HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
DIWALI 2016
at the european parliament
Bhaktivedanta Manor
Jai Sri Rama!
Artwork by Kim Waters
Message from MEP Geoffrey Van Orden
Dear Friends,
Wishing you all a very Happy Diwali and Bandhi Chorr Diwas,
In many parts of the world, 2016 has been a year of turbulence; what more
appropriate way then to begin to chase away the darkness with a celebration of
light. Diwali, when Hindus remember Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom after
a lengthy exile, symbolises good triumphing over evil - a theme which is always
appropriate but perhaps especially so this year.
Once again, The Members of the European Parliament will be working with
the Hindu Forum of Europe to host Diwali celebrations. It is wonderful to be
able to celebrate an event like Diwali in such an international and multicultural
institution.
During the time that I lived in India with my family, I have fond memories of the
houses lit up with lamps, and the fireworks and feasts that come with this celebration. I have retained my deep affection for India and the deep seeds of spirituality
that have been cultivated in her soil and waters over millennia. It was a particular
honour to address a gathering of nearly a million people at Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's
World Culture Festival in Delhi earlier this year and now I am looking forward
to hosting Diwali in the European Parliament in my capacity as Chairman of
the Delegation for Relations with India. The programme will include traditional
dance as well as speeches from Ambassadors and spiritual leaders about what the
festival means to them.
It has been a great pleasure to collaborate with the Hindu Forum of Europe and
learn more about its work outside of India in recent months. There are over three
million Hindus in Europe, half of whom live in my country, the United Kingdom.
Whatever our religious beliefs, celebrating Diwali encourages cross-cultural
understanding and respect in a political climate too often dominated by intolerance
and radicalism.
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Message from MEP Neena Gill
The return of Lord Rama and Sita from their ordeals conjures the image of many
thousands of lights being lit to greet them, and that out of any darkness there is
still hope.
It sometimes easy to forget to things we have to be grateful for when it seems that
every day there is more bad news. Diwali is a welcome opportunity to spend time
with loved ones, reflect upon our lives and celebrate all the things we have to be
thankful for.
It has been a difficult year and whilst we may have lost some difficult battles we
must celebrate where we have been victorious.
We must all continue to shed light on the achievements of our communities and
celebrate our diversity. Knowledge will always defeat ignorance.
We should be thankful for the freedoms we have and help those who are desperately seeking our protection. Good will always overcome evil.
I wish you and your families a happy Diwali and a fulfilling and healthy year ahead.
Despite difficult times for the UK and Europe we still need to work together to
uphold these values, and do that work true to the spirit of Diwali, with solidarity,
tolerance and respect.
Geoffrey Van Orden MBE MEP
Chairman, Delegation for Relations with India
Once again, I wish you and your family a very happy Diwali!
[email protected] Brussels - WIB 06M049, Rue Wiertz 60, B-1047 Tel. +32 2 28-47332 Fax +32 2 28-49332 UK - 88 Rectory Lane, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 1 RF
Warm Wishes
Neena Gill
HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
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Message from MEP Cora Van Nieuwenhuizen
Message from MEP Jo Leinen
Dear Readers,
Dear Friends,
On October 30th of this year, the festival of lights is once again celebrated by
many Indians. I would therefore like to wish you a most happy Diwali in this
festival that embodies unity, prosperity and of course, joy. I hope that many of
you are able to share this happiness with loved ones, friends and family members.
I feel honoured to be with you at this time of Diwali. It is wonderful to celebrate
this festival of lights with my Indian friends here in the European Parliament.
Indian philosophy and the values shared through Diwali are universal. I believe
that we in Europe should look more beyond our borders to the East. So many
Indian traditions can help make peace. Serenity, kindness and respect for mankind
must be the basis of our societies. I would also like to highlight the role that yoga
and meditation can play in making the world a better place. Yoga day is a perfect
occasion to celebrate this great achievement in the European Parliament. We need
it now more than ever in these troubled times.
I see the spirit of Diwali being carried in the great developments that India has
been able to achieve in its recent history. As a nation you have prospered and
enjoyed growth like the world has witnessed only few times. At the same time,
many more challenges lay ahead. As a Parliamentarian of the second largest
electorate in the world, following the great Parliament of India, I perceive that
the challenges ahead ask for ever greater dialogue and cooperation. I therefore
hope that relations between the EU and India will prosper further for the benefit
of us all.
On this note I wish you once again a very happy Diwali together with the ones
that are near and dear to you.
I wish everybody a very happy Diwali.
MEP Jo Leinen
Yours sincerely,
Cora van Nieuwenhuizen
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
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Message from MEP Claude Moraes
I am delighted that the we have the chance to celebrate the wonderful festival of
Divali in the European Parliament for the second time.
This is an opportunity to celebrate the largest Hindu Festival of the year which
reminds us of the importance of hope and compassion. These are feelings which
now are more important than ever, and give new meaning to our work as we
strive to further peace and prosperity in our daily lives.
The celebrations are also a time to recognise the important contribution of the
Hindu and Sikh communities in all aspects of life in Europe and beyond, and to
recognise the potential for hope and compassion to triumph over fear.
I wish you all a very happy and prosperous Divali.
Claude Moraes
Message from MEP Igor Soltes
Respected Excellencies, Guests, Friends,
​Diwali is a five-day festival widely known as the Hindu New Year, and comes
from the Sanskrit word dipavali (dipa, lights and vali, numerous. The festival is
commonly observed by illuminating hundreds of candles in homes, temples and
public spaces, and by offering opulent preparations of food to the deity.
At night, buildings are illuminated with earthen lamps, candlesticks, and electric
bulbs. The city presents a bright and colorful sight. People buy sweets for their
own families and also send them as presents to their friends and relatives. At
night, Goddess Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, is worshiped. They let the light on
so that Goddess Laxmi may find no difficulty in finding her way​. We hope that she
will smile on all of us.
In ancient times, Diwali was first observed by the citizens of Ayodhya to celebrate
the joyful return of King Rama. One of the major festivals of Hinduism, it
spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge
over ignorance, and hope over despair.
May we light the light of diwali to fill homes, European Parliament and Europe
with light of joy and happiness.
On this great day I wish you a happy dewali.
MEP Igor Soltes
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
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MEP Dennis de Jong
Message from the European Commission
Dear Readers,
Dear Friends,
As co-chair of the Intergroup for Freedom of Religion or Belief of the European
Parliament, I wish you all a "Shubh Diwali". During this celebratory moment
families come together, lights are lit and food is shared looking towards the
prosperity of a new year. Let this positivity direct us to promote tolerance and
friendship in the world, especially during this difficult period, when our thoughts
are with the victims of terrorism.
Light is a powerful symbol shared by many religious and cultural traditions in
Europe and around the world. It expresses a universal hope for happiness and joy
that many religious and cultural traditions have captured. Light is a symbol that
can and should unite us all. Communities of faith and conviction belong to our
common heritage and play an important role in our society. It is this role that we
value as we continue to develop our dialogue with churches, religions and non-confessional organisations. European history and culture is marked by a rich diversity
of communities of faith and convictions. We cherish freedom of religion, along
with freedom of thought and conscience, which constitute one of the essential
foundations of our societies.
Diwali shows that our values of love, peace and respect for each other are universal values. No terrorist act can ever endanger these values as they are inherent in
mankind, whatever one's religion or belief.
Universal values prevail in every part of the world. Challenges such as the
anti-conversion and blasphemy laws in South Asia, which are in the intergroup's
opinion violations of these values as laid down, inter alia, in the UN Declaration
on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination based on
Religion or Belief, can only be overcome by our resolve to emphasise and re-emphasise the importance of these values."
MEP Dennis de Jong
Hinduism has become a growing part of the European religious landscape, given
also the rising numbers of Europeans joining the Hindu faith. The Hindu Forum
of Europe plays an active role in the dialogue between the European Commission
and Churches, religions and non-confessional organisations foreseen in the EU
treaties, and has participated on several occasions in the annual high-level meeting
for religious leaders, which I now chair. In this context, I am glad that we will be
able to meet once again, on 29 November 2016, to address the theme "Migration,
Integration and European Values: putting values into action".
Solidarity has for decades been one of Europe's core values. This solidarity is
challenged today. Solidarity is not altruism. I believe that if we rekindle the spirit
of solidarity, starting in the middle of our society, providing for better education,
healthcare, and economic opportunities it will radiate upwards and downwards in
the whole of society. Given that churches and religious communities, including
the Hindu Forum of Europe, bring together believers from a wide range of
society, they can also play a role in overcoming division in society. Religious
communities are among those who are best placed to address the issue of the core
values that should unite us all. Hinduism with its ancient tradition of pluralism is
well placed to bring an important contribution to this European conversation.
Wishing you a Prosperous New Year and a Happy Diwali!
Frans Timmermans
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
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Message from the Ambassador
Message from the Ambassador
Message for Diwali Celebrations at the European Parliament
Message from the Ambassador on the occasion of Diwali,
I am delighted that true to its traditions of upholding the spirit of cultural
diversity and multi-religious tolerance, the European community through its
representatives at the European Parliament, will celebrate the auspicious and
popular festival of Diwali at the premises of the European Parliament for the
second consecutive year.
It is with great joy that we associate ourselves with the Hindu Forum of Europe
to celebrate Diwali again at the European Parliament.
The celebrations being jointly hosted aptly by the Chairman of the Delegation
for Relations with India, MEP Mr. Geoffrey Van Orden and the Hindu Forum
of Europe, strengthens my conviction of the massive leaps made by humanity
towards promotion of harmony and friendship even in the face of challenges of
extremism and terrorism being propagated by some.
In Mauritius, as elsewhere, Diwali is a harmonious blend of prayers, family
gatherings, glittering clay lamps, festive fireworks, strings of electric lights and
sharing of sweets in the community. Diwali is the festival of light and is therefore
an occasion of joy and sharing for all. It is also associated to the worship of Maha
Lakshmi – the goddess of wealth and prosperity.
