Month: November 2023

The World Hindu Congress 2023 came to a successful conclusion in Bangkok, receiving divine blessings from the esteemed Mata Amritanandmayi Devi. The gathering witnessed stimulating discussions and important announcements, reinforcing the commitment to the principles of Hindu Dharma.

Following the declaration on the inaugural day condemning the malicious attacks on Hindutva and Sanatan Dharma, the organizers made some key announcements on the concluding day. The World Hindu Economic Forum announced the upcoming World Hindu Economic Forum 2024 in Mumbai, scheduled for December 13-15. This annual event aims to foster economic collaboration and growth within the global Hindu community.  Plans for the World Hindu Congress 2026 were also unveiled, which is set to take place from December 18-20 at the Jio Convention Centre in Mumbai.

Before the concluding session on the final day got underway, a one-minute silence was observed to pay tribute to the victims of the 26/11 terror attack on Mumbai. Later, the coordinators of each of the seven parallel thematic conferences – economy, education, media, politics, women, youth and organisations – provided brief summaries and key takeaways from their respective areas.

Mata Amritanandmayi Devi’s Guidance

Addressing the attendees, Mata Amritanandmayi Devi emphasized the pivotal role of Dharma in bringing wellbeing and prosperity to humanity. She stated, “When we do our part to protect Dharma, it will protect us.” Highlighting the profound connection between human beings and nature, she underscored the importance of restoring Dharma as the solution to save the world and humanity. Mata Amritanandmayi Devi expressed concerns about the diminishing wellspring of love and selfless service in today’s world and asserted that being firmly established in Dharma is the way forward.

She highlighted Hindu Dharma’s unique acceptance of diverse paths to Truth, giving individuals the freedom to choose their spiritual journey. Comparing Dharma to a mother, Mata Amritanandmayi Devi said, “Living without Dharma is like forgetting one’s own mother’s home address.” She urged everyone to embrace the expansive and inclusive lap of Bharat Mata, emphasizing that no one should be rejected from her embrace.

A minimum of 2% of the donations received by each Temple and Matha should be allocated for the printing and free distribution of Hindu Dharma Granths. This measure is crucial to safeguard, nurture, and propagate Hindu Dharma, she added in her address in Malayalam which was live translated into English and Hindi.

Global Participation

The two-and-a-half-day event saw the participation of over 2000 delegates from 61 countries, engaging in 47 sessions. Eminent speakers, including Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, PP Sarsanghchalak of the RSS, Shri Dattatreya Hosable, Sarkaryavah of the RSS, Shri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman of Akshaya Patra, Swami Mitrananda of Chinmaya Mission, Swami Govind Dev Giri, Founder of Maharshi Vedavyas Pratishthan, Shri T. V. Mohandas Pai, Chairman 3one$ Capital, Shri Sridhar Vembu, CEO of Zoho, Shri Vipul Shah, Film Producer, Shri Vivek Agnihotri, Firm Director contributed their insights.

The World Hindu Congress had unveiled a WHC Declaration on the inaugural day of the World Hindu Congress 2023, Bangkok. In this declaration, the World Hindu Congress had strongly condemned the malicious attacks on Hindutva and Sanatan Dharma, and also renounced the term ‘Hinduism’ which was coined by a British Christian to denigrate Hindu Dharma as an ‘ism’ i.e. oppressive belief system. The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, in his written message had stated that Peace will be established in the world only through Hindu values of life.

The World Hindu Congress 2023 concluded with a sense of unity, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to the timeless values of Hindu Dharma.

Declaration No. 1

WHC Declaration About Terms “Hindu”, “Hindutva” and “Sanatan Dharma” 

World Hindu Congress 2023, Bangkok

24^th November 2023

In the term “Hindu Dharma”, the first word, i. e. “Hindu” is an unbounded word. It signifies all that is Sanatan or Eternal. And then there is Dharma, which means “That, which sustains”. Thus, Hindu Dharma signifies all that which eternally upholds everything; an individual, a family, a community, a society, and even nature – both animate and inanimate.

In contrast, Hinduism is totally different because it is suffixed with an “ism”. The term “ism” is defined as an oppressive and discriminatory attitude or belief. In the mid-nineteenth century United States of America, the phrase “the isms” was used to collectively refer to radical social reform movements and various non-mainstream spiritual or religious movements in a derogatory manner. The term “Hinduism” should be understood in such a context.

One should also note that the term “Hinduism” was introduced in the popular lexicon by Sir Monier-Monier Willimas via his handbook Hinduism. This handbook was published in 1877 by the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. This intellectually dishonest terminology is the seed behind the vicious anti-Hindu narratives over the last 150 years. 

It is for such reasons that many of our elders preferred the term “Hindutva” over Hinduism as the former is a more accurate terms since it includes the gamut (spectrum) of all that the word “Hindu” implies. We agree with them and should do the same. Hindutva is not a complicated word. It simply means Hindu-ness. Others have used the alternative “Sanatan Dharma”, often abbreviated as “Sanatan”. Here the term “Sanatan” works as an adjective indicating Hindu Dharma’s eternal nature.

