HAF Writes to the NY Times about Kirtan's Hindu Roots
The Hindu American Foundation submitted the following letter to the editor of the New York Times on March 5, 2009. The letter was not published.
Dear Editor,
The New York Times article, "Yoga Enthusiasts Hear the Call of Kirtan" (Wednesday, March 4, 2009), written by Sara Eckel misses the mark in asserting that kirtan is not specific to any religion. Kirtan is an essential form of worship for over a billion Hindus worldwide with definitive Hindu roots. Kirtan is conducted at temples, in homes, during Hindu holidays and rites of passage and any occasion in between. And by the author's own description, kirtans are in Sanskrit and invoke names such as Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna, all Hindu names for God, by my count.
That millions of people are finding solace in this ancient Hindu practice is truly inspirational. But, the author fails to acknowledge the fundamental reason as to why this is possible -- that as a non-proselytizing religion and as a family of pluralistic doctrines and ways of life that affirm the legitimacy of other spiritual and religious traditions, Hinduism never compels practitioners of yoga or kirtan to profess allegiance or convert to the faith. So yes, kirtan is accessible to all, regardless of religion, and possible because of a brand of pluralism that is quintessentially Hindu. Only by acknowledging the positive contributions of Hinduism, or any other religion for that matter, will we as members of civil society gain better understanding of one another and ultimately achieve tolerance, pluralism and peace.
Suhag A. Shukla, Esq.
Managing Director
Hindu American Foundation
www.hafsite.org