Diwali is a festival of lights involving decorations of the oil-fueled lamps in
small earthen pots in households and surroundings. The festival, symbolizing the
triumph of good over evil, has now become global with millions across the world
of diverse religious faiths celebrating it with pomp and splendor as a perfect
manifestation of social inclusivity and unity in diversity. It is therefore appropriate that the celebrations will be held again this year at the European Parliament,
an institution that embodies these spirits.
At the deeper level, Diwali also embodies the light of God in the human heart
radiating outwards to illumine a world clouded in darkness. As we rejoice on
Diwali night in a spirit of communion, let us, therefore, also meditate on its
essence and let us pray that Diwali leads us from darkness to the blissful inner
light of knowledge, truth and compassion.
Holding a special spiritual significance across many faiths and communities,
Diwali is one of the most observed religious events around the world.
On behalf of the Embassy of Mauritius and in my own name, I am pleased to
convey to you all our warmest and heartiest wishes for a very Happy Diwali.
I wish you all a Very Happy Diwali!!!
May Mother Lakshmi shower her blessings upon us all.
H.E. Manjeev Singh Puri,
Ambassador of India to Belgium, Luxembourg and the European Union
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
H. Dillum,
Ambassador of the Republic of Mauritius to Belgium and the EU
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Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
Message from the Ambassador
EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF FIJI SQUARE
PLASKY, 92-94
1030 BRUSSELS
Tel.: +32(0)2-736.90.50 Fax: +32(0)2-736.14.58
E-mail : [email protected]
Website : www.fijiembassy.be
Message from the Ambassador
Message from the Ambassador,
Dear Readers,
To the honorable members of the Hindu Forum of Europe and to all my Hindu
friends in Europe.
I am extremely delighted to bring this message on behalf of the people and the
Government of the Republic of Fiji on the celebration of this auspicious festival
of Diwali. The celebrations being organised by the Hindu Forum of Europe
at the prestigious institution of the European Parliament is indeed profound
symbolism of its universal recognition.
Allow me to wish you a happy and festive Diwali for the year 2016. Indeed this is
a special celebration where we rejoice the triumph of light over darkness, of good
versus evil.
Indonesia is home to almost 120 million people, Hindus make up three percent
of the population. Most Hindu worshippers in Indonesia live in Bali. There,
the celebration of light is commemorated through the holy day of “Galungan”.
Indonesians of Indian descent also celebrate Diwali in many cities throughout the
country, particularly in Jakarta and Medan.
For Indonesians, diversity is valued as a source of strength for the country. The
Hindu community is a strong pillar that holds our nation together. The Hindu
culture and traditions date back to the 5th century, when the first Hindu kingdom,
Kutai, was established in eastern Kalimantan. Throughout Indonesia’s modern
history, the Hindu community had also played a significant role in the development of the country. Side by side, along with communities of the different faiths
and cultures, the Hindu community will continue to play such a role.
The Hindu religion teaches norms and values that are universally shared, such as
peace and love towards others, as well as living in harmony among communities
and civilizations. In that regard, the Hindu community in Europe is vital in the
promotion of these values.
Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated by millions throughout the world
symbolising triumph of good over evil. It is a time of reflection and seeking peace
within. I pray that the lights of Diwali illuminate the lamp of love in your heart;
the lamp of abundance in your home; the lamp of compassion to serve others;
the lamp of knowledge to dispel the darkness of ignorance; and the lamp of
gratitude for the abundance that the Divine has bestowed on us.
May the glow of lights illuminate your life with happiness, prosperity and good
health. I pray that the light we celebrate shows us the way and leads us together
on the path of peace and social harmony through the values of humanity and
spiritual awakening.
Wishing you a very Happy Diwali.
H.E. Deo Saran,
Ambassador of the Republic of Fiji to Belgium and Head of Mission to the
European Union
May this celebration of Diwali further strengthen our resolve to create harmony
among the peoples. I wish you the very best.
Yuri O. Thamrin
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
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Message from the Chargé d'Affaires a.i.
I am delighted to learn that MEP Mr. Geoffrey Van Orden and the Hindu Forum
of Europe are jointly organizing Diwali (observed as Deepawali and/or Tihar in
Nepal) celebrations at the premises of the European Parliament. On this occasion,
I would like to extend my hearty felicitations and best wishes to all Hindus across
the world as well as the multicultural communities in Europe.
Dear Readers,
Deepawali is a festival of lights and colours. It is a celebration of victory of
truth and righteousness over evil and its manifestations of egoism and arrogance.
It is also an opportunity for us to communicate to the larger community with
the message of brotherhood, coexistence and harmony. In Nepal, Deepawali is
an occasion to worship Laxmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Equally
important is the 'family reunion' and exchanges of Tika, greetings and gifts,
in particular, between brothers and sisters during Bhaitika, the last day of the
festival.
Hindu Forum of Europe, along with members all round Europe are lobbying for
National recognition of Hindu Umbrella body in Europe, who will play a major
role in addressing issues of the communities with their Governments.
The celebrations such as the one at the European Parliament can be instrumental
for cross-cultural exchanges of ideas, experiences and practices among various
faiths and cultures. It is more so at present when the quintessential messages
of the eastern spirituality and philosophies, that find their expression including
through the festivals like Deepawali, have become all the more important in our
daily lives.
Congratulations to all the Dharmic Communities in Europe and may the community be empowered to attain massive leaps in all spheres of life, cultural harmony,
peace, brotherhood and community progress in the face of challenges of religious
intolerance and extremism.
Once again, I wish you all a very happy Deepawali !
Ghanshyam Bhandari,
Chargé d'Affaires a.i.
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Message from the President
HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
Hindu Forum of Europe conveys its good wishes to one and all on the auspicious
occasion of Diwali and its celebrations. Although Diwali is a festival of lights,
basically it is triumph over fear and darkness.
The celebration of Diwali in the Parliament is a reflection of the growing relevance of Hindu Communities all over Europe and UK, who contribute in a major
way to growing trade, business, education, science, medicine and socio-cultural
relations.
Let us all come together from various cultures, religions, nationalities and genders
in a spirit of celebration. Our vision and objectives are focussed on community
development and please feel free to contact us for any information or assistance.
May light and Good always prevail over you!
Happy Diwali!
Dr. Lakshmi Vyas,
President, Hindu Forum of Europe
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Message from the General Secretary
Last year we celebrated the first Diwali at the European Parliament and it was
impacted by the horrific terrorist attacks in Paris which had happened just 4 days
before. Those attacks obviously influenced our Celebration which became more a
moment to reflect on what had happened and send our prayers to all the families
of the victims.
Since then more terrorists attacks happened all over the world and some very
close to the EU Institutions in March of this year at the Brussels Airport and
Maalbeek Metro Station. Now more than ever politicians need to know that
security is not the only solution to stop terrorism and hatred. Much much more
has to be done to promote interfaith dialogue between communities. If a small
fraction of the budget for security was invested in promoting dialogue we will
be on the way to finding longer term solutions for a more socially cohesive and
violence free society. But even dialogue is not enough to fully stop hatred, anger,
violence, fear, envy, lust, greed and many more negative qualities that we all have
to one degree or another. The long term solution for a terrorist free world is
authentic spirituality.
In other words until everyone of us goes deeper into the spiritual tradition of
our choice and understands and practices it sincerely and seriously adopting its
values, ethics, teachings and practices we will be prone to get over whelmed by
the negative qualities that reside in all of us. In this time of political and religious
extremism and radicalisation the Hindu Forum of Europe stands by the moderate
and progressive political parties and religious communities. Thou the Hindu
Forum of Europe does not support any given political party it supports any party
that proposes or adopts policies on:
Respect and protection of the Environment and Animals;
Protection of Minorities;
Protection of Religious Freedom
More Equality and less Discrimination;
Interfaith Dialogue;
Universal Healthcare;
Education for all;
A more Ethical and Human centred Economy;
Defense, Application and Promotion the United Nations Universal Declaration
Of Human Rights, European Convention on Human Rights and the EU Charter
of Fundamental Rights.
Diwali is a time to Celebrate the Family and loving relationships but it is also a
time to reflect on Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and his return to Ayodhya
where the citizens awaited Him with lamps lighting the whole city. It is the
victory of good over evil. Darkness and Evil may seem to be very powerful at
moments but Light and Good will ultimately vanquish. Of course hatred and
violence are not easy to overcome but through steady spiritual progress and open
dialogue we can overcome some of the most difficult traumas, conflicts and differences. The message of Diwali goes beyond the Hindu Communities and Dharmic
Faiths like Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism and it reaches out to every Human
Being searching for goodness, love, respect, dignity, tolerance and spirituality.
Lets Celebrate Diwali in a spirit of inclusion, dialogue, cooperation, appreciation
and respect so that we may all learn to appreciate each other and become more
committed to our own faith.
Jai Sri Rama!
Martin Gurvich,
General Secretary, Hindu Forum of Europe
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
17
Message from our Spiritual Advisor
Message from our Spiritual Advisor
Dear Friends,
Dear Friends,
On behalf of ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Manor, I would like to extend to the members of the HFE my best wishes for an auspicious Diwali and a successful New
Year. This year I would like to share with you my acronym based on DIWALI:
Hare Krsna, Jaya Sri Rama and Happy Divali!
D – Determination: The 14 years of struggle Rama underwent reveals His determination to install the right value systems in the hearts of Ayodhya’s citizens.
May we all gain determination to succeed in all our endeavours.
I – Illuminate: The lights in every nook and corner of Ayodhya indicated the joy
of regaining a king and queen possessing the light of knowledge and clarity. May
the light of knowledge inspire our activities over the coming year.
On this sacred occasion of Divali we celebrate the festival of lights. And as in all
festivals, the symbolism of lighting lamps should not go unmentioned. What is
the significance of that symbolism? The Vedas enjoin us to come out of darkness
and into light. Here the metaphorical significance of darkness is ignorance and
that of light, transcendental knowledge.
