Connecting Global Threads of FaithNewsletter # 1 March
- Editorial Team GHTN
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Connecting Global Threads of Faith
Editor’s Note
Temples may have fallen, prayers may have been silenced, and the vulnerable may have been led astray, yet dharma rises anew, unshaken. Even as shadows linger, Holi’s colours burst forth, a joyous reminder that light and devotion can never be extinguished…
March Newsletter – 1
(March 1–March 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.
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South-East Asia
Maldives
In the Maldives, India's close neighbor, Hindu temples are completely banned, and practicing Hindu rituals can lead to imprisonment. Despite hosting thousands of Indian and Sri Lankan Hindu workers, Maldivian law prohibits public worship of any non-Islamic religion. The constitution mandates that all citizens must be Muslim, and religious symbols or idols are strictly restricted. Once home to Hindu and Buddhist civilizations, the Maldives saw the destruction of its temples after its conversion to Islam in the 12th century. Today, Hindus in the country must worship in secrecy, facing severe penalties if discovered.
Pakistan
In Pakistan, many Scheduled Caste Hindus are converting to Islam due to socio-economic challenges, including the high costs of traditional Hindu cremations and marginalization by both Muslims and upper-caste Hindus. These conversions are often overlooked,
India
Millions celebrate Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, by throwing bright powders, dancing, and feasting. The festival symbolizes spring, divine love, and the triumph of good over evil.
The Madras High Court has ruled that only devotional songs can be played in temple premises during festivals, prohibiting film or non-religious music. The court also directed authorities to appoint trustees for the Shri Veezhi Varadharaja Perumal Temple, emphasizing the need for proper temple management.
ISKP-linked terrorist Abdul Rehman planned attack on Ram Temple, trained via video calls in Milkipur
Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP)linked terrorist Abdul Rehman, arrested in Faridabad, was allegedly plotting an attack on the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and had been trained remotely via video calls. Authorities recovered two hand grenades from him, raising serious national security concerns.
North America
United States of America
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, one of the largest Hindu temples in southern California, was desecrated with anti-India messages on Sunday, making it another such incident in the US in the past few months. BAPS condemned the hate crime, reaffirming the Hindu community’s resolve to stand united against hatred.
India has condemned the vandalism at a Hindu temple in California, US, and called upon law enforcement authorities to take strict action against those responsible.
Europe
United Kindgom
A new study by the Institute for the Impact of Faith in Life finds British Hindus leading in eco-friendly actions, with 78% altering consumer habits and 64% participating in rewilding. Rooted in Hinduism’s philosophy of interconnectedness, this environmental ethic reflects a deep spiritual responsibility toward nature.
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