Satya Dharam Samvad SDS Denounces Divisive Dharam Sansad, Calls for Unity Among Hindus

Religious Leaders Urge Harmony, Reject Hate Speech in the Name of Hinduism

In a strong appeal for religious harmony, the Satya Dharam Samvad (SDS) has urged Hindu religious leaders to reject the divisive Dharam Sansad led by controversial figure Yati Narsinghanand. In a statement released on December 6, 2024, the SDS emphasized the need for unity, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue, calling for a rejection of actions and rhetoric that foster hatred and division.

The SDS statement, signed by 62 prominent Hindu spiritual leaders and scholars, reaffirmed Hinduism’s core values of inclusivity and respect for all faiths. The statement read, “As guardians of Hinduism’s profound legacy, we are troubled by the misuse of religion to spread hatred and violence. Hinduism’s ideals of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Sarva Dharma Sambhava (equal respect for all religions) must guide our actions.”

The SDS also condemned the upcoming “World Religion Convention,” organized by Narsinghanand, describing it as a departure from the true spirit of Sanatan Dharma. The group expressed concern over provocative rhetoric targeting specific faiths, warning that such acts erode Hinduism’s spiritual sanctity and jeopardize India’s interfaith harmony.

Key Points from the SDS Statement:

1. Rejecting Hate Speech: The SDS condemned divisive actions, hate speech, and gatherings that disrespect other religions or incite violence, asserting that these are against Hindu values.
2. Fostering Dialogue: The organization highlighted the importance of interfaith understanding, emphasizing that peaceful coexistence is essential for spiritual and societal growth.
3. Opposing Extremism: The SDS criticized the exploitation of religion for political or divisive motives, calling for accountability from authorities to curb such misuse.
4. Appeal for Unity: Stressing Hinduism’s inclusive ethos, the statement urged all communities to work together to strengthen India’s unity amidst diversity.

The statement drew broad support from spiritual leaders and organizations, including the Lingayat Community, Varkari Sampraday, and institutions like Vishwanath Mandir and the School of Bhagavad Gita. Notable signatories included Mahant Bajrang Acharya, Professor Anantanand Rambachan, Sadhvi Ayodhya, and Dr. Sudhir Vombatkere.

The SDS also referenced a recent article by Swami Raghavendra in The Wire Hindi, titled “Dharma Sansad Becoming Enemy of Communal Harmony.” The article warned against using religion as a tool for division and echoed the SDS’s concerns.

Unlike the divisive approach of Yati Narsinghanand’s Dharam Sansad, the SDS called for a return to the tradition of samvad (dialogue) that unites rather than divides. Their message: the essence of Sanatan Dharma lies in love, tolerance, and service to humanity.

On the misuse of religion:

1. “As guardians of Hinduism’s profound and inclusive legacy, we are deeply troubled by the growing misuse of religion to foster hatred, division, and violence within our society.”

2. Core values of Hinduism:
   “Hinduism, with its timeless ideals of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Sarva Dharma Sambhava (equal respect for all religions), has always stood as a beacon of peace, acceptance, and unity.”

3. Condemnation of hate speech:
   “We unequivocally condemn any words, actions, or gatherings that promote hatred, disrespect other faiths, or incite violence. These are antithetical to Hindu values and teachings.”

4. On interfaith harmony:
   “True spirituality lies in recognizing the divine in all beings and fostering equality and mutual respect. A peaceful and harmonious coexistence is the foundation of collective growth and spiritual well-being.”

5. Against political exploitation of religion:
   “Hinduism does not need to diminish other faiths to affirm its identity or strength. True spiritual growth comes from introspection, compassion, and shared humanity.”

6. A call to action for unity:
   “Our nation’s greatest strength lies in its unity amidst diversity. We urge Hindus and people of all faiths to come together in the spirit of kindness, understanding, and mutual respect.”

7. On rejecting divisive gatherings:
   “The provocative rhetoric and actions targeting specific faiths undermine the spiritual sanctity of Hinduism and threaten the delicate harmony that sustains our diverse nation.”

8. Encouraging accountability:
   “We call on responsible authorities to take decisive action against those who manipulate religion for selfish or political gain, ensuring that fairness and justice prevail.”