Krishna 'evil demon', says Russ Orth AB

A new 'war of religion' is about to erupt after a Russian Orthodox Archbishop has unwisely described Lord Krishna as an 'evil demon'. The letter from Archbishop Nikon of Ufa and Sterlitamak is extraordinarily intemperate for a 21st century Christian leader. Not surprisingly, it has sparked an international protest. You can read the latest details of the protest, to be launched officially in the Houses of Parliament next week, along with the text of the letter, at the Hindu Forum website.

Details of the row emerged in an article in the Hindustan Times earlier this week. It has also been on Interfax.

Lord Krishna is revered by more than one billion Hindus worldwide as the Supreme Lord.

But in his letter to the Mayor of Moscow Yuri Luzhkov, the Archbishop Nikon of Ufa and Sterlitamak described Lord Krishna as "an evil demon, the personified power of hell opposing God," and "a livid lascivious youth".

The Archbishop further requested the Mayor to ban construction of the proposed Krishna temple in Moscow saying it would otherwise become "an idolatrous disgrace erected for the glory of wicked and malicious ‘god’ Krishna."

He continued: "Construction of the temple (a satanic obscenity destined to be built right in the heart of the Orthodox Christian country of Russia) to Krishna offends our religious feelings and insults the thousand-year religious culture of Russia where the overwhelming majority of people, Christians and Muslims including, consider Krishna an evil demon, the personified power of hell opposing God."

The London bureau of the Hindustan Times has described the letter as "displaying stunning ignorance of the world's oldest religion." The paper said this week: "It is also evident from the statement that the Russian Orthodox Church is still embedded in the dark ages of religious exclusivity, which has no place in today’s increasingly pluralistic society.

"To call Lord Krishna ‘satanic’ is not only sacrilegious in the eyes of Hindus, it is also patently ridiculous as any student of Hinduism knows, for Krishna is famous as the slayer of demons."

By contrast, Hindus respect Jesus Christ as a specifically empowered personality.

"We respect all religions," said Bimal Krishna das, General Secretary of the UK’s National Council of Hindu Temples. "We think the Archbishop may gain some fresh insights into his own Christian faith by reading Krishna's words in the Bhagavad-Gita."

Ramesh Kallidai, secretary general of the Hindu Forum of Britain, said: "The motives for spreading such hatred is clear – it is an attempt to discriminate and harass the Hindu community in Russia and stop them from building a temple. It is unbelievable that a leader of such a powerful Church can make such disgraceful and dogmatic attempts to instigate tension between different religions. This is completely against all principles of multi-faith co-existence and cooperation that ancient and inclusive religious traditions like Hinduism stand for."

(Link to Religious bigotry blogspot ref comment below.)

Comments

[U.Ra]

Krishna-consciosness IS NOT A RELIGION.Religions are for the material modes and nature. Krishna consciousness is a vedic SUN-cult, begining with Brahma-the first deva(demi-god).Krishna-consciosness respect demi-gods, but-not demons. That's why Krishna consciousness respect Jesus Christs, but-not Abraham, Moses,Muhammad, though they will never confront and argue that. To be tolerant towards other faith-types does not mean that you have to be sort of 'communist'-to be spiritually discriminative. Krishna conscionsess aims at taking the soul out of samsara, in which are even Shiva and Maya. That's why those who worship Shiva and Maya may hate Krishna, because Krishna-consciousness tell you the NAKED TRUTH. No bodily conceptions!That's why all these demons and spirits hate Krishna and His devotees, who peacefully want to proclaim the liberation from the material world.

[Mikhail]

As far as ISCKON goes, it is considered nothong more than a cult all over the world!

