Representatives of various faiths called for respect for diversity to ensure communal harmony, at an interfaith leaders’ meet here on Saturday.
Organised by NGO Rubaroo and the British Deputy High Commission, Hyderabad, the meet was held as part of a week-long inter-faith event Agaaz-e-Baatcheet that began on November 12. On Saturday, a panel discussion was organised where five representatives expressed the need for greater synergy to facilitate inter-faith dialogue.
“There will be absolutely no problem if we respect all traditions, cultures, religions. Inter-faith dialogue is not to destroy other religions but to enhance brotherhood and humanity among all. It can lay foundation for a common ground for the benefit of mankind,” said Maulana Omar Abadeen, Islamic scholar from Al Mahad Ul Islami.
‘Reflect on spirituality’
Dr. Raminder Kauri, a Sikh researcher and medical officer, urged the audience, mostly youth, to reflect on spiritual growth alongside efforts to garner education. She called various religions ‘different flavours’ that have to be relished but should not be pitted in one-upmanship.
According to C.S. R. Prabhu, Yoga practitioner and retired director-general of National Informatics Centre, all theistic and atheistic views of religion have similar core set of principles that are based on ethical and moral values. To understand these values, he said, is important given the present-day conflicts between faiths, sects and between science and religion.
‘Instigating violence’
Retired University of Hyderabad Sociology Professor said attempts to glorify one faith over another is a source of dispute. Even if one is an atheist, it is essential to respect all religions, he said, adding that faith is increasingly being used to instigate violence.
British Deputy High Commissioner Andrew Fleming was present at the event.
