Hindu teachings in London

[Guest guest]

Yesterday I was asked to give a talk on Hinduism at King's college

London. It was wonderful to see the lecture room packed to capacity

with chairs being brought in to accommodate greater numbers.

 

Though the talk focused on relationship of Hinduism with findings

of Modern Sciences - one youngster asked about the importance

of Hanuman. This topic brought into focus a serious flaw seen

in the way Hinduism is portrayed to the Hindu youth in the West.

 

I asked what is the main difference between say Superman and

Hanuman? Both fly about, doing good to mankind - still there is a

major difference - what? Why bother with Hanuman in the modern

world - we have Superman? : )

I am not asking for love of Rama or God or anything ...just simple

human attributes of Hanuman for the Hindu youth to emulate!

 

I explained Hanuman should be the role model of every Hindu youth,

because he stands for these three attributes:

 

He represents Bala..... Strength.... whatever we do - we have to do it with

full vigour - give our best ... Invoke strength - without that we cannot

achieve

anything - spiritual or even secular.

 

He represents Buddhi.... If something does not agree with common-sense

(let alone laws of induction and deduction) then reject it even if it comes

in the name of religion.

 

The third aspect - not emphasised by the modern Hindu teachers

and is perhaps the most important feature of Hanuman - that is

Brahmacharya.....Celibacy..... no mamby pamby 'sense management'.

Pure and simple: Celibacy.......absolute celibacy even in our dreams.

 

One could see that this aspect of Hanuman has not been emphasised

to the Hindu youth. Someone said, " Then the Hindu youth will go away

from religion! So be it, religion is not a fashion accessory! Without

invoking this vital aspect the youth have missed out on the key feature

of Hanuman. The reason Hanuman is greater than Superman is because

if 'Louise Lane' flutters her eyelashes at Superman - he turns to jelly.

If a beautiful lady flutters her eyelashes at Hanuman he would say,

" Mother, you have something in your eye ...let me clear it! "

 

: )

 

dilip lakhani

Vivekananda Centre London