[Mikhail]

Yes, Hinduism "respects" all religions, but what they dont tell everyone "up front" is that all other religions are inferior to Hinduism, and that practitioners of other religions, being inferior, must go through several more 'reincarnations' than Hindus to reach a blessed state after death.
As the Psalmist (Saint King David) tells us, "the gods of the nations are demons..." As Vladika Nikon mentioned...As usual, it is trhe same old story...make a remark Hindus or Muslims do not like-there is hell to pay! A cartoon ridiculing Mohammed brings on riots and threats of horrible deaths to anyone who would not immediately burn it~ yet, Hindus and Muslims offend Christians everyday-Hindus with such nonsense as "Krishna and Jesus are one and the same," and in Muslim countries, Christians are persecuted as a matter of course...yet, we cannot speak of this, and cartoons are somehow more important than the deaths of Christians persecuted by Muslims! I would think any Russian Orthodox Bishop would be allowed to have his own opinion-this is a good example-a Russian Orthodox Bishop has an opinion, and is, therefore, BAD-but Hindus blaspheme Christ, Muslims persecute Christians UNTO DEATH, and, these are things we cannot mention unless we be considered "bigots"! What a world we live in! God Save Us!
Mikhail

[SW. Bhaggoe]

We critize China for not respecting human rights. Why not critize Russia ?

The west should boycott Russia's products.

[SW. Bhaggoe]

Russia has no respect for human rights. In the west we critize China for not respecting human laws. Why not critize Russia ?

The west should boycott Russian products.

[Gopendra/George]

I have also read an Orthodox Christian book that somwehere inside is written that Krshna is demon,actually I baphtised as an Orthodox Christian,I pray for Jesus Christ with Father Amen who saved me in the most difficult period of my life,as also Lord Krishna who helped me to find my pure self back by chanting His holy name.
Jesus Christ by a way lead me to Krishna...
I have strong religious and spiritual experiences by both,both are together,not something seperated as some fanatical Christians belive,there is no way that Krishna is a demon.
I combine easy and peacefully Jesus Christ and Lord Krishna,up on my japa mala I have tied a small christian amulet that my mother gave me,in my room I have the image of Lord Krishna together with the image of Jesus Christ and the Holy Virgin Mother Mary,there is nothing to seperate,only unite together in peace.
Demons come to confuse our minds and seperate people,we need unity and peace,not war and seperation between us,by chanting HARE KRSHNA demons go away,and the mind can see clear that Jesus Christ and Lord Krishna is the one and the same.
OHM AMEN

[Martin]

"It is utterly shocking that a Russian Orthodox leader should say something like this in this day and age."

On the contrary, it is entirely in keeping with Christian teaching. If something is leading people down a false path, then it is the duty of Christian leaders to oppose it. I stand with the Archbishop.

[M S Sheikh]

I am a Muslim and I am 100% with Hindus who have been hurt by a totally false and uncalled for statement by a leader of Russian Christian church denigrating a Hindu deity. One can ignore such denigrating statements by ordinary ignorant people but when religious leaders who should know better make them they show their intolerant attitudes. Sadly this is a sure recipe for disharmony among different religions that can lead to violence and disasters. When will people, specially the people in authority, learn to respect each other's religions, beliefs and icons?

[A Roy]

It is sad to read about the comments made by the Russian Orthodox Archbishop Nikon against Hinduism and Lord Krishna.

Nikon may or may not know about Hinduism. He may or may not know that Lord Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead as revealed in the holiest of Hindu Vedic scriptures - the Bhagavad Gita.

But he absolutely has no business denigrating a Personage that he has no idea about.

It is a real pity, given that Russia projects itself as a 'friend' of India. Interestingly, President Putin was in India in January 2007 , amongst other things, to sign a multi-billion dollar arms deal.

It would have been the ideal opportunity to let Putin know that his country cannot do business with India on one hand and have Hindus insulted in his country on the other hand.

At the end of the day, I am confident that Nikon and his ilk can no long lasting damage to Hinduism. After all, this is a religion which is thousands of years old.But he has ended up looking foolish, at the very least.

[swamijyoti]

HINDUS PROTEST DEMOLITION OF TEMPLE IN KAZAKHSTAN
http://www.newkerala.com/news4.php?action=fullnews&id=55832
New Delhi, Nov 24: Scores of Hindus organisations held a rally outside Kazakhstan Embassy here yesterday to protest against what they called the harassment of Hindus in Kazakhstan.