W – Winning: By his actions, Bharata showed that winning hearts is more
important than winning thrones. May we all be inspired to prioritise deep relationships over the mere acquisition of resources.
Knowledge begins by understanding the difference between mater and spirit. To
know who were are. It means understanding both our eternal spiritual identity—which put in practice leads to eternal happiness, and it means understanding
the temporary bodily identity—which leads us to sorrow and repeated birth. Our
world today is deeply immersed in the ignorance of bodily identification, as a
result of which we are plagued with, among other things, the ills of consumerism, war, racism and global warming.
A – Accommodate: When Rama was returning to Ayodhya, all the monkeys
wanted to join him. Sensing Rama’s desire, the Pushpak Vimana or Airplane
expanded to accommodate so many. May we all extend ourselves to welcome more
members to the Europe-wide Hindu community.
May the light of knowledge from the sacred texts like the Bhagavad-gita truly
illuminate the dark world in which we live and may it inaugurate an age of real
happiness based on the light of spiritual knowledge. Then mankind can properly
understand its common identity as children and servants of one supreme Lord.
L – Let go: Rama did not tolerate any insult to Keikeyi and made sure that no one
referred to the past even subtly and sarcastically. May we let go of the lapses of
others and radiate love and compassion to all.
Hare Krsna.
Your servant
Sivarama Swami
I – Indebtedness: During the coronation ceremony, Sita was crying in remembrance of Jatayu’s sacrifice. May we be grateful while celebrating, knowing that
our success is due to sacrifices of many others.
Srutidharma das, Temple President Bhaktivedanta Manor London
Chairman of the I foundation Education Board
Secretary and Trustee of Lotus trust
Governor to Avanti schools
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
19
29 October 2016
Message from our Spiritual Advisor
HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Message from The Brahma Kumaris,
Diwali is the most joyous festival in the Hindu calendar. It is also celebrated by
Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. However for all, the significance of Diwali is
one: that it is possible for good to triumph over evil, for suffering to leave our
world and for there to be peace.
The Supreme Being, the Protector of the world, is the One who can remove
suffering. For this we need to remember just one thing; that our original state of
being is peace and we will return to that state when we connect with the Supreme
Being with our minds and hearts.
During Diwali night, Shri Lakshmi is believed to circle the earth. A symbol of
prosperity, Shri Lakshmi is decorated with garlands and invited into the home. In
a world where material wealth is worshipped, what should we ask Shri Lakshmi
for? For the wealth of virtues. When we use virtues in our lives we become
generous hearted. We forget and forgive so that nothing stands in the way of
our connection with God. We can then become instruments to bring God’s love
and light to the world. When virtues circle the earth even physical wealth will be
shared and no child or adult will go hungry or remain without shelter.
Let us celebrate a Happy Diwali that brings health, happiness and prosperity to all.
Sister Jayanti
European Director, Brahma Kumaris
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
HH Mahant Swami Maharaj
Namaste
and Jai Swaminarayan.
Namaste and
Jai Swaminarayan,
Festive greetings from all your friends at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in
Festive greetings
all your friends at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in
Neasden, from
London.
Neasden, London.
We are delighted to hear that Diwali is being celebrated in a special way this year
in Brussels. Hindus from around Europe will be attending along with MEPs
delighted
to hear
that
Diwali
is being celebrated in a special way this
representing
several
European
countries.
We are
year in Brussels. Hindus from around Europe will be attending along with MEPs
At a place which houses the spirit of Diwali – working for peace, harmony and
representing
several
European
countries.
greater
understanding
among
the people of Europe – such a celebration is indeed
very fitting. Our late spiritual leader His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj – who
passed away
in August
at the age
94 – worked
tirelesslyfor
to cultivate
which
houses
the spirit
of ofDiwali
– working
peace, peace,
harmony
love, understanding and goodwill amongst diverse communities.
At a place
and
greater understanding among the people of Europe – such a celebration is indeed
behalf
of our
spiritual leader
leader His
Holiness
Mahant
Swami Maharaj
and Maharaj
our
very fitting.OnOur
late
spiritual
His
Holiness
Pramukh
Swami
–
fellowship of devotees in Europe, we pray to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and
who passedentire
away
in
August
at
the
age
of
94
–
worked
tirelessly
to
cultivate
peace,
all our Hindu deities, sages, teachers and elders: May they bless this event so that
love, understanding
goodwill
diverse
communities.
it inspires usand
towards
a world amongst
of peace based
on mutual
understanding and
cooperation, where everyone’s right to follow their chosen path to spiritual
is accepted and respected.
On behalf elevation
of our spiritual
leader His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and our
entire fellowship
of
devotees
inbest
Europe,
pray
to Bhagwan Swaminarayan
Yours sincerely, with very
wishes we
for the
celebrations,
and all our Hindu deities, sages, teachers and elders: May they bless this event
so that it inspires us towards a world of peace based on mutual understanding
and cooperation, where everyone’s right to follow their chosen path to spiritual
Yogvivekdas
elevation isSadhu
accepted
and respected.
Head Sadhu
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, UK & Europe
Yours sincerely, with very best wishes for the celebrations.
Sadhu Yogvivekdas, Head Sadhu
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, UK & Europe
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Message from our Sponsor
Message from our Sponsor
Namaste All and Happy Diwali,
Diwali Message
The word "namaste" means that I am a soul and I see you all as a soul. It is a
fitting greeting be- cause Diwali is a celebration of Human Goodness and Values.
As such, this celebration of Diwali in EEC Parliament is a befitting occasion for
all of us, coming from different parts of Europe to come together and unite in
celebrating each others differences and similarities.
Diwali is a special celebration where we take time for what is really important in
life—each other. Through gifts, delicious foods and especially sweets, we express
our love and gratitude to each other. In coming together to light lamps we share
the warmth and equality of our souls with each other. And as we watch with
excitement the diverse and colourful fireworks shooting into the sky, we are
brought closer together as one great human family.
Golden Tours Foundation, is privileged to host this event and we look forward to
working with Hindu Council of Europe and MEP in Brussels to make The Hindu
voice, a voice of Compassion, Contribution and Cooperation.
Take time for Diwali. Take time for each other.
Happy Diwali from all of us at Bhaktivedanta Manor
Best Wishes
Nitin Palan and Kamu Palan
Directors
Golden Tours Foundation, Hindu Matters in Britain,
India1914 - Remembering Indian Soldiers
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
Gauri das
Managing Director, Bhaktivedanta Manor
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PONTIFICAL COUNCIL FOR INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE
Christians and Hindus:
Promoting hope among families
Message for the feast of Deepavali
2016
Vatican City
Dear Hindu Friends,
1. On behalf of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, we offer our
best wishes as you celebrate Deepavali on 30 October 2016. May your celebrations around the world deepen your familial bonds, and bring joy and peace to
your homes and communities.
2. The health of society depends on our familial bonds and yet we know that
today the very notion of family is being undermined by a climate that relativizes its essential significance and value. So too, family life is often disrupted by
harsh realities such as conflicts, poverty and migration, which have become all
too commonplace throughout the world. There are, however, strong signs of
renewed hope due to the witness of those who hold fervently to the enduring
importance of marriage and family life for the wellbeing of each person and
society as a whole. With this abiding respect for the family, and keenly aware
of the global challenges daily confronting us, we wish to offer a reflection on
how we, Christians and Hindus together, can promote hope in families, thus
making our society ever more humane.
children, led by the noble example of their parents and elders, are formed in
the values that help them develop into good and responsible human beings.
Too often, however, the optimism and idealism of our youth are diminished
by circumstances that affect families. It is especially important, therefore, that
parents, together with the wider community, instill in their children a sense
of hope by guiding them towards a better future and the pursuit of the good,
even in the face of adversity.
4. Providing a formation and education in hope is thus a task of paramount
importance for families (cf. POPE FRANCIS, Apostolic Exhortation Amoris
Laetitia, 274-275), as it reflects the divine nature of mercy which embraces
the disheartened and gives them purpose. Such an education in hope encourages the young themselves to reach out, in charity and service, to others in
need, and so become a light for those in darkness.
5. Families, therefore, are meant to be a "workshop of hope" (POPE FRANCIS,
Address at the Prayer Vigil for the Festival of Families. Philadelphia_ 26
September 2015), where children learn from the example of their parents
and family members, and experience the power of hope in strengthening
human relationships, serving those most forgotten in society and overcoming
the injustices of our day. Saint John Paul II said that the future of humanity
passes by way of the family- (Apostolic Exhortation Familiaris Consortio, 86).
If humanity is to prosper and live in peace, then families must embrace this
work of nurturing hope and encouraging their children to be heralds of hope
to the world.
6. As Christians and Hindus, may we join all people of good will in supporting
marriage and family life, and inspiring families to be schools of hope. May
we bring hope's light to every corner of our world, offering consolation and
strength to all in need.
We wish you all a joyful Deepavali!
Jean-Louis Cardinal Tauran, President
Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot, MCCJ, Secretary
3. We know that the family is "humanity's first school" and that parents are the
"primary and principal" educators of their children. It is in the family that
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25
Message from the Moderator
Message from our Academic Advisor
Dear Readers,
Greetings on this important festival of Diwali – the Festival of Lights
The quote of Mawlana Jalal ad-din Rumi “The lamps are many but the light is
one” is a much loved quote of many. A quote that resonates with the concept of
Diwali, which is a reminder to us all that people are many but humanity is one,
an integral element of Hinduism with its emphasis on Dharma; duty towards the
whole of creation.
Diwali is about the balance of life between prosperity and right conduct – dharma
in Sanskrit.
We take great joy in joining the Hindu Forum of Europe and the other Dharmic
faiths that are celebrating Diwali by opening our hearts to this truth and celebrate
this unity of humanity each candle we light.
Diwali reminds us of the conflict between Rama – the righteous king – and
Ravana. These embody the conflict between virtue – balance – and wickedness –
imbalance.
In Hinduism, we do not encounter the antithesis between enjoyment and religion
that is often found in Western traditions. In Hindu thought the idea is to find the
right balance in life. This sense of balance is revealed in the Diwali festivities.
