Connecting Global Threads of Faith Newsletter # 1 May
- Editorial Team GHTN
- May 19
- 4 min read
Connecting Global Threads of Faith
Editor’sNote…
In the past fortnight, as India responded with precision and restraint to Pakistan's provocations, the eternal battle between Dharma and Adharma played out once more. As we report on attacks, neglect, and resilience across the world, the need to stand united for Dharma feels more urgent than ever.
May Newsletter – 1
(May 01 – May 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.
North America
United states of America
At TEDxTampa in Florida, Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami of the Abu Dhabi BAPS Mandir explained the spiritual meaning of Hindu monks' saffron robes as symbols of self-sacrifice and impermanence. His message of compassion and cultural unity deeply moved over 1,000 attendees, earning a standing ovation.
Europe
United Kingdom
After years of effort, the Chelmsford Hindu Society, led by Smita Rajesh, has received approval to convert a former shop on Beehive Lane into the city's first Hindu temple, also serving as a community hub for cultural and social activities.
South-East Asia
Pakistan
Pakistani Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan stirred controversy by saying that Pakistan Army soldiers would lay the first brick of a new Babri mosque in Ayodhya, with Army Chief Asim Munir delivering the first azaan.
India
Around 100 grams of gold has been allegedly stolen from the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple (in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala). Police said that around 12 pavan (approximately 96 grams) of gold kept at the temple for gold plating work is missing and CCTV footage was being examined to find out who took it. The officer said an investigation into the incident is going on.
Senior Puri Jagannath servitor Ramakrushna Dasmohapatra was suspended for 30 days after attending the consecration of a Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal. His claim that the idols there were made from leftover Nabakalebara wood sparked outrage and was later contradicted, leading to action for violating temple sanctity.
In response to terror threats post the Pahalgam attack, Mumbai’s Shri Siddhivinayak Temple has banned offerings like coconuts, sweets, flowers, and garlands from May 11, 2025
The NHRC has sought an action taken report from Kendrapara’s (in Odisha) Collector and SP on the deteriorating condition of the 400-year-old Baladevjew temple, following a petition by activist Radhakanta Tripathy. Citing unhygienic surroundings, broken CCTV systems, unpaid aged staff, and misuse of temple space, the petition highlights neglect despite the temple’s stature as Tulasi Khetra with Odisha’s second largest endowment trust. NHRC has given four weeks for the report.
Maharashtra cabinet has approved ₹1,445.9 crore for Kolhapur's Mahalaxmi temple and ₹259.6 crore for Jyotiba temple development. Plans include temple conservation, festival route clearance, heritage zone upgrades, and improved facilities for devotees.
Pakistani forces targeted the Shambhu temple and civilian areas in Jammu on May 10, 2025, amid rising hostilities following India’s “Operation Sindoor.” India intercepted multiple armed drones, while Pakistan confirmed blasts at key air force bases, prompting a closure of its airspace.
The grand Pattabhishekam of Goddess Meenakshi, marking her symbolic coronation and reign over Madurai(in Tamil Nadu), was held with devotion at Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple as part of the Chithirai festival.
A devotee, C Madanika, found a dead snakelet in the prasad after visiting the Chandra Choodeswarar Temple in Therpettai, Hosur, Tamil Nadu; the temple management is investigating the incident, and food safety authorities have raised concerns over poor kitchen hygiene.
The Ram temple complex in Ayodhya will dedicate 60% of its area to green space, focusing on environmental conservation, with gardens and fruit-bearing plants named "Panchvati." The GMR Group has been tasked with developing and maintaining these spaces under a five-year contract.
A stampede at the Sree Lairai Devi temple in Shirgaon, Goa, during the annual festival claimed six lives and left 70 injured as thousands of devotees crowded narrow lanes leading to the temple, prompting an investigation into crowd management failures.
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