Hindu groups said at least five Hindu houses and a temple belonging to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) were demolished on the outskirts of Almaty in Kazakhstan earlier this week.

Bajrang Dal activists raised slogans condemning the action of Kazakhstan government and said India should raise the issue at an international level.

"We are here to issue a warning to the Kazakhstan government and also to our government. Tony Blair has raised the issue but Indian government hasn't said a word. It's the question of the honour of millions of Hindus. We rise against any atrocity that is committed on Hindus. we know how to safeguard our interests," said Shailendra Kumar, a member of the Bajrang Dal.

The activists were joined by local residents in the protest.
"The world thinks that Hindus are soft and weak. We have come here to protest against such notions. We want to show the world that we are not weak or dead," said Rajneesh Goenka, another protester.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair also raised the subject with the Kazakhstan President during a meeting in London on Wednesday, Times of India reported.
A spokesperson of ISKCON community alleged, 'the rights of dozens of Kazakh citizens belonging to a religious minority are being violated.

Kazakhstan is the largest and one of the wealthiest of the countries in the Central Asian region. Although it was considered a liberal society, there have been allegations of harassment of religious minorities like protestant Christians, non-state-controlled Muslims and Hindu sects.
Kazakhstan is not a signatory to the UN's International covenant on Civil and Political Rights or to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
* * *
KAZAKH TEMPLE DEMOLITION: BLAIR CONDEMNED, MANMOHAN SILENT!
http://www.haindavakeralam.org/PageModule.aspx?PageID=2405

Dehradun: The BJP today condemned the demolition of a Hindu temple in Kazakhstan and expressed surprise over government's silence over the issue.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair has condemned the demolition of a Krishna temple in Kazakhstan but the Prime Minister of India failed to comment on it, BJP President Rajnath Singh told reporters here. He sought immediate reaction from the Indian government and suggested that it take up his matter with the government of Kazakhstan to ensure reconstruction of the temple

* * *

RAJNATH WANTS GOVT TO TAKE UP KAZAKH TEMPLE DEMOLITION
http://in.news.yahoo.com/061123/48/69oce.html

BJP president Rajnath Singh has demanded that India should take up the issue of demolition of a Hindu temple in Kazakhstan with the authority there and ask them to rebuild it. Singh who was here on the occasion of the conclusion of his party's Parivartan Yatra said it was a pity that when even British Prime Minister Tony Blair had raised the issue of demolition, India had failed to react to it.

* * *

[swamijyoti]

KAZAKHS BULLDOZE HARE KRISHNA COMMUNE
Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty
Date: November 21, 2006
http://www.rferl.org/featuresarticle/2006/11/1BC2B4F5-C8D3-4F04-BD3F-D6DA1B012C36.html
http://www.hvk.org/articles/1106/125.html

A Norwegian-based religious-freedom group reported that authorities in southern Kazakhstan today began the demolition of the only Hare Krishna commune in the former Soviet Union.

Forum 18 quoted a Hare Krishna spokesman, Maksim Varfolomeev, as saying riot police sealed off the 48-hectare farming commune before the bulldozing began.

Eyewitnesses said three homes of Hare Krishna devotees had been destroyed by mid-afternoon and that the windows of all other homes had been smashed.

Forum 18 said an OSCE human rights officer was monitoring developments at the site, which is in the region of Almaty.

The group added that it was snowing in Almaty and that overnight temperatures were expected to drop below freezing.

Forum 18 said the order to demolish the homes was issued by the Karasai District Court, where the commune is based, delivered on November 20, and is being carried out by court executors.

The religious-freedoms group also claimed the demolition "contradicts earlier Kazakh official assurances" that the authorities' long-running bid to seize the site was on hold, a claim that could not be independently confirmed.

The complex includes 13 residential buildings.

Forum 18 said officials would not respond to questions about why the structures were being demolished.

