Developments in London

August 5, 2005

As a consequence of 7/7 bombings in London many interesting things have started to develop in London.

Government departments including the academic bodies, media, and the mainstream faith bodies are frantically exploring various avenues to see if a resolution to this thorny problem can be found. The issues raised by these events are not going to go away that easily. The main commercial channel (ITV) in London interviewed us on this topic. We said that the resolution lies firmly in the pluralistic teachings of Hinduism. These ideas have to be incorporated and promoted within the framework of teaching of all world religions. We continue to promote this agenda to the DfES as well as the QCA and the Religious Education council of England and Wales. Some stodgy theologians who cannot tell the difference between relativism and pluralism continue to resist our ideas but they are perhaps not aware that the only other alternative left to us will be to disown all religions. Our reading on this issue is very brash; to be able to live peacefully we either embrace pluralism or pursue a secular path and banish all religions!

Some mainstream faith bodies are showing tremendous openness in exploring the issue of how people of different religions can co-exist. To give you an example, last night we (together with many other faith representatives) were invited to the Al Khoi Shia Mosque in London for a prayer meeting for the victims of the London bombings. We recited and translated Shanti-paths (peace invocations) from the Vedas. We have in the past presented Hindu teachings from quite a few mainstream church pulpits but this must be a first where Hindu prayers are recited and explained in a mainstream mosque! This can only happen in London and not in any other part of the world. We are optimistic that the resolution of how people of different faiths can live together peacefully will be discovered and practised in London.

jay lakhani

Vivekananda Centre London