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Rally against conversion launched

Staff Correspondent

Seer tells people to uphold plurality of Indian culture

CHITRADURGA: The pontiff of Sri Murugha Mutt, Sri Shivamurthy Murugharajendra Sharanaru, has taken objection to religious conversion.

Launching a rally against conversion after a padayatra at Mathada Kurubarahatti in Chitradurga on Thursday, where it is alleged that around 40 families have been converted, he urged people not to succumb to pressure from missionaries.

"We know that some people are trying to allure you with the promise of money, jobs and other incentives. But they are very short-term measures and they will not help in the long run. So, do not walk into the trap from which you cannot return," he told the people.

He underlined the importance of the local culture, heritage and religious equality, which are inherent qualities of Basava Dharma.

The seer stressed the importance of safeguarding the plurality of Indian culture and heritage. "The main reasons for such conversions are ignorance, illiteracy and poverty. But these should not be the excuses to move away from one's religion. All these problems can be overcome with proper guidance," he said.

Equality

Religious equality is the essence of the Sharana culture and it should be protected to avert any damage to society, he said.

He called upon swamijis and sadhakas from various communities to educate people about the evils of religious conversions.

Sri Basavamurthy Madara Channaiah Swamiji of Madara Channaiah Peetha cautioned people against missionaries.

He said the campaign against conversions will not stop and efforts will be made to reach out to the rural masses.

Sri Basava Prabhu Keteshwara Swamiji, Sri Madivala Machideva Swamiji, Sri Basava Haralaiah Swamiji, Sri Siddha Basava Kabeera Swamiji and Sri Basava Navalinga Sharanaru participated in the rally.

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