Hindu Temples, organisations and associations established to promote Hinduism and Hindu traditions should get closer to the communities that they serve.
That was among the recommendations heard at a Forum of Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations held at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Central Auckland on February 20.
Member of Parliament Dr Rajen Prasad participated in the Forum, which included an interactive workshop, attended by about 50 officials representing various relevant organisations conforming to the Hindu faith.
According to Forum Secretary Mamta Bhikha, among the issues of concern were social, cultural and Dharmic aspects of life.
“The exemplary unity of the World Hindu Society is based on the socio-cultural-spiritual value system of Hindu Dharma. The Forum would draw on the strength of the Hindu Philosophy of Dharma,” she said.
The participants discussed challenges faced by the Hindu Dharma in New Zealand, social issues, promotion of Yoga, Ayurveda and Meditation and ways and means of engaging the Hindu youth.
The sessions were facilitated by Yogesh Punja (Sri Krishna Chaitanya Ashram), Subra Subramaniam (New Zealand Thirumurugan Temple Society), Swami Karma Karuna (Anahata Yoga Health & Education Trust) and Komal Shah (Hindu Youth New Zealand).
The Forum suggested that Temples and other Hindu organisations should offer social support to families, offer counselling and other services to victims of family violence, try to resolve family problems amicably and build the capacity of the community to inform, plan, and implement development programmes.
“Since Early Education makes a significant difference, programmes must be in place to inculcate Hindu values in youth,” a communiqué said.
Read our Editorial, Hindus must practice what they preach