May the light that is wisdom be with us all during Diwali and for evermore.
Yours Sincerely,
Rev. Dr. Thomas Wipf,
Moderator
It is natural and proper to seek prosperity and pleasure in life but this should
not be pursued at the expense of dharma – natural balance. And so, on this day,
we seek guidance through the difficult choices to be made in seeking prosperity.
We pledge to avoid any path to prosperity that involves dishonesty and causing
suffering to others. And we aim to use at least a portion of our prosperity for the
benefit of others.
This is a challenge to us all and on Diwali we seek the light to show us the way.
Happy Diwali!
Shaunaka Rishi Das
Director, Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies
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27
Message from the Prime Minister
Message from Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
I am delighted to send my very best wishes to everyone celebrating Diwali,
a festival which holds such significance for so many people.
It is a pleasure to see the Hindu Forum of Europe celebrating Diwali at the
European Parliament.
Indeed, right across the world, lights decorate the streets, flowers adorn homes,
treats are served and presents exchanged — all marking the triumph of light over
darkness. But the festival of lights is not just relevant for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and
Buddhists. It is relevant to all of us, those of all faiths and none. We can all learn
from the example set by Lord Rama, whose return from exile is marked by these
five holy days.
It is a tribute to the wonderful contribution Hindus make, not just in the United
Kingdom, but right across the continent, that an organisation such as the Hindu
Forum of Europe exists, playing a strategic role in raising the profile of this
unique Dharmic community. The Hindu Forum of Europe can be proud of being
a body where European and Hindu values merge seamlessly, with the precept of
peaceful coexistene at its core.
That story teaches us about building strong families and communities, shunning
wrongdoing and evil, and choosing the right path. It promotes the values of
service, responsibility, unity and tolerance. We need those values more than ever
as we build a country that works for everyone — a country where no matter what
your faith, your beliefs or your background, you can reach your full potential.
We should all marvel at the value that the two million strong Hindus bring to our
nations. Hinduism is considered a collection of faiths, yet Hindus can be categorized together by features and skills that transcend their religion. Whether it is
through their business acumen; bringing us inspiring cultural ingredients such
as yoga; or a willingness to build bridges across different communities; whatever
nation they decide to settle in, their ability to speak the collective language of
friendship is unrivaled.
In Britain's Indian communities, we can see the good that can be done when
people's talents are unleashed. I think of all those running their own businesses,
taking risks and working hard so that they can provide for their families and take
on staff.
I will be so proud to highlight the achievements of British Indians when I make
my first official visit to India as Prime Minister at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
So as friends and families come together in reflection and celebration, let me wish
you all a Shubh Deepawali.
And of course, there is Diwali – a celebration that we can all enjoy. The message
of good over evil tells us we need to know of the Hindi community’s efforts
towards diplomacy and integration. On 9 November, let the diyya you light, be
the brightest ever.
I wish everyone at the Hindi Forum of Europe a very enjoyable Diwali and hope
their good work continues.
Theresa May, Prime Minister UK
Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth
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Hindu Forum of Britain
Hindu Forum of Belgium
Proud to be British Proud to be Hindu
Message from the President
Message from the President
Namaste,
Dear Readers,
Diwali Subhakamana and Nutan Varshabhinandan to everyone from the Hindu
Forum of Europe.
On behalf of the Hindu Communities of Belgium I would like to wish all the
Hindu Communities of Europe a very Happy Diwali and a Prosperous New Year.
As they say we live in interesting times. The 21st Century brings incredible
challenges ranging from ramifications of climate change, global financial unease
and the scourge of terrorism in all its forms. Add to this slavery in all its forms,
coerced and forced faith conversions, rights of indigenous people, poverty, illiteracy and sexual grooming to name but a few, focusses our minds to our common
humanity and the need for the world for Dharmic values is even greater.
The Belgian Hindu Communities are working with the Belgian Government to
get Hinduism recognized as an official Religion. This will allow the Hindu Temples and Centers to get several benefits that the Belgian Government gives to the
recognized religions in Belgium like, salaries for priests, maintenance of religious
buildings, teaching Hinduism in public Schools, time of public radio and television, chaplaincy in Prisons, Hospitals and Military, invitations to official meetings
with the Government and public celebrations. We hope that by next year we will
be getting a subsidy from the Government to be able to organize ourselves better
and work toward full recognition.
Diwali brings light to values such as Satya, Dharma, Shanti, Prema and Ahimsa.
Meaning Truth, Righteousness, Peace, Love and Non-violence. These eternal
values of Sanathan Dharma are the very foundations for peace in the world.
Diwali is a time to rejoice the triumph of good over evil. It is equally a time
when the world is reminded that ultimately, only Dharma can survive. The Hindu
dictum ‘Dharmo rakshati rakshitaha’ is even more telling now (Dharma protects
those who protect it).
Mrs Trupti Patel,
President, Hindu Forum of Europe
We are very happy to have so many Hindu Leaders come from all over Europe
to Brussels for the Diwali Event at the European Parliament. We need to stand
together to get Governments all over Europe acknowledge the contributions of
the Hindu Communities to the European Project.
May Knowledge and Wisdom Prevail, May Good Vanquish all kinds of Evils that
exist in the world and inside our own hearts. May Lord Rama’s virtues permeate
our being so that we can be part of the solution to making this world a better
place to live in.
Lord Rama Ki Jay!
Anil Chunivan,
President Hindu Forum of Belgium
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Hindu Forum of Sweden
Message from the President
Message from the President
Dear Readers,
Dear Readers,
The main message of the festival of Diwali is the Victory of Light over darkness.
Light is significant in Hinduism because it signifies goodness. Today, Diwali has
become an international festival, regardless of religion, mainly because of its
metaphorical message of the victory of light over darkness and evil. We, the
Hindu Forum of Sweden are proud to be a part of the celebration of Diwali at
the European Parliament.
Divali is the festival of light which symbolises the victory of good over bad, light
over dark, knowledge over ignorance and clarity of mind and heart. In The
Netherlands we have a saying: “ Better the world and start with yourself ”. And
that to me is how karma works. So in regards to Divali, for me Divali means
gaining clarity, getting rid of angry feelings, getting rid of fear and ignorance,
getting rid of any form of jealousy and trying to keep my ego at bay. Divali is
about getting to know the true identity of others, loving others and respecting
others as you yourself would love to be loved and acknowledged.
As we all celebrate this holy occasion during this festive season, we wish the
happiest moments including peace, prosperity and good health that the Devine
Light of Diwali can bring in the lives of all human beings.
We wish you all a very Happy Diwali.
Chitra Paul
President, Hindu Forum of Sweden
In these dark days where wars are waged, people live in fear, societies polarise and
people finding themselves on opposite sides of “good”, it is important that we all
remember that we share this world together and that we have to make it together.
So Divali is not about cleaning your house it is about cleaning your heart and
mind in order to find the power to shine a light on those who need it, to find the
light in yourself to love others in stead of fearing them, to find the light energy
to go against the fear of the masses and take a stand for humanity, nature and the
world we share.
May everybody find the light in themselves so we as one world can shine brighter
then ever before.
Subh Divali
Met vriendelijke groet, With kind regards,
Desh Ramnath
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Federación Hindú de España
Message from the President
Message from Secretary for Foreign Affairs
Om, Asato ma sad gamaya, Tamaso ma jyotir gamaya, Mrityor ma amritam gamaya
“Take me from unreal to real, take from darkness to light, take me from death to
inmortality”
Om Shanti Shanti Shanti
Let us light a candle this Diwali;
which takes away the darkness of the earth;
a candle of love and compassion;
a candle which truly lights our hearts.
Let us exchange sweets this Diwali;
which make this diwali truly special;
sweets of harmony and brotherhood;
let us offer our prayers to Bhagavan Sri Rama this Diwali;
and thank Him for all His blessings;
prayers to remove pain from everyone’s life;
prayers to be pure, honest and humble.
Dear readers,
The Italian Hindu Union - Sanatana Dharma Samgha wishes to convey the best
wishes for a prosperous and auspicious Diwali to all.
May this festival ignite the light of spiritual values within the whole of humanity,
casting away the shadows of ignorance and bringing about the radiance of Truth.
"O seeker, know the true nature of your soul,
and identify yourself with it completely.
O Lord, (may we attain) the everlasting consciousness
of Supreme Light and Joy.
In Spain we are moving slowly but with firm pace to obtain the official recognition
by the spanish goverment, so we can get the same rights and status than other
religious groups. The Hindu Federation of Spain wants to be the voice of more
than 50.000 hindus (both indian origins and spanish) living in the country. So we
humbly request to all Hindu Forum Members to give their blessings so we can
continue with the great task of serving the Sanatana Dharma in Spain as well
supporting HFE in all Europe.
May we resolve to dedicate our life
Let us make Diwali celebration in the EU Parlament a yearly event and that every
years goes bigger and bigger so we can share our culture and spiritual values with
dignitaries, politicians and one we can take it to the streets of Brusells and other
major cities of Europe. An Occasion to Celebrate Victory over Defeat, Light over
Darkness, Awareness over Ignorance, An Occasion to Celebrate Life, May this
Auspicious Occasion of Diwali Light up your life with Happiness, Joy and Peace.
Troiano Gianluca
to the service of humankind,
and uplift them to Divinity." - (Yajur Veda)
Thank you very much.
Secretary for Foreign Affairs
Italian Hindu Union - Sanatana Dharma Samgha
Shubh Diwali, Happy Diwali
Krishna Kripa Dasa (Juan Carlos Ramchandani),
Presidente Federación Hindú de España
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I t a l ia
Hungarian Society For Krishna Consciousness
C o n g r e g a z io n e Italiana Per La Cosci enza di Krishna
Message from the Vice President
Dear Readers,
Dear Readers,
The incomparable amount of spiritual, ethical and social knowledge that originates in ancient Indian heritage is positively influencing the lives of an increasing
number of people in the entire world.
