The Hindu : `Purpose of religion is to realise social justice'

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Mar 14, 2004

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

`Purpose of religion is to realise social justice'

By Our Staff Reporter

CHENNAI, MARCH 13. Diversity of Hinduism must strengthen the religion and should never be allowed to weaken it, Sri Jayendra Saraswathi of the Kanchi mutt said.

Speaking at a three-day celebration organised to mark the conclusion of the 50 years of his spiritual guidance here today, the Sankaracharya said like various parts of the human body every person had a specific social duty to perform. One could stake claim to be counted as a human being only if he discharges the assigned duty. He said failure in that respect would lead to him being considered an animal in human form.

Citing `Periyapuranam,' the Acharya said temples, which were the foundation of Hinduism, had given pride of place for persons from all sections of society. There was no discrimination on the basis of birth or employment. He said a large number of Dalits had now started coming to him for obtaining blessings. He described it as a good sign.

The Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, B. Subhashan Reddy, felicitating, said the purpose of spiritualism in modern times was to realise social justice through better education and healthcare. In this regard, the Sankaracharya stood tall compared to other spiritual leaders as he alone achieved so much on the educational and healthcare fronts. He commended Sri Jayendra Saraswathi for having expanded his area of activities beyond establishing and renovating temples. His practical measures have helped the poorest of the poor and those occupying the lowest rungs of the social ladder to better their standard of living, he said.

Mr. Justice Reddy also recalled the Sankaracharya's efforts to find an agreeable solution to the Ayodhya dispute to curb violence and promote social harmony in the country.

The Union Minister of State for Communications and Information, S. Thirunavukkarasar, said the Kanchi mutt had set an example for other spiritual heads to follow in matters of spiritual as well as social importance.

While Justice K. Gnanaprakasam described him as the `ambassador of peace,' the chairman of the celebrations committee, P.R. Ramasubrahmaneya Rajha, highlighted the events organised throughout the year.

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