Louisville Proclaims September 3 as Sanatana Dharma Day: A Symbol of Interfaith Harmony and Understanding
In a remarkable gesture of interfaith solidarity, the city of Louisville, Kentucky, United States, has officially declared September 3 as Sanatana Dharma Day. This significant proclamation was announced by Mayor Craig Greenberg through deputy mayor Barbara Sexton Smith during the Maha Kumbha Abhishekam celebration at the Hindu Temple of Kentucky in Louisville. The event witnessed the participation of esteemed spiritual leaders including Chidanand Saraswati, president of Parmarth Niketan, Rishikesh, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and Bhagawati Saraswati, along with Lieutenant governor Jacqueline Coleman, deputy chief of staff Keisha Dorsey, and various other dignitaries.
The declaration of Sanatana Dharma Day in Louisville stands as a symbol of the city’s commitment to fostering interfaith understanding, unity, and mutual respect. Sanatana Dharma, often referred to as Hinduism, is one of the world’s oldest spiritual traditions, encompassing a diverse range of beliefs and practices. This proclamation recognizes the rich tapestry of religious and cultural diversity within the city and seeks to celebrate the contributions of the Hindu community, as well as promote a spirit of inclusivity among its residents.
The timing of this declaration holds a special significance, especially in light of recent controversies surrounding remarks made by political leaders in India. In response to comments made by Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader Udhayanidhi Stalin and Congress’s Priyank Kharge, an FIR was registered in Rampur, India, alleging the outraging of religious sentiments. The controversy arose from Stalin’s comparison of Sanatana Dharma to diseases like dengue and malaria during an event in Tamil Nadu. Priyank Kharge lent support to Stalin’s statement, emphasizing the importance of religion promoting equality and human dignity.
This development highlights the global resonance of discussions surrounding religion and its role in society. While disagreements and debates over religious interpretations are not uncommon, the Louisville proclamation serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for dialogue and understanding. By designating a day to honor Sanatana Dharma, the city acknowledges the importance of embracing diversity and creating an environment where various faiths coexist harmoniously.
In a world marked by increasing religious diversity, the declaration of Sanatana Dharma Day in Louisville is a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusivity, respect, and the celebration of its multicultural fabric. It sends a strong message of unity, emphasizing that regardless of our religious affiliations, we share a common humanity that transcends cultural boundaries. As the proclamation takes effect, it is hoped that it will serve as an inspiration for communities worldwide to foster greater interfaith dialogue, understanding, and harmony.
BJP Criticizes DMK Leader’s Controversial Remarks on Sanatan Dharma as ‘Outrageous and Hinduphobic’
The BJP strongly criticized DMK leader A Raja’s remarks against Sanatan Dharma, labeling them as “outrageous and vitriolic.” They accused Raja’s comments of reflecting the “mental bankruptcy” and “deep-seated Hinduphobia” within the INDIA bloc. Union Minister and BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized that changing names doesn’t hide one’s intent and character.
Raja had reportedly compared Sanatan Dharma to diseases like AIDS and leprosy with social stigma. Pradhan condemned such statements, highlighting that they malign the essence of Bharat’s soul and spirit. He reaffirmed the eternal and truthful nature of Sanatan, cautioning against hate-mongering by Congress and its associates.
“So the coming elections I challenge you, let’s fight on ‘Sanatan Dharma’. DMK say it’s going to abolish ‘Sanatan Dharma’, we’ll say that we’ll protect and preserve ‘Sanatan Dharma’. We will see where the people of Tamil Nadu are going to vote. We know the DMK drama for many years. After you come to power the first year is opposing ‘Sanatan Dharma’, the second year you say abolishing ‘Sanatan Dharma’, the third year you want to brutally root out ‘Sanatan Dharma’, the fourth year you say that you are a Hindu, you say that 90% of the DMK party men are Hindu.
Fifth year you say that you are a Hindu…Come 2024 the DMK as a party is going to get wiped out. I didn’t say your son (Udhayanidhi Stalin) said it because D stands for ‘Dengue’, M stands for ‘Malaria’ and K stands for ‘Kosu’,” Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai said.