Worship, knowledge, charity – the way to bring light into our lives,
This deep wisdom helps us to rediscover universal truths, forgotten in our frenetic
materialistic society and to reconnect with the divine within us. Coming back
to our true selves and re-establishing the eternal relationship that unite us with
Krishna (God) allows sensations that seem new to the lost human soul but are
ancient for the eternal spiritual being to fill the heart, pacify the turbulent mind,
clarify the present and offer hope for a better future.
Diwali is a celebration of Lord Ramachandra’s return to the sacred city of
Ayodhya where he was received with thousands of candles and torches after
having won the furious battle against the evil Ravana, whose goal was to create a
godless society.
It celebrates the victory of light over dark, the return of God into the heart of all
people, the joyful union of all living beings possible only when Divine love guides
our actions and sentiments. Diwali is a celebration of the inner illumination of
true love and peace.
Let Shri Ramachandra illuminate your spiritual consciousness, let Shri Krishna
reside forever in your heart.
Happy Diwali!
Parabhakti dasa,
ISKCON Communications Italy Director
ISKCON Italy Vice President
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Message from the President
HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
The Hungarian Society for Krishna Consciousness, which has recently become a
member of the Hindu Forum of Europe, was registered as a religious organisation in Hungary after the change of the political system in 1989. After the period
of dictatorships and communism it was the first spiritual movement that could fill
the void in the hearts of the people. The world famous Krishna Valley, a spiritual
centre and the largest ecovillage in Europe was created following his vision, and
it is one of the prime tourist destinations in Hungary, attracting over 30 thousand
visitors every year, among them thousands of Krishna Conscious pilgrims.
Demonstrating practical sustainability, the 700 acre organic farm is providing a
healthy alternative for Europe and the world.
Diwali is the Hindu New Year festival, the festival of lights, the motto of which
is knowing and improving the self. When someone is striving to attain eternal
values and God’s universal goodness, his/her heart will light up. The Krishna
Consciousness movement promotes peace by representing the message of the
Supreme Person: we are all spirit souls, different from our bodies, and although
there may be differences as to our role in society, as living beings we are all equal,
having the same rights and duties. By understanding that, in fact, we are non-different from one another, by understanding that happiness can only be attained by
reviving our eternal relationship with Krishna, the myriads of conflicts poisoning
the world become pointless and the competition so characteristic of our times is
eliminated and a life without violence can be established.
The Diwali celebration at the European Parliament is a wonderful symbol of
acceptance and therefore, of peace, which is increasingly called for in our world
of exacerbating tensions.
Radha Krishna das,
Hungarian Society For Krishna Consciousness
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II EUROPEAN YOGA CONGRESS – BELGIUM
Durbuy – Radhadesh / Brussels – European Parliament
Portuguese Yoga Confederation
Message from the President
May the Lights of Lord Ráma and Sítá Deví, the Strength of Lord Krishna, and
the Power of the Mahá Shakti / Mahá Lakshmi Enlighten and command this new
cycle and all Humanity.
May the Force and the Discernment of the constant practice of the Yoga Darshana
restore the Love to the hearts of Human Beings, and the consequent Solidarity,
and may it also help to the Enlightenment of the sincere practitioners, so that
all decisions are always made using diplomacy, and using the Light of Wisdom,
which should always preside to all resolutions.
These are the wishes of the President of the Portuguese Yoga Confederation,
who is also the President of the European Yoga Confederation.
Om Shánti, may there be Peace.
H. H. Jagat Guru Amrta Súryánanda Mahá Rája
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
From May 27th to May 31st 2016, Belgium was the Country hosted the European
Confederation of Yoga’s II European Yoga Congress, an event that brought
together more than 500 Yoga Teachers and Yoga Masters from all over Europe.
The Congress was divided into two parts, one at Radhadesh, Durbuy, Belgium a
major Temple and Center of ISKCON (Hare Krishna Movement) and the other
on the 31st of May, at the European Parliament in Brussels, where the solemn
closing session of this Congress was held, hosted by MEP Carlos Zorrinho from
the European Parliamentary S&D Group (Alliance of Progressive Socialists and
Democrats Group of the European Parliament), a session where the invited Yoga
Masters had the opportunity to speak about "Social and Ecological Awareness,
Respect for Life and Inter-Religious Dialogue, Personal Development, Yoga and
Health Public Health - Because" Life is Sacred ".
It is in an environment of magical beauty, quietude, and enchantment, among the
lush Nature that surrounds the Chateau de Petite Somme, and under the theme
"The Relevance of Yoga for the European Society and for Peace", that Yoga
Masters from across Europejoined together, from Portugal, Spain, France, UK,
Belgium, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Greece, Latvia to Russia, in
an intense weekend of Lectures, Workshops and Yoga Classes.
Were present: the International Society for Krishna Consciousness - ISKCON
/ Bhaktivedanta College (Belgium), represented by H. H. Yadunandana Svámin
Maharaja; the Portuguese Yoga Confederation (Portugal), represented by
its President H. H. Jagat Guru Amrta Súryánanda Mahá Rája; Yoga Vidya
(Germany), represented by its President Master Sukadev Bretz; the Yoga School
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Sanatana Dharma (Spain), represented by its President Maestro Madhavacharya;
the Spanish Yoga Federation Sat Sanga (Spain), represented by its President
Maestro Surabhi and by Maestra Naya; the Sulislaw Palace (Poland), represented
by Master Chandra Bhandari, the Russian Yoga Federation (Russia), represented
by its Vice President Tatyana Konstantinova; the London Sevashram Sangha
(United Kingdom), represented by its Spiritual Leader Nirliptánanda Jí; the Yoga
Center Iyengar from Paris (France), represented by its Director Shrí Charan
Faeq Biria; the Association of Hungarian Yoga Teachers (Hungary), represented
by its President Sarasvatí Aranka Keseru; the Yoga-Súrya International (Czech
Republic), represented by its Founder Master Veda Chaitanya; The Lusa Yoga
Federation (Portugal) represented by its President Sváminí Chandra Shakti Deví
Jyotishmati; the Centre Santosha (Belgium), represented by its President Thierry
Van Brabant; the Paul Stradins Clinical University Hospital (Latvia), represented
by Prof. Valdis Pirags and the Iberian Yoga Confederation, represented by its
President Jagat Guru Amrta Súryánanda Mahá Rája.
The event also counted with the presence of the representative of the Ambassador of India to Belgium, Ankan Banerjee; of the Hindu Forum of Europe, represented by Shrí Mahaprabhu dasa, and of the Secretary General of the Quality
Council of India, Dr. Ravi P. Singh, who brought India’s perspective about the
Training of Yoga Teachers.
Having the idyllic Radhadesh as scenario, and reflecting on the troubled times we
are living in, in which Europe is fighting against the constant threat of terrorism,
the Members of the European Yoga Confederation wanted to make their voices
heard and say to Europe that Yoga is an effective means, and a path, to achieve
peace.
on May 31st at the European Parliament. This petition was presented by the
President of the European Yoga Confederation - HH Sat Guru Amrta Súryánanda
Maharaja to the MEP Carlos Zorrinho, fom the European S&D Group, who, as
host of this initiative in the European Parliament, highlighted in his speech how
fundamental "the peaceful revolution" proposed by European Yoga Confederation
is, stressing the importance "of equality and dignity" in "building a better world."
The petition proposes 4 points:
1. That the European Parliament makes the Solstice, June 21st, the 1st Global
Day of Humanity, in its Parliament, and then in the United Nations, as a
celebration of the human DNA and of a Fraternal Global Awareness;
2. The integration of the traditional Yoga (from India) in the school´s curricula
of all European Countries that so desire, making Yoga a supporting training
to Traditional Education, since Yoga promotes, among other things, Health,
self-demand, fighting stress, increasing vitality, concentration, ideals, and the
respect for Life;
3. That the European Parliament attains an effective and fair Equality for
Women in Europe, without hesitations, serving as example, inspiring the
whole planet in this area;
4. That the European Parliament ensures European policies, that clearly aim to
integrate Russia in Europe as an European country, which it unequivocally
is, using precise diplomatic and cooperation-based policies that eliminate
unnecessary tensions, walking towards real Peace, Peace is that should be
everlasting and so necessary.
The Lifestyle that the Yogic Philosophy promotes, calls for non-violence, for the
respect for life, for diversity, Tolerance and Interreligious understanding, and fair
equality for women. At the same time the continued practice of Yoga promotes
public health, lowering public spending in this area, decreases absenteeism,
increases labor and school performances, increases the ability to work as a
team, creativity, enhances solidarity, and gives the practitioner a perspective of
Human-Cosmic integration.
These were some of the arguments presented by the Member Countries of the
European Yoga Confederation, who in the Plenary session of the 2nd European
Yoga Congress, signed a petition, delivered at the closing session of the Congress,
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41
SURYANAMASKARA
AND YOGA
By Lakshmi Vyas
This is the IYENGA Yoga style which focusses on perfection of asanas
for maximum benefit. One can use props like brick, belt, chair, bolsters
and others devised by Padma Vibhushan Guruji B.K.S. Iyengar.
The suryanamaskar cycle presented here is the basic one. The cyclic
asanas are repetitive starting asana 1 to 10. Begin slowly and then
increase the speed as you gain mastery over it. The advanced method
of suryanamaskar will be presented in the next issue.
SURYANAMASKARA CYCLE
Sun Salutations, or Surya Namaskar, are traditionally performed in the morning
to greet the new day. The sequence of 10 postures can be a complete practice in
itself, or can prepare you for an advanced asana routine. Sun Salutes are often
performed in sets of 6, but if you are new to the practice it's wise to begin with 2
or 3. Each time you flow through this sequence, synchronize your breath with the
movements of your body. With practice you can do 12 sets. Advanced practitioners
do 25 to 50. Given below are the twelve names of Sun God which is recited along
with the salutations.
