What a Great Day it is (March 21, 2008) for India and the world. There is great
celebration, solemnity and remembrance among the followers of the major religions
-- Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.
It is a great coincidence that the Holi, Good Friday and Meelad-un-Nabi
fell on the day. For the Parsis it is 'Navroz' (New Year). The Turks also celebrated
the New Year 'Newroz.'
Down South India, it is an important day in the worship of Lord Murugan, called
the Pankuni Uthiram.
"Festive Friday for Amar, Akbar, and Antony," ran a creative heading on a leading
newspaper, reminding one of the title of a popular Hindi film of yester-year.
Scenes of multitudes offering prayers at churches and mosques and Hindus celebrating
the colourful festival of Holi makes one feel what a Great Nation is India, where
co-existence of major religions is a dominant feature.
Speaking of co-existence, my friend too opines that the crisis that China faces
over Tibet could be overcome if only co-existence is the order of the day.
The strength and vibrancy that India has offered me today, and obviously to multitudes,
is something that sustains one from the onslaught of forces inside and outside;
nourishes the mind; and enriches the soul.
Reading the Sermons from Calvary made me more attuned to the presence of the
Almighty. And thank God for giving me the time to reflect and write.
celebration, solemnity and remembrance among the followers of the major religions
-- Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.
It is a great coincidence that the Holi, Good Friday and Meelad-un-Nabi
fell on the day. For the Parsis it is 'Navroz' (New Year). The Turks also celebrated
the New Year 'Newroz.'
Down South India, it is an important day in the worship of Lord Murugan, called
the Pankuni Uthiram.
"Festive Friday for Amar, Akbar, and Antony," ran a creative heading on a leading
newspaper, reminding one of the title of a popular Hindi film of yester-year.
Scenes of multitudes offering prayers at churches and mosques and Hindus celebrating
the colourful festival of Holi makes one feel what a Great Nation is India, where
co-existence of major religions is a dominant feature.
Speaking of co-existence, my friend too opines that the crisis that China faces
over Tibet could be overcome if only co-existence is the order of the day.
The strength and vibrancy that India has offered me today, and obviously to multitudes,
is something that sustains one from the onslaught of forces inside and outside;
nourishes the mind; and enriches the soul.
Reading the Sermons from Calvary made me more attuned to the presence of the
Almighty. And thank God for giving me the time to reflect and write.
