Author: Devika Jina
Publication: Asian Voice, London
Date: September 2, 2006
In response to A.M.A Pira's article in the
previous issue of the Asian Voice, I would like to offer some corrections,
as it appears that he is ignorant of Hindu teachings, especially those concerning
what he calls the "caste" system.
The Varna system, to give it its proper name,
is not socially divisive, but actually recognises that each individual has
certain qualities and capabilities, and these need to be developed as it is
essential for prosperity for the individual and for society as a whole. "Caste"
or "jati" is a matter of identity and pride for Hindus - it is not
used to discriminate between each other. It adds diversity and acceptance
of difference which is fully within Hindu Dharma. Such acceptance of different
"castes" is demonstrated by the countless so called "inter-caste"
marriages taking place in the UK and elsewhere. Even as far back as the Mahabharata
times, King Santanu married a fisherman's daughter, Satyavati.
Kings of all four "castes" have
ruled in India - this shows that the capability of the individual and not
his "caste" are respected, and that "caste" is by no means
a hindrance on one's progress in society. Even Shree Krishna, the personification
of God on earth, was raised as a cowherd, not a Brahmin. Despite his divinity,
in the Mahabharata and the sacred Bhagvad Gita, Shree Krishna is seen merely
as Prince Arjuna's charioteer until he reveals hiss divinity.
Since Mr Pira talks about the UK, he needs
to know that Hindu temples have free access for ALL regardless of religion,
never mind "caste". Temples and other Hindu organisations have leaders
from all "castes" and that they are elected for their skills and
capabilities, not their "caste".
Mr Pira has no need to fear for the wellbeing
of the "lower "castes", simply because Hindus believe in equality
for all human beings, regardless of their faith, race, or jati.
To illustrate the point that one's birth is
not relevant to the status in which a person is held, Hindus are proud to
have sages like Valmiki the author of the sacred Ramayana. As every child
knows, he was a thief but despite his "lowly status", by the grace
of God he was reformed and is revered to this day.
Mr Pira then goes on to claim that Hindu children
of a "higher caste" bully and taunt children of "lower castes"
in order to 'enforce their superiority'. I can say from experience that this
is so absurd and completely false, it made me laugh! I go to a Secondary school
which is hugely diverse in terms of religion, race, and cultural backgrounds.
I am proud to say that we have clear policies on integration and inclusion
in our school. Personally, besides never having heard words like 'chammar'
either in or out of school, I can say that I have not heard white people use
racially abusive language either. However, I know of times when Muslim children
have acted with hostility against non- Muslims. Many of my friends and I have
experienced religious and racial abuse from Muslims outside of school.
This abuse also occurs on a global level.
If there really is no 'oonch and neech' in Islam, why do Arabic Janjaweed
militia continue to enslave and kill thousands of Sudanese men, women and
children in Darfur? Surely if Islam preaches that all human beings are equal,
such acts of merciless cruelty would be condemned?
Hindus do not kill other Hindus or others
in the name of religion. Acts of violence that occur in India are due not
to religious teachings but greed and power. Is the same true of Shias and
Sunnis killing each other in Iraq?
Mr Pira should go out a little more and see
the world around him and consider what equality really means before delving
into subjects he is clearly ignorant of.