‘Om Mitraya Namaha’
‘Om Ravaye Namaha’
‘Om Suryaye Namaha’
‘Om Bhanave Namaha’
‘Om Khagaya Namaha’
‘Om Pusne Namaha’
‘Om Hiranyagarbhaye Namaha’
‘Om Marichaye Namaha’
‘Om Adityaye Namaha’
‘Om Savitre Namaha’
‘Om Akaye Namaha’
‘Om Bhaskaraya Namaha’
There are specific benefits Surya Namaskar offers. Practicing these regularly burns
more calories than owing to the speed, improved levels of circulation, stronger
digestive and respiratory systems, and higher energy levels. Daily practice, eventually can lead to weight loss.
The fast movements and quick change in position ensure freedom of movement,
creating agility and flexibility and improving blood circulation. The dull brain becomes
active and the brooding mind gets refreshed.
To master these movements one should engage in standing asanas, forward bends,
and few backward bends. Although one can practice this, it is advisable to learn it
with an experienced teacher.
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
1. SAMASTITI AND NAMASKARASAN
Samastiti: To begin, stand with feet together, knees tight, chest
forward, arm extended downwards. Distribute your weight evenly over
both feet. Establish a slow, steady rhythm for your breath.
Namaskarasana: Inhale, fold the palms into Namaskara position in
front of the sternum.
2. URDHVA HASTASANA
Urdhva Hastasana: Inhale and stretch your arms up overhead into
Urdhva Hastasana (Upward Hand Pose).
3. UTTANASANA
Uttanasna: As you exhale, hollow out your naval area and fold into
Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend), lower your arms and trunk down
and keep the palms by the sides of feet and open your fingers. Keep
your legs firmly footed.
4. ADHO MUKHA SVANASAHA
Adho Mukha Svanasana: Downward Dog pose - Inhale, lower the hips
towards floor, raise the chest up. Place your hand forward and ground
down through your hands and feet as you lengthen your spine. Remain
here for couples of seconds.
5. CHATURANGA DANDASANA
Chaturanga Dandasana: Exhale and lower the chest towards the floor,
keeping the pelvis, thighs and knees above the floor. (Four-Limbed Staff
Pose) Raise your chest and look up.
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6. URDHVA MUKHA SVANASANA
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana: Inhale , raise the chest, carve your chest
forward into (Upward- Facing Dog) Pull your shoulders back and open
your collar bones.
7. ADHO MUKHA SVANASAHA
Downward Dog pose: Inhale, lower the hips towards floor, raise the
chest up. Place your hand forward and ground down through your
hands and feet as you lengthen your spine. Remain here for couples of
seconds.
8. UTTANASANA
Uttanasna: As you exhale, hollow out your naval area and fold into
Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend), lower your arms and trunk down
and keep the palms by the sides of feet and open your fingers. Keep
your legs firmly footed.
9. URDHVA HASTASANA
Urdhva Hastasna: Inhale, reaching your arms out (upward) wide to your
sides and coming to stand through a straight back. Feel a renewed
sense of energy as you draw your arms overhead into Urdhva Hastasana.
10 NAMASKARASANA
Namaskarasana: Inhale, fold the palms into Namaskara position in
front of the sternum.
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
The Word “Hindu”
What is
Hinduism?
By Mahaprabhu das (Martin Gurvich)
Hinduism is the oldest of all religions and yet endures today as a healthy, colorful
and exuberant tradition.
Other religions have all been founded by individuals, but Hinduism is not based on
the teachings of any one single person. Before any prophet was born, the Sanatana
Dharma was there. — Swami Rama Thirtha (1873-1906)
Scholars suggest that the term “Hindu” was first used around the 8th century CE,
by Persian invaders to refer to the people on the far side of the River Indus. These
early connotations weren’t specifically religious but more cultural, political and
geographical. Only later, when outsiders (first Muslims and later Christians) tried
to impose their own doctrines, did the “Hindus” and outsiders try to define the
religious traditions of India as a separate autonomous whole, a religion similar to
other world faiths. Many scholars prefer to call Hinduism “a family of religions” with
each member unique but bearing distinctive family features; or an “umbrella-term”
covering different philosophical schools of thought and systems of belief. Unlike
most world religions it has no single founder, no one scripture, no common creed
and no universally-accepted code of conduct. The common denominator to all the
traditions within Hinduism is the acceptance of the Vedas as revealed scriptures.
Indeed according to the Supreme Court of India Hinduism was legally defined in
1966 primarily as “Acceptance of the Vedas with reverence as the highest authority
in religious and philosophical matters”. (Buddhism and Jainism though born in India
are not included within the numerous varieties of Hindu doctrines and practices
chiefly because both these traditions rejected the supreme authority of the Vedas)
The word Hindu and Hinduism, though very practical and convenient for Scholars,
outsiders and even its followers, are nowhere to be found in any of the ancient
Vedic scriptures written in the Sanskrit language, so perhaps a more appropriate
way to refer to the different “Hindu” traditions could be “Vedic” traditions.
Vedic Scriptures
Hinduism has no single scripture but many. They include the Vedas and their
corollaries sometimes called collectively “the Vedic scriptures” written in the
Sanskrit language. There are two main divisions:
• Shruti (that which has been heard) is canonical, consisting of revelation and
unquestionable truth, and is considered eternal. It refers mainly to the Vedas
themselves.
It has intimate links with India and Nepal, but its influence visibly extends throughout South East Asia to countries like Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Bangladesh, Pakistan,
Indonesia, Singapore, Bhutan, Indonesia-Bali etc. It has in recent times reached all
corners of the world through immigration as well as through adoption by millions
of persons of different nationalities, religions and cultures of one or many aspects
of Hindu culture. Hinduism is conspicuous through its art, food, dress, music and
philosophy. It is classified as one of the main world religions with over 1.2 Billion
follwer. It has also been the source of other Eastern traditions such as Buddhism,
Jainism and Sikhism.
Hinduism was organized for peaceful and harmonious coexistence, not for
continued confrontation with external enemies in the shape of unbelievers. It is
no accident of history that, though Hinduism knew internal feuds like any social
polity, it never crossed its borders to wage wars against people simply because they
worshiped different Gods. — Ram Swarup (1920-1998), foremost spokesperson of
Hindu spirituality and culture in India
47
• Smriti (that which has been remembered) is supplementary and may change
over time. It is authoritative only to the extent that it conforms to the bedrock of
Shruti
There are different opinions about the relative validity and importance of each.
Some Hindus stress the foundational importance of Shruti, whereas others say that
in making truths accessible, Smriti is more important today.
The Vedas are divided into 4:
1. The Rig Veda is the most important and the oldest and it is divided into 10
books with a total of 1028 hymns in praise of various deities. It also contains
the famous Gayatri mantra and the prayer called the Purusha Sukta (the story
of Primal Man).
2. The Yajur Veda is a priestly handbook for use in the performance of yajnas
(sacrifices).
3. The Sama Veda consists of chants and melodies to be sung during worship and
performance of yajna.
4. The Atharva Veda contains hymns, mantras and incantations, largely outside
the scope of yajna.
Within each of these 4 books there are 4 types of composition or divisions:
Within the category of Smriti there are 4 main subcategories:
The Samhitas are literally “collections”, in this case of hymns and mantras.
The Brahmanas are prose manuals of ritual and prayer for guiding priests. They tend
to explain the Samhitas.
The Aranyakas are literally “forest books” for hermits and saints. They are philosophical treatises.
The Upanishads are the books of philosophy and are also called “Vedanta”, the end
or conclusion of the Vedas.
There are also 2 important bodies of supplementary literature, related closely to the
Vedas themselves:
1. The Vedangas which expound the sciences required to understand and apply
the Vedas:
• Kalpa: Ritual detail
• Siksha: Pronounciation
• Vyakarana: Grammar
• Nirukti: Etymology
• Chandas: Meter
• Jyotisha: Astronomy/Astrology
2. The Upavedas (usually considered Smrti) which deal with 4 traditional arts and
sciences:
•
•
•
•
48
Ayur-veda: Medicine
Gandharva-veda: Music and dance
Dhanur-veda: Military
Shilpa-veda: Architecture
HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
The Itihasas include “histories” and great epics like the Mahabharata (110.000
verses) and the Ramayana, which are the most popular texts for Hindus. The
Mahabharata includes the Bhagavad Gita (700 verses) which is a philosophical
Smriti text and the most widely read book by Hindus. (It comes closest to what the
Bible is for Christians and the Koran for Muslims).
The Puranas include 18 Maha (great) Puranas and many Upa (subsidiary) Puranas.
The Bhagavata Purana is the most popular and very important for Vaishnavas of all
denominations.
The Dharma Sastras are “law books” which include the famous Manu-smriti and the
Vishnu-smriti.
The Sutras are books of concise truths or aphorisms and include the Shrauta
sutras, Shulba-sutras, Grihya-sutras, Vedanta-sutras, etc.
Finally the writings and commentaries of the great Acharyas or Theologians are also
considered Vedic scriptures.
Basic Concepts of Hinduism
Atman – in order to understand the Hindu world-view it is essential to grasp this
first and foundational concept. Atman refers to the non-material self, which never
changes. It is distinct from both the mind and the body. This real self is beyond
the temporary designations we normally ascribe to ourselves, in terms of race,
gender, species and nationality. Consciousness, wherever it is found (in other words
not only human beings), is considered a symptom of the soul, and without it the
body has no awareness. In short the atman or individual soul is spirit (Brahman),
49
unchanging, eternal and conscious while the body is material, temporary and
unconscious. At death the soul is carried within the subtle (astral) body into another
body. The next body is determined by the state of mind at death, and by the soul’s
desires and deserts.
Samsara – or cycle of reincarnation refers to the process of passing from one body
to another throughout all species of life. Hindus believe that consciousness is
present in all life forms, even fish and plants. However, though the soul is present
in all species, its potential is exhibited to different degrees. In aquatics and plants
it is most “covered”, practically asleep, whereas in humans it is most alert. This
progression of consciousness is manifest throughout 6 broad “classes of life”,
namely 1) aquatics, 2) plants, 3) insects and reptiles, 4) birds, 5) animals and 6)
humans. Most Hindus consider samsara essentially painful, a cycle of 4 recurring
problems: birth, disease, old-age and death.
