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SAN FRANCISCO, Ca (April 14, 2006) –
The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) today applauded the recent
construction of a temple by members of the Scheduled Caste
(Dalit) community in Chauriberhampur village in the state
of Orissa, India. The Hadi community built the temple in response
to the unjust denial of entry into the traditional village
temple by Hindus of other castes.
Many Hadis make a living by scavenging, sweeping
streets and removing waste. Despite their depressed economic
circumstances, the Hadi community was able to raise over Rs.
200,000 (US$4,000) for the construction of a temple dedicated
to Goddess Maa Mangala.
“Hindu religious leaders, who have
largely focused on individual spiritual counsel, must also
engage in social activism and speak out against such atrocities,”
said Pawan Deshpande, Member of the Hindu American Foundation
Executive Council. “The Hadis have demonstrated their
pride and faith in the Hindu religion. In the past, such indignities
have undoubtedly contributed to communities converting out
of the Hindu fold.”
HAF calls for all Hindus in India, especially
the leaders of Hindu religious, social and political organizations,
to articulate and forcefully implement reforms against casteism.
HAF believes that while the government has the immediate responsibility
of upholding the law, religious organizations are uniquely
positioned to enable a long-term social change.
“The ancient Sanskrit and Tamil scriptures
of Hinduism are unambiguous in their declaration that Divinity
is inherent in all beings and that the goal of religion is
to help manifest that Divinity”, said Swaminathan Venkataraman,
Member of the Hindu American Foundation Executive Council.
“While economic changes have already diminished casteist
distinctions in many parts of India, it is also imperative
that all Hindus, regardless of caste or social class, enjoy
equal spiritual and religious rights.”
The Hindu American Foundation is a non-profit
501(c)(3), non-partisan organization, promoting the Hindu
and American ideals of understanding, tolerance and pluralism.
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