Nirahar Satyagraha – Aatankvaad Aur Himsa Ke Khilaf ( Against Terrorism and Violence )
In the recent times, India and the world has faced increased terrorism and violence, severely hindering the normal functioning of public life. A particular trend noted is the increase of conflict related to religion, leading to communal clashes and violence. It has also been noticed that such trends lead to terrorist acts that challenge the integrity of the country—both as a nation as well as a long-standing haven of multiple beliefs, faiths and culture.
These divisive trends have led to enormous loss of lives and contributed to creating an air of discord and suspicion between various communities of the society. Many families have lost their breadwinners, their children, their parents and loved ones to this violence. The shock and trauma of such irreparable loss is difficult to heal and address.
Therefore, ManavEkta Mission is now initiating the ‘Nirahar Satyagraha – Aatankvaad Aur Himsa Ke Khilaf’—a proclamation against terrorism & communal violence. It is also a call for inter-faith dialogue, conflict resolution and prevention of religious clashes.
‘Nirahar Satyagraha – Aatankvaad Aur Himsa Ke Khilaf’is an initiative of Manav Ekta Mission, founded by Sri M. As you are aware, Manav Ekta Mission is organizing The Walk of Hope 2015-16—a padayatra,led by Sri M, for peace and harmony covering 7500 kms from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, spanning 500 days through 11 Indian states. Flagged off on 12 January 2015, the Walk has so far covered 2600 kms through the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Maharashtra in 165 days. The ‘Nirahar Satyagraha’ will be organized in prominent locations along the padayatra route—the first being at Pune on 5 July 2015. It will be led by Sri M, who will be accompanied by citizens from all walks of life.
The ‘Nirahar Satyagraha’is based on the defining principle of ‘Satyagraha’ (polite insistence on Truth) that peacefully claimed India’s right to independence and self-determination during the freedom struggle. It is about exercising the non-violent force of truth to bring attention to the evils of terrorism and communal violence that undermines the social fabric of the society. ‘Nirahar Satyagraha’ and Walk of Hope have a common objective: both seek a significantly restored nation—fit enough to be bequeathed to our future generations.
The initiative expresses solidarity with victims of terrorism and communal violence and seeks to ameliorate their cause. It contests negative tendencies creating divisions between people of different faiths, which can go to the extent of encouraging, organizing and committing atrocities. It resolves to resist any individual or collective act of encouraging, organizing and committing atrocities.
The ‘Nirahar Satyagraha’ supports positive dialogue between religions of India and aims for an atmosphere of interfaith harmony. It seeks to ratify the principles of tolerance and respect for the other that is deeply entrenched in all the religions. This conforms to the Manav Ekta Mission’s core philosophy that humanity, regardless of differences, is built on the foundation of peace.
The act of collective fasting will act as a catalyst to raise awareness and understanding—for humanity to live together peacefully. Everywhere, people are generally predisposed to peace and harmony and the ‘Nirahar Satyagraha’ seeks to manifest this—inspiring acceptance, reconciliation and respect for diversity in each individual.
It is a clarion call to the society, echoing Manav Ekta Mission’s motto: ‘Born Human, be Human, Every Step for Humanity.’
THE DAY’S PROGRAM
5.30 am – Starting Point : Balgandharva Chowk. Sri M garlands the statue of Rani Laxmibai and proceed towards Shaniwar Wada
6.00 am – Sri M and the people who are fasting would be seated on the stage
6.15 am – Introduction of the day
6.20 am – Address by Sri M
6.30 am – Chanting of ‘Om’, followed by meditation for 10 minutes.
6.50 am – A Hindustani Classical Music Performance by Mrs. Nandini Bedekar (Disciple of Smt. Kishori Amonkar)
8.30 am – 10.30 am – Participation of educational institutions. Walkers share their experiences.
10.30 am – 12.30 pm – Peace & Humanity : An Introspection Address by representatives of various faiths
12.30 pm – 4.00 pm – Participation of educational institutions. Walkers share their experiences
4.00 pm – Bhajans
5.00 pm – Arrival of Dignitaries
5.30 pm – Screening of the Walk of Hope film
6.00 pm – Sri M ends fast
6.15 pm – Address by dignitaries
6.40 pm – Address by Sri M
