In Gandhinagar, the Kerala Governor, Arif Mohammad Khan, articulated concerns over incidents such as the recent attack on foreign scholars allegedly for their observance of namaz within the confines of Gujarat University’s residential block. He posited that these occurrences underscore a collective lack of full cognizance regarding the nation’s traditions and cultural legacy.
Addressing reporters at the Central University of Gujarat in Gandhinagar during a national symposium on ‘Indian Knowledge Tradition’, Khan emphasized the importance of events like these in fostering a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage. He reiterated, “Instances like this suggest that we remain inadequately acquainted with our own customs and traditions. Forums such as this offer a platform for delving into the essence of our cultural heritage.”
In his discourse, Khan expounded on the intrinsic unity underlying the diversity of religious beliefs and practices, affirming that despite disparate expressions of devotion, individuals are bound together by the commonality of the human spirit. “While our modes of worship and outward manifestations may diverge, the essence of our being remains unified; such is the essence of the Indian knowledge tradition,” he asserted.
Drawing from the wisdom of ancient texts like the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita, Khan extolled the contributions of spiritual luminaries, characterizing them as the true custodians of knowledge. Quoting the insights of Swami Vivekananda, he elucidated that true wisdom discerns the underlying unity amidst the apparent multiplicity prevalent in society.
Citing the observations of Swami Ranganathananda, Khan lamented the vulnerability of Indian civilization due to the reluctance of erudite individuals to disseminate knowledge widely. The recent altercation at Gujarat University, where a group of individuals confronted foreign students for their religious observance, resulted in two students from Sri Lanka and Tajikistan being hospitalized. An FIR has been lodged against the assailants, with police indicating progress in their investigation, having apprehended five suspects thus far.