Karma – The universal law of karma (action and reaction) determines each soul’s
unique destiny. The self- determination and accountability of the individual soul
rests on its capacity for free choice. This is exercised only in the human form.
Whilst in lower species, the atman takes no moral decisions but is instead bound
by instinct. Therefore, although all species of life are subject to the reactions of
past activities, such karma is generated only while in the human form. Human life
alone is a life of responsibility. The Bhagavd Gita categorizes karma, listing 3 kinds
of human actions: 1) Karma; those which elevate, 2) Vikarma: those which degrade
and 3) Akarma: those which create neither good nor bad reactions and thus lead to
liberation.
Prakriti – or matter is inert, temporary and unconscious. Everything made of matter
undergoes 3 stages of existence- 1) it is created, 2) it remains for some time and,
3) it is inevitably destroyed.
Gunas – Matter is composed of 3 qualities (gunas)
corresponding to creation, sustenance and destruction:
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Sattva or goodness is pure, elevating, enlightening.
Rajas or passion motivates us to create, acquire and enjoy.
Tamas or ignorance is dirty, degrading, deluding and destructive.
All material phenomena can be analyzed in terms of the gunas. According to the
soul’s preference for a particular mode, it takes on a corresponding body. Those
influenced by goodness will be elevated to the heavenly planets at death, those
largely in influenced by passion stay in the human society and those influenced by
ignorance enter into the lower species.
Maya – or illusion means that which is not. Influenced by the 3 gunas the atman
or soul mistakenly identifies with the body. He accepts such thoughts such as “I
am white and I am a man”, or “This is my house, my country and my religion.” Thus
the bewildered soul identifies with the temporary body and everything connected to
it, such as race, gender, family, nation, bank balance and sectarian religion. Under
this false identity the atman aspires to control and enjoy matter. It is by cultivating
the quality of goodness that the soul can make gradual progress towards transcendence and eventually fully escape the influence of any of the 3 gunas including
goodness and obtain liberation.
Moksha – or liberation from Samsara, Maya and the influence of the 3 Gunas is
considered by most Hindu traditions as the ultimate goal of life. The main difference
of opinion centre on the precise nature of Moksha. Although practically all schools
consider it a state of unity with God, the nature of such unity is contested. The
Advaita or monistic traditions say that moksha entails annihilation of the soul’s
false sense of individuality and realization of its complete non- difference from God.
The Dvaita or dualistic traditions claim that God remains ever distinct from the
individual soul or atman even after the soul has achieved liberation from its false
identity; and union with God refers to a unity of purpose in which the individual soul
surrenders, serves and loves the Supreme Brahman or God.
51
Vaishnavism is the largest tradition within the family of religions called Hinduism.
It is the oldest monotheistic tradition in the world. Its followers called Vaishnavas
worship God under the names/forms of Vishnu (“one who is all- pervading”),
Krishna (“the all- attractive one”), Rama (“the source of all-pleasure”) or other less
well known names/forms or Avatars. There are four main branches or sampradayas
of Vaishnavism and many sub-branches. The theologians/founders of these 4 main
branches or sampradayas are: Ramanuja, Madhva, Nimbarka and Vishnuswami. The
main Vedic scriptures studied and followed by the Vaishnavas are: Mahabharata,
Ramayana, Bhagavad-Gita, Bhagavat Purana and Vedanta Sutras. The main places
of pilgrimage for the Vaishnavas are: Mathura/Vrndavana, Ayodhya, Puri, Dvaraka,
Tirupati, Gurvayor, Shri Rangan, etc.
God is addressed by many names in Hinduism depending on the tradition or aspect
of the Supreme Truth that one is trying to present. Many Hindus describe God as
Sat-Cid-Ananda or full of eternity, knowledge and bliss. These correspond to three
main features of the Supreme:
Brahman refers to the all-pervading aspect of God. Scripture states ‘everything is
Brahman.” This sat/eternal aspect of God is realized by understanding one’s own
eternal nature as atman.
Paramatman or Antaryami means “the controller within” and refers to God residing
within the hearts of all beings. He is often referred to as the Supersoul and is
initially perceived in various ways, through memory, instinct, intelligence, inspiration,
and exceptional ability. He is the object of meditation for many mystic yogis. This
feature of God represents his cit or knowledge aspect.
Bhagavan means “one endowed with unlimited opulence” and refers to God who
lives beyond this material world. Bhagavan is the Supreme person and the individual soul can enter into a direct relationship with Him, thus experiencing ananda or
spiritual pleasure.
Most traditions accommodate these three aspects of God, but will understand
the relationship between them differently. They often stress one feature as more
important than the others. They also differ as to the exact identity of God and their
understanding of the many gods and goddesses.
Main Traditions and Paths
Classifying the many groups within Hinduism is a challenge more so than with other
religions. In so doing, we may unconsciously promote the idea that Hinduism is
a single monolithic religion. As mentioned before it is more accurately a “family
of religions” with each family member autonomous but sharing distinctive family
features. The fact that some Hindu traditions are monotheistic others monistic and
yet others polytheistic is a proof that Hinduism is quite different from other world
faiths. In trying to discern specific strands within Hinduism we are in danger of overgeneralizing, promoting stereotypes and creating false boundaries.
Nonetheless, it is useful- even necessary-to establish a somewhat tentative framework for categorizing the numerous groups and sub-groups. The main classification
of Hinduism is based on the focus of worship which produces four main traditions:
Shaivism is the second largest tradition and has several and important branches.
It is commonly associated with asceticism. Lord Shiva himself is often depicted
as a yogi sitting in meditation in the Himalayas. The main Vedic scriptures studied
and followed by the Shaivites are: Svetashvatara Upanishad, Shiva Purana and the
Agamas. The main places of pilgrimage for the Shaivites are: Benares, Rameshvaram, Kedarnatha, Amarnatha, etc.
Shaktism focuses on the goddess generically called “Devi”. The Shakta tradition
specifically worships Shiva’s consort, in her many various forms such as Parvati,
Durga, Kali, etc. The main Vedic scriptures studied and followed by the Shaktas
are: Devi Purana, Kalika Purana, Devi Bhagavata Purana and the Tantras. The main
places of pilgrimage are: Bengal, Calcutta (Kali Temple), Kanyakumari, Madurai,
Vaishno Devi, etc.
There is a fourth mainstream Hindu tradition called Smarta. The followers of this
tradition are called the Smartas and are traditional and very strict about rules and
regulations and emphasize the universality of Hinduism by distancing themselves
from the exclusive worshippers of Vishnu, Shiva or Devi. The Smarta Tradition is a
relatively new development in Hinduism and many Hindus may not strictly identify
themselves as Smartas but, by adhering to Advaita Vedanta ( the doctrine of
Monism or Oneness with the Supreme) as a foundation for non-sectarianism, are
indirect followers. The main theologian of this tradition is Shankaracharya or Adi
Shankara who is reputed to have started the system of worshipping 5 deities. He
was the founder of the Advaita School of Vedanta which underpins the widespread
notion that all deities are equal. The main scriptures for the Smartas are: Vedanta
Sutra, Upanishads and Shariraka Bhasya. And the main places of pilgrimage are:
Badrinatha, Puri, Kanchipuram, etc.
Another criterion for classifying the followers of Hinduism is the spiritual processes
or paths they choose. Though within Hinduism there are many diverse practices
most fall within 4 main paths or margs. Since these paths are aimed at union (with
God) they are also called “yogas”. They are:
develop his Godhood) while for the Dvaita traditions God is ultimately personal and
the soul remains eternally distinct from God (though both are usually considered
Brahman). To attempt to describe these other criteria properly would be impossible
in this brief presentation on Hinduism.
Karma Marg/Yoga or the path of (proper) action
Jnana Marg/Yoga or the path of knowledge
Raja (Astanga) Marg/Yoga or the path of meditation
Bhakti Marg/Yoga or the path of devotion
Conclusion
The four main denominations often favor one or more of these paths for example
the Vaishnavas favor the path of devotion, the Shaivites favor the paths of knowledge and meditation, the Shaktas favor the path of proper action and the Smartas
favor the path of knowledge.
There are other criteria for classifying the different traditions within Hinduism like;
the six orthodox doctrines or darshanas (Vaisheshika, Nyaya, Sankhya, Yoga, Mimamsa and Vedanta), the Advaita or monistic/impersonal traditions and the Dvaita
or dualist/personal traditions (with many variants). For the Advaita traditions God is
impersonal and the soul is entirely non-different from God (but has yet to realize/
Though most Hindus belong to one of the above mentioned traditions or practice
one of the above mentioned paths there are many Hindus that don’t identify with
any particular tradition or path but several or all traditions and paths simultaneously. There are also many that follow one or several of the many modern Hindu
movements many of which are syncretic, adopting concepts and practices from any
of the above traditions or paths or even from other world religions and philosophies.
Hinduism tends to accommodate people with different concepts of the Supreme so
that all can gradually progress towards ultimate self-and God-realization.
The term Hinduism needs to be addressed by the leaders of the many different
traditions within it and reassessed. There may be a more original and proper word
or term for referring to the different traditions originating in India of following the
Vedic scriptures.
Samskaras:
hindu rites of passage
By Krishna Kripa Dasa (Juan Carlos Ramchandani)
Samskaras are rites of passage in a human being's life described in ancien vedic
and puranic texts, as well as a concept in the karma theory of Hindu philosophies.
The word literally means "putting together, making perfect, getting ready, to prepare", or "a sacred or sanctifying ceremony" in ancient Sanskrit.
In the context of karma theory, Samskara are dispositions, character or behavioral
traits, that exist as default from birth or prepared and perfected by a person over
one's lifetime, that exist as imprints on the subconscious according to various
schools of Hindu philosophy such as the Yoga Darshana school. These perfected
or default imprints of karma within a person, influences that person's nature,
response and states of mind.
