“You cannot revive Hinduism by using Shri Ram as a political tool!” Pavan Varma, former diplomat and scholar

Goa Khabar: Pavan Varma, former Indian diplomat, politician and noted scholar lambasted the ruling political party in the country by saying, “You cannot revive Hinduism by using Shri Ram as a political tool!”

Varma was delivering his lecture on “Hinduism” at the International Centre Goa (ICG) on Thursday evening in Panjim.

Scathing in his criticism of the ruling political disposition, Varma said, “The new thekadars ( contractors) of Hinduism are trying to dictate what we must eat, what we must drink and how we must dress. These are people, who have not fully understood Hinduism.”

According to Varma, it was worrisome to see the present political heavyweights trying to homogenize Hinduism for selfish, political gains.

“Sanatan Dharma, which is the foundation of Hinduism has always advocated the policy of live and let live. True Hinduism has always believed in respecting all religions and faiths. Today’s political leaders are doing a disservice to Hinduism.”

According to Varma, the best way to counter half-baked knowledge of Hinduism was to learn and educate oneself  about Hinduism.

In a spirited, question and answer that followed his impressive, 45 minute lecture, Varma expressed optimism for the political future of the country stating, “Nothing is permanent. I firmly believe that Hinduism will go back to the age old tradition of “live and let live”

Earlier in his lecture, Varma credited the 8^th century, Hindu sage, Adi Shankaracharya for reviving Hinduism in medieval times. He said, “In the face of opposition, Adi Shankaracharya always advocated a fair and intelligent dialogue with his opponents and believed in the philosophy of “live and let live” which is the absolute core of Hinduism.