However, in the present public discourse many academicians and intellectuals regularly portray Hindutva as the antithesis of Hindu Dharma, i.e. extremely negatively. Some of them argue like that because of their ignorance. But most are anti-Hindutva because of their visceral hatred and biases against Hindu Dharma.  Many politicians driven by political agendas and personal prejudices have also joined that group, and are criticizing Sanatan Dharma, or Sanatan with increasing regularity and vitriol.

On behalf of the global Hindu community the World Hindu Congress declares that such malicious criticism of Hindutva, or Sanatan Dharma, or Sanatan, or Hindu Dharma actually targets the Hindu society and all that is beautiful, just, good, and noble in it. In reality, these are attacks against goodness itself. The World Hindu Congress strongly condemns such attacks and urges Hindus worldwide for the manifestation of Hindutva through organized global efforts, and overcome those who are engaging in such anti-Hindu attacks and bigotry so that we are victorious.

RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, addresses World Hindu Congress 2023.

Mata Amritanandmayi Devi honoured at the WHC 2023 for her remarkable contribution to the society.

His Excellency Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister, Kingdom of Thailand shared a special message.

A significant declaration representing the global Hindu community was unveiled at the World Hindu Congress, about Hindutva and Sanatan Dharma

Bangkok, 24th November, 2023 – The World Hindu Congress 2023, a global platform for Hindu leaders, thinkers, and influencers, commenced with an enlightening inaugural ceremony at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Hall (Royal Jubilee, Impact Convention Centre)  in Bangkok. More than 2000 delegates from 61 countries have gathered to participate in this significant Hindu Resurgence event.

The World Hindu Congress is a global platform that brings together Hindu leaders, thinkers, and influencers from around the world to deliberate on issues affecting the Hindu community. Organized periodically, the WHC aims to unite Hindus, promote dialogue, and foster collaboration for the betterment of the global Hindu society.

The World Hindu Congress 2023 spans across three days, featuring conferences on diverse themes such as Hindu Organizations Conference, World Hindu Economic Forum, Hindu Education Conference, Hindu Media Conference, Hindu Political Conference, Hindu Youth Conference, and Hindu Women Conference. The event comprises insightful sessions, discussions, and dialogues, fostering unity and collaboration within the global Hindu community.

The plenary session of the inaugural ceremony featured a thought-provoking speech by Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, Param Pujaniya Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Dr. Bhagwat delved into the theme ‘Jayasya Aayatnam Dharmah,’ emphasizing the paramount role of Dharma in our journey to triumph.

In his address, Dr. Bhagwat stated, “What is meant by Jaya The dictionary meaning says it is victory but what is victory? The standpoint of Hindus about Jaya is that it’s not about Victory and Victims. It isn’t about conquering and the conquered. Jaya is about joining everybody together. There are three kinds of Vijaya. First is Rakshas Vijaya – the victory as seen by the demons. In this there is destruction only. The Tamasik Prakriti Vijaya. They believe in destroying just for the sake of destroying. It is Asuri Joy. When we say Jaya we don’t refer to this. Second is Dhan Vijaya – to acquire possession of all means of material happiness, people try to fight & dominate each other. This is Rajas Vijaya. Their intention is self centered. We have seen Asuri Vijaya where they committed aggression against our society for 500 years and wreaked havoc and destruction in our country. We have also seen the Dhan Vijaya, where for about 150-200 years, Bharat was looted like anything but when we say Vijaya, we mean the third concept that is Dharma Vijaya. The Vijaya that stands on Dharma. The process that is carried about by Dharma rules and its result is also Dharma”.

Reflecting on the significance and purpose of World Hindu Congress, Swami Vigyananand, Joint General Secretary of Vishva Hindu Parishad, Bharat, and Founder of the World Hindu Congress, expressed, “After independence Hindus were vilified by political class led by Jawaharlal Nehru and their so called academics and intellectuals. The general Hindu society and many Hindu organisations began to retreat from the Hindu identity during this difficult period. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh stood firm in the most challenging times. Sangh kept the flame of Hindu identity alive and burning through their Shakhas. Then came the Shri Ram Janmabhumi Movement where Hindu identity became prominent with the resounding slogan ‘Garv se kaho, hum Hindu hai’. On the platform of World Hindu Congress, a decision was made to popularise the term Bharat and Hindu. The aim is to make the Hindu identity visible, respectable and acceptable worldwide advocating the use of the word Hindu and Hindu Dharma only. The goal is to make the word Hindu and Hindu Dharma popular and fashionable in modern society. The usage of Bharat is now becoming mainstream. Many world leaders profoundly identify themselves as Hindu marking the extension of Hindu Resurgence movement.”

Mata Amritanandmayi Devi, Swami Purnatmanand Maharaj of the Bharat Sevasharam Sangh, and Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami of Hinduism Today were honored for their remarkable contributions to Hindu society at the World Hindu Congress.

The inauguration also witnessed the acceptance speech of Mata Amritanandmayi Devi, a revered spiritual leader, whose words are poised to inspire and resonate, marking a truly memorable moment to inaugurate the World Hindu Congress 2023. In her address, Mata Amritanandmayi shares, “A very powerful vibration pervades every particle of sand, every atom and the very atmosphere of our country Bharat. It is the vibrations of Vedic chants and spiritual austerity performed by countless ancient Rishis, it is the pulsation of spiritual power. This is the invaluable specialty of Sanatan Dharma.” 