In another context, Samskara refers to the diverse rites of passage in Sanatana
Dharma or what we come to know today as Hinduism. In Hinduism, the samskaras
vary in number and details according to regional traditions. They range from the list
of 48 sanskaras in the Dharmasstras from about the middle of 1st millennium BCE,
to 16 samskaras in the Grhyasutra texts from centuries later. The list of samskaras
in Hinduism include both external rituals such as those marking a baby's birth and
a baby's name giving ceremony, as well as inner rites of resolutions and ethics
such as compassion towards all living beings and positive attitude. The Upanishads
mention samskaras as a means to grow and prosper in all fou raspects of human
pursuit: Dharma (righteousness), Artha(wealth), Kama (pleasure), and Moksha
(freedom of the cycle of birth and death).
Samskara in Hindu traditions, have been ceremonies, with the expression of
outward symbols or signs of inner change, marking life events of significance. They
served a spiritual, cultural and psychological purpose, welcoming an individual into
a stage of life, conferring privileges to the individual(s), expecting duties from the
individual, and impressing on the individual as well individual's social circle of his or
her new role.
Sanskaras in Hinduism are rites of passage that begin with one's birth, celebrates
certain early steps in a baby's growth and his or her welcome into the world in the
presence of friends and family, then various stages of life (Ashrama (stage)) such
57
as first learning day, graduation from school, wedding and honeymoon, pregnancy,
raising a family, as well as those related to final rites associated with cremation.
These rites of passage are not uniform, and vary within the diverse traditions of
Hinduism. Some may involve formal ceremonies, yajna (fire) ceremonies with the
chanting of Vedic hymns. Others are simple, private affairs involving a couple, with
or without friends, other family families or a religious person such as priest or
pandit.
Sanskaras are not considered as end in themselves, but are means of social
recognition as well as the passage of a person from one significant stage of life to
another Various elements of Samskaras and rituals of life's passage are mentioned
in Vedas, one of the oldest known scriptures in the world. The most extensive, but
divergent discussions of these rites of passage are found in the numerous Dharmasutras and Gryhasutras. Many of these rites of passage include formal ceremonies,
with ritual readings of hymns, chants and ethical promises, aiming to orient the
individual(s) to that which is considered part of dharma (right, good, moral, true,
spiritual, responsible, duties to family members or society in general), and essential
actions such as those associated with last rites and cremation, charitable works, or
out of sraddha or items of faith.
The 16 Samskaras
There are diverse number of Sanskaras in Hinduism, varying by texts between
12 and 18 in the Grhyasutras (Kalpa shastras). Of these, 16 are referred to as
"Shodasha Samskaras".
Vivaha, the wedding rituals
Garbhadana, intent to have a child
Pumsavana, quickening the fetus (usually done after the third month of pretnangcy)
Simantonnayana: parting the wife hair and baby shower,
Jatakarma: childbirth ceremony
Nama-karana: naming the baby ritual, also for some sampradayas is one of the
steps to take to become a hindu.
Nishkramana: baby´s first outing.
Annaprashana: baby´s first solid food ritual.
Chudakarana: baby´s first hair cut
Karnavedha: baby´s earlobe piercing ritual (for both girls and boys)
Mundanam: baby´s complete head shave from the child
Vidyarambha: child begenning of study.
Upanayanam: boy´s sacred thread ceremony and for some sampradayas its a way of
formal initiation into hindu dharma.
Vedarambha: study of the Vedas and other holy scriptures.
Samavartana: graduation or completion of the studies.
Antyesthi-kriya: funeral rites (usually a cremation of the body)
From these 16 samskaras 8 are considered essential. These are known as
Astha-samskaras:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
58
Namakarana - Naming ceremony
Anna Prasana - Beginning of solid food
Karnavedha - Ear piercing
Chudakarana - Head Shaving
Vidyarambha - Beginning of Education
HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
6.
7.
8.
Upanayanam - Sacred Thread Ceremony
Vivaha - Marriage
Antyeshti - Funeral or Last Rites
Eight Benefits of Hindu Samskaras
1. Samskaras provide sound mental and physical health and the confidence to
face life's challenges,
2. They rejuvenate the mind and enhance concentration and intellectual capacity
3. Samskaras give a sense of belonging, culture, and refined sensibilities
4. They direct energy to humanitarian causes thereby building a strong character
5. Samskaras kill vices, such as pride, ego, selfishness, wrath, envy, greed and
fear
6. They bestow moral and physical balance throughout life
7. Samskaras give the confidence to face death bravely owing to a contented and
righteous life
8. Samskara make us closer to God so we can purify our mind and body to serve
Him better.
Born from a indian hindu father and spanish christian mother, Is a hindu vaishnava
purohit (priest) trained in south and north indians religious traditions. Author of 15
books about sanatana dharma. Is one of the founding members and first president
of the Hindu Federation of Spain. Also is the serving as the vicepresident of the
Hindu Forum of Europe. Speaks spanish, english, and fluent hindi.
[email protected]
www.jcramchandani.es
59
General Assembly of
the Hindu Forum of Europe
Brussels November 2015
General Assembly of
the Hindu Forum of Europe
London June 2016
Diwali 2015 at the
European Parliament
Radhadesh
Château de Petite Somme
International Society for Krishna Consciousness
Foundateur-Acarya: A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
68
HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
A true spiritual oasis in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes,
now one of the main attractions of the Ardennes and is open
to visitors every day.
Tour the castle; multimedia show; Indian dance; exhibition about Srila Prabhupada;
Museum of Sacred Art; Boutique; Restaurant; Bakery; Bhagavad-Gita Walk
Petite Somme 5, Septon–Durbuy 6940, Belgium
T: +32(0)86 32 29 26 [email protected]
www.radhadesh.com
69
MOSA Belgium
Château de Petite Somme 5
B-6940, Septon (Durbuy)
Tel. +32(0)86 43 30 22
[email protected]
www.mosabelgium.com
MOSA Italy
Via Scopeti 106/108, Florence
San Casciano in Val di Pesa, 50026
Tel. +39(055) 82 00 54
[email protected]
www.mosaitaly.com
Lalit Kala Akademi, Delhi, India, March 2015
www.formsofdevotion.org
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE
China Art Museum, Shanghai, China November 2015
Centro Cultural Conde Doque, Madrid, Spain, October 2016
Valladolid, Las Francesas, Spain, September 2016
Chulalongkorn University’s Art and Culture, Bangkok, Thailand, April 2015
La Casa de la India, Valladolid, Spain, October 2016
[Golden Tours
Foundation
to add]
ishes
B es t W
Happy
for a
i
l
a
w
i
D
2016
O
nce upon a time there was a great warrior, Prince Rama, who had a beautiful wife named Sita. There was also a terrible demon king, Ravana. He
was feared throughout the land. He wanted to make Sita his wife, and one day
he kidnapped her and took her in his chariot to Lanka. After a long search,
Hanuman found Sita imprisoned on an island. Then a bridge was built with
help of Hanuman and his army. They rushed across it and fought a mighty
battle. When Rama killed the evil Ravana with a magic arrow, the whole
world rejoiced. Rama and Sita began their long journey back to their land,
and everybody lit lamps to guide them on their way and welcome them back.
Ever since, people light lamps at Diwali to remember that light triumphs over
dark and good triumphs over evil.
Eurobel BVBA
Schupstraat 9-11, Box 101, 2018 Antwerpen (Belgium)
t: 03 290 01 41 f: 03 290 01 42 www.eudiamonds.be
Manisha Patawari: Sunrise with Names of Shree Rama, the 7th avatar of Shree Vishnu,
Krishna, who appeared in ancient times in the Surya Vansha (the Sun dynasty)
GEMINI CORPORATION NV
Gemini House, Watwerwilgweg 6, 2050 Antwerp
T +323 2540414 F +323 2540428
[email protected] www.geminicorp.be
Hindu Forum of Europe
HFE Executive Board:
Lakshmi Vyas, President
Krishna Kripa dasa/ Juan Carlos Ramchandani, Vice President
Mahaprabhu dasa/ Martin Gurvich, General Secretary
Marie Spennare, Treasurer
Gianluca Troiano, Member
Members:
Hindu Forum of Britain
National Council of Hindu Temples UK
Hindu Forum of Belgium
Hindu Council of the Netherlands
Unione Induista Italiana
ISKCON, Italy
ISKCON, Hungary
Federación Hindu de Espana
Hindu Forum of Sweden
Portuguese Yoga Confederation
Patrons:
Nat Puri
Nitin Palan/Golden Tours Foundation
Bhaktivedanta Manor
Spiritual Advisors:
Sivarama Swami
Srutidharma dasa
Nirliptananda Swami
Sister Jayanti
Amarananda Swami
Acknowledgements:
We are grateful for the help and support of the following individuals and organisations in the
preparation of the Diwali event and magazine.
MEPs Geoffrey Van Orden, Neena Gill, Igor Soltes, Cora van Nieuwenhuizen,
Jo Leinen, Claude Moraes.
Ann Jane Hill- Parliamentary Assistant to Geoffrey Van Orden
Embassy of India
Ambassador of India to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU HE Manjeev Singh Puri
Main Sponsor Nitin Palan/ Golden Tours Foundation, UK
Sponsor ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Manor, UK
Count Clerici and the Instituto de Skriptura for hosting the Diwali Dinner
Usha Balasundaram and her student Srinidhi Bhardwaj for the Dance Performance
Prema and Sita for cooking the Diwali Dinner
Vaishnavi and Janmastami for their support
Malaari, Jan Andre and Ravinjay for helping set up the Exhibit at the Parliament
Phelelani Mdabe (magazine layout)
Ricardo Fernández Otazo (Photography, FOD Spain)
Tarunyamrta and Purna Tattva
Advertisers- Thank you for your support
H Sandhu from Capital Hotel in Brussels for his generosity
Special thanks to Carine for her hard work
Our Grateful thanks to everyone who helped with driving, cooking, packing, etc.
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HINDU FORUM OF EUROPE