
Connecting Global Threads of Faith
Editor’s Note
As millions gather at the sacred confluence, the Mahakumbh stands as a testament to devotion’s enduring tide, where faith flows undeterred even in the face of adversity. Yet, when tragedy strikes, it calls upon us to reflect—on human frailty, divine grace, and the unseen forces that shape our journey through the currents of time…
January Newsletter – 2
(January 15– January 30)
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.
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South-East Asia
Bangladesh
Groups promoting extremist Islam are attacking minorities, particularly those from Hindu and Ahmadiyya communities in Bangladesh, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has revealed in its latest 50-page report titled ‘After the Monsoon Revolution: A Roadmap to Lasting Security Sector Reform in Bangladesh’. offers various recommendations to the Muhammad Yunus led interim government, including seeking technical assistance, monitoring, and reporting by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and other UN rights experts to ensure lasting reforms.
Pakistan
Three Hindu youths were kidnapped by armed outlaws in Pakistan's Punjab province, with the abductors demanding the release of their accomplices in exchange for the hostages' lives. The victims appeared in a video, chained and pleading for help, as the criminals threatened police with further violence.
India
Pakistani Hindu refugees in Delhi are set to cast their first votes, marking a symbolic assertion of their Indian identity after years of persecution. Grateful for citizenship, they hope for better housing, education, and job opportunities as they embrace their new homeland.
Two stampedes at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj, reportedly triggered by overcrowding and deliberate chaos, resulted in 30 deaths. Eyewitnesses claim a group instigated panic by breaking barriers, while a saint alleged a conspiracy to defame Kumbh. A judicial inquiry commission has been set up to investigate the incidents.
A fire broke out at the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj due to gas cylinder explosions in Sector 19, causing damage to tents and huts but resulting in no injuries. Authorities responded swiftly, bringing the fire under control, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the site to oversee relief efforts.
In a recent gathering in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, prominent religious leaders, including Devkinandan Thakur, emphasized the urgency of preserving Sanatan Dharma. They advocated for the establishment of a 'Sanatan Board' to safeguard their religious practices and identity. Thakur highlighted the increasing challenges faced by their community and stressed that immediate action is essential to protect their existence and faith.
A Delhi court has ordered the police to file an FIR against journalist Rana Ayyub for posting derogatory content on X in 2016-17, which included insults to Hindu deities and anti-India sentiments. The court directed a fair investigation into the matter after determining that cognizable offences were disclosed in the plea.
Vyasanand Giri, a Mahamandaleshwar at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, was previously Tom, the son of a former US Army commander and an IT professional. His spiritual journey led him to embrace Hinduism, becoming an adept in yoga
India celebrates the first anniversary of Ram Mandir’s 'Pran Prathistha' ceremony, with elaborate spiritual rituals and cultural events, marking the completion of a major milestone in the legal and political journey surrounding the temple.
The Ram Mandir in Ayodhya represents not just religious significance but also a cultural and national renaissance, with substantial investments and job creation aimed at boosting the local economy and revitalizing India’s heritage.
Foreign devotees visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya can now obtain VIP access by presenting their passports, with special arrangements made for NRIs and foreigners attending the Maha Kumbh.
The Enforcement Directorate raided the residences of former office-bearers of the defunct Kamakhya Temple board over allegations of misappropriating Rs 7.62 crore in temple funds between 2003 and 2019.
North America
Canada
Vivek Patel, a 20-year-old Indian youth in Canada, donated part of his first salary to the Ambaji Temple in Gujarat, marking a heartfelt gesture of gratitude towards the Almighty after securing his first job.
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