A special message by His Excellency Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister, Kingdom of Thailand was read out at the WHC 2023. It read, “Thailand is honoured to host the World Hindu Congress 2023, which brings together individuals from across the globe bound by the principles and values of Hindu Dharma. This gathering provides us with a unique opportunity to celebrate our shared Dharmic heritage.” 

A momentous declaration encapsulating the collective voice of the global Hindu community was unveiled in the Plenary Session 2 at the World Hindu Congress. In its official declaration, the World Hindu Congress strongly condemns unwarranted criticism of Hindutva and Sanatan Dharma. It also dispels the 150 years old conspiracy to limit Hindu with “ism” i.e. Hinduism. Intellectually dishonest terminology is the seed behind the vicious anti-Hindu narratives. The global Hindu community is urged to unite in promoting and embodying Hindutva, which can be loosely translated as Hinduness; through collaborative global initiatives. The declaration was accepted at the Plenary Session amidst the presence of delegates from 61 countries.

PATTAYA, Thailand – The vibrant city of Pattaya illuminated with a dazzling display of lights, culture, and community spirit as the Diwali Festival 2023 graced its shores on November 18. Spearheaded by the Thai-Indian Business Association Pattaya (TIPBA) and the Indian Community Pattaya (ICP), in collaboration with Pattaya City, the festival was a strategic endeavor to promote tourism and raise awareness of Diwali, captivating both Thai and international tourists.

The event unfolded as a tapestry of captivating experiences, enticing visitors with booths showcasing exquisite Indian jewelry, a tantalizing gastronomic journey of Indian flavors, and mesmerizing Diwali-themed light and sound displays. The ground transformed into a canvas for intricate rangoli art, while the air hummed with the warmth of Diya decorations, creating an ambiance of pure enchantment.

Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, a staunch advocate for cultural exchange, underscored the event’s cultural significance. He eloquently articulated the festival’s role in fostering beautiful ties between Thailand and India, expressing the hope that it would not only showcase India’s rich traditions but also provide support to local SMEs presenting Indian products. Moreover, the festival aimed to actively engage the Indian tourist demographic, recognizing their pivotal role in boosting tourism in Pattaya.

The Diwali Festival 2023 served as a testament to the power of cultural exchange, fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities while simultaneously promoting tourism and economic growth. It was a celebration of light, of hope, and of the unbreakable bonds that connect people from all walks of life.

The Embassy of India and Northeast Indian Society hosted a groundbreaking Indian Diaspora Teachers Meet, bringing together educators to explore ‘Challenges and Rhymes of Indian Teachers in Thailand.

In a groundbreaking event facilitated by the Embassy of India and Northeast Indian Society, the Indian Diaspora Teachers Meet gathered school and university educators for a thought-provoking exploration under the theme “Challenges and Triumphs of Indian Teachers in Thailand.” The program was held on 18th November 2023 in Rembrandt Hotel In Sukhumvit . Dr. Manisha Bose, a distinguished faculty member from Assumption University, adeptly moderated the discussion, underscoring the organic evolution of Indian teachers into mentors, driven by a deep-seated genetic memory of the guru tradition.

The panelists, including Alka Pandey (Director, International Pioneer School), Dr. Brinesh Pillai (Research Professor, Mahidol University), Shirley Roy (Phuket International School), and Dr. Montri (Krusapa), engaged in a dynamic exchange, illuminating the cultural competence and social intelligence of Indian teachers, honed through exposure to diverse environments. The esteemed Indian Ambassador, H.E Nagesh Singh, graced the occasion as the chief guest, delivering an insightful address.

Dr. Manisha highlighted the unique qualities of Indian teachers, drawing from her experience mentoring educators in urban, rural, and Thai settings. The event served as a platform for both panelists and the audience to delve into pressing issues, with questions skillfully addressed within the limited time frame.

Beyond discussions, the program featured a captivating cultural presentation by the Northeast region. The evening, held at Rembrandt Hotel on November 18th, seamlessly blended education and culture, marking a resounding success for the Indian Diaspora Teachers Meet. Deputy Chief of Mission Poulami Tripathi was also present to grace the occasion.

According to available data, the number of Indian teachers in Thailand has been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2016, there were 1,532 Indian teachers in Thailand. In 2017, this number increased to 1,789. In 2018, it increased to 2,034. And in 2019, it increased to 2,321.

This event marked the first time a platform of this capacity was provided for teachers, where insightful discussions took place. Additionally, senior teachers were acknowledged and facilitated for their significant contributions. The presence of Ambassador H.E Nagesh Singh and DCM Poulami Tripathi underscored the significance of the event in fostering stronger ties between the Indian diaspora and Thailand’s education sector. Such discussions are crucial in promoting a deeper understanding of the contributions that Indian educators can make to the Thai educational landscape. The Embassy of India and Northeast Indian Society extend their gratitude to all participants and look forward to continued collaboration in advancing educational excellence.