals from various traditions and lived harmoniously with others. Despite encountering harsh criticism from individuals of other cultures, my parents advised us to overlook such negativity, emphasising the importance of personal growth and patience. They believed that evolution in understanding and acceptance would come with time. My father studied at Lahore University and even adopted a pen name Ulfat, an Urdu word for love. He was saddened by the partition, and he felt that the British government and the existing leaders did not handle the situation well. Our people were exhausted by the freedom struggle and could not accept getting uprooted from their homes but also losing the roots of their culture. The blood stains of the partition will remain on the calendar of the history of the world. My father has long gone to the spiritual world but the brutality in the region continues. Bangladesh and Pakistan need serious help.
Things would be different if the political agendas were different. If the philosophy of life was different there would have been no partition. To understand the depth of our cultural heritage, let us reflect on five remarkable mantras of Hindu philosophy:
- Aum (Om): This sacred sound symbolises the unity of past, present, and future, embodying the force that unifies all energies and life.
- Soham: Meaning “You are; therefore, I am”, meaning the other is you and so there is no conflict. The problem is with the message not the messenger.
- Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” meaning all living beings on the earth are a family. This principle expresses the idea that “one family” advocates for universal brotherhood and interconnectedness.
- Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah…: A prayer for the well-being of all beings in the universe.
- Shanti Mantra – Aum dhyo: This mantra wishes peace for all beings and planets. It is a mantra of Universal Blessing. It blesses minerals, plants, animals, humans and the spiritual world to be in peace.
The above mantras reflect a philosophy of universal harmony. Our ancestors conceived these principles with a vision of a graceful, joyful and inclusive society. It is puzzling that some monotheistic perspectives fail to recognise that what they call Hindus / Sanatanis are not an obstacle in any ones spiritual, social and economic development but encourages one to find one’s understanding of eternal truth. It is a non-compulsive way of life that encourages peace.
The situation in Bangladesh is tragic, and the exploitation and genocide of Hindus must cease immediately.
(Alok Ulfat is an engaged cultural worker, director, playwright and educationist)
