Connecting Global Threads of Faith Newsletter # 1 July
- Editorial Team GHTN
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
Connecting Global Threads of Faith
Editor’s Note…
Across continents, from Sialkot to Sambhal and Spanish Fork to Samabula, the temples still stand, wounded at times, worshipped at others, reminding us that the spirit of Hindu Dharma endures, even when its walls are shaken.
July Newsletter – 1
(July 01 –July 15)
In an era of unprecedented global connectivity, the struggles and resilience of Hindus facing violence and persecution often go unrecognized. This fortnightly report brings these overlooked narratives to light by providing an unbiased and comprehensive selection of news agencies’ reports offering an overview of incidents impacting the Hindu community worldwide, while also celebrating Hindu heritage. Through this initiative, we seek to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of Hindu rights and religious freedom globally.
South Asia
Pakistan
During Sawan(June-july), Pakistani Hindus visit ancient Shiva temples like Katasraj and Umarkot. The historic Shivala Teja Singh Temple in Sialkot, once a major Hindu centre, was shut post-1947 and nearly demolished in 1992.
India
A Chandausi court in Sambhal district set July 21 to hear a plea seeking ban on offering of namaz at the disputed Masjid, which is a Harihar Temple.
Thousands of devotees thronged the Durga Malleswara Swamy Temple atop Indrakeeladri during the auspicious Hindu month of Aashaada, leading to suspension of protocol darshan and special arrangements for upcoming Sakambari Devi festivities.
The 10-day annual Brahmotsavam of Sri Narasimhar Swamy at Triplicane’s Sri Parthasarathy Perumal temple has begun, featuring daily processions, Garuda Sevai on July 6, and the temple car festival on July 10.
A security breach during the Rath Yatra at Puri's Jagannath Temple has raised serious concerns, as servitors and locals demand urgent corrective measures after individuals were seen scaling the temple's outer wall.
The Karnataka government has taken over the Gali Anjaneya Swamy temple in Byatarayanapura, declaring it a notified institution under the Hindu Religious Institutions Act after allegations of fund mismanagement and theft surfaced.
Renovation of the 1,000-year-old Maragathambikai sametha Sri Manneeswarar temple in Chennai, TamilNadu built by Chola king Kulothunga III, has begun with Rs. 45.2 lakh allocated for restoring ancient structures and preparing for the upcoming consecration ceremony.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) suspended a senior officer for violating his oath to follow Hinduism, after he was found attending Christian prayers. The disciplinary move was taken to preserve the sanctity and sentiments associated with the Hindu religious institution.
Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb supports reforms in Puri’s 800-year-old Jagannath Temple to meet modern needs but insists that changes to core religious traditions, including entry restrictions for non-Hindus, must follow due religious procedure and consensus.
America
United States of America
The Shri Shri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, was attacked thrice in June with 20–30 gunshots fired at night, causing major damage in what temple authorities call a hate crime. The Utah County Sheriff termed it vandalism, while India's Consulate condemned the attack and urged swift justice.
Pacific
Fiji
A century-old Shiv temple in Samabula, Fiji, was vandalised, sparking national outrage and condemnation from Hindu leaders and government officials, including Deputy PM Biman Prasad. The attack, seen as part of a disturbing trend of temple desecrations, has left the Indo-Fijian Hindu community deeply hurt and demanding swift justice and protection.
______________________________________________________________
Comments