JAMMU, SEPT 16: India’s spiritual and cultural heritage must be revived and shared with the world to restore the country’s traditional role as a guide in matters of knowledge, peace and human values, Shri Harikripa Peethadhishwar Swami Hari Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Ji said on Wednesday.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Swami Hari Chaitanya Puri said India’s ancient spiritual traditions carry a universal message of peace, harmony and welfare and should be presented to the world in their true spirit.
He called for a balanced approach in which science and spirituality complement each other, saying genuine progress requires both technological advancement and strong moral values.
Against the backdrop of conflicts and unrest across the world, the spiritual leader appealed for peace, communal harmony and universal brotherhood.
He also called for collective global action against terrorism.
On India’s security concerns, he urged Pakistan to end terrorism and infiltration, while cautioning China against any attempt to disturb India’s territorial integrity. He asserted that the country was capable of protecting its sovereignty.
Swami Hari Chaitanya Puri also raised concerns over social and environmental issues, calling for concerted efforts to eradicate superstition, hypocrisy and female foeticide, besides preventing pollution of rivers.
He advocated a complete ban on cow slaughter and stressed the importance of sustained awareness campaigns.
He said institutions traditionally associated with service, charity and social welfare should retain their larger social purpose instead of becoming merely commercial establishments.
“Religion should be reflected in our conduct and character and not remain restricted to rituals and ceremonies,” he said.
Emphasising the importance of youth, he urged young people to remain away from addiction and dedicate themselves to constructive activities, spiritual development and service to society.
“True empowerment lies in upholding moral values, fostering harmony and serving society. Jammu and Kashmir holds a special spiritual significance and peace in this region is essential for the prosperity of the entire nation,” Swami Ji said.
He added that he has been undertaking padyatras and awareness campaigns across the country to promote social responsibility, environmental protection, human welfare and spiritual consciousness.
President of Shri Hari Kripa Sewa Samiti J&K Rajeev Charak and M. M. Puri, among other office-bearers, were present on the occasion.