It quoted a representative of the Hare Krishna community saying that officials had pledged no action would be taken until the results of an official probe into the dispute.

[swamijyoti]

UK PROTESTS AGAINST KAZAKH HINDUS HARASSMENT
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/UK_slams_Kazakh_Hindus_harassment/articleshow/520439.cms

LONDON: British Prime Minister Tony Blair has raised the issue of alleged harassment of Kazakh Hindus with the Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev at a meeting in London.

The Hindu Forum of Britain alleged on Wednesday that 60 riot police and bulldozers assembled inside a Hindu temple in Kazakhstan and demolished five Hindu houses. According to the forum, the Kazakh government is allegedly planning to bulldoze a Hindu temple in the Karasai District in Kazakhstan.

In an effort to highlight the plight of Hindus in Kazakhstan, Ashok Kumar, Member of Parliament, has tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons.

The motion said: "This House, prior to the visit of the President of Kazakhstan, condemns the harassment of and discrimination against Hindu minorities in Kazakhstan; notes that Hindus in the Karasai district have had land, barns and cows confiscated, have been threatened with demolition of their houses, and denied the right to own land.

It further notes that Kazakh Hindus who applied for ownership of their houses were asked to declare that they were not Hindus, while non-Hindus who made similar applications were immediately granted ownership rights. The motion also acknowledges that the Supreme Court reviewed two cases regarding Hindu cottages and ruled against Hindus, without inviting the plaintiffs to the hearings.

Forum 18, a human rights website has linked the Kazakh President's brother to the demolition and land-grab attempt suggesting that the value of the land could be the reason why Hindus are being harassed and subjected to human rights violations.

"The human rights violation against Kazakh Hindus has caused worldwide condemnation," Sudarshan Bhatia, President of the National Council of Hindu Temples, UK, who is leading the Defend Kazakh Hindus Campaign, said.

"We ask for a complete review of decisions made against Hindus in the court, call upon the President to order the Karasai District Hakimat to have all cases against the Kazakh Hindus withdrawn and basic human rights values restored," Ishwer Tailor, President of the Hindu Forum of Britain, said.

[swamijyoti]

KAZAKHSTAN HARASSES HINDUS -- NEED YOUR HELP

From: srinandan@aol.com
Date: Wed, 13 Sep 2006 14:30:45 EDT
Subject: KAZAKHSTAN HARASSES HINDUS -- Need your help
Date: Tue, 12 Sep 2006 14:41:19 -0400

I am writing to you as a friend, a fellow-Hindu, and a voice of a community that needs your help and support urgently.

A small community of Vaishnava Hindus in Kazakhstan are being harassed to the point of persecution. Its a long story as to how this happened (I can share it with anyone who'd like full details), but the end result is that the corrupt local government obtained a court ruling (without even informing the Hindus of the court date!) and has used it to try to seize their land and bulldoze their homes and houses of worship. Kazakhstan has a history of harassing other religious minorities, as well.

All of this would be bad enough; what makes it even more tragic is that Kazakhstan is going out of its way to advertise itself as a religiously pluralistic country, so that it can attract investors. Kazakhstan, you see, has oil.

Ironically, Kazakhstan is hosting a two-day conference on religious liberty today and tomorrow! The madness has to end. ISKCON has organized demonstrations, in New York City and Washington D.C. for tomorrow.

How can you help?

1. As an organization, the Hindu University can sign on to a dossier, that the Hindu Forum of Britain is preparing, as a supporting party, or at least as a concerned party. Kazakhstan's president, Pres. Nazarbayev, will be visiting the U.S. next month, and we will present him with our concerns.

2. Individually, I'm asking you (as upstanding members of the Hindu community) to sign on as citizens who are concerned about attacks on religious minorities. Also, it would be great if we could get other activists within the community to sign on to this cause. An attack on any one of us, is an attack on all of us.

3. Pray. Its the most powerful force we have.

4. Finally, if you can, please attend the demonstrations tomorrow and lend your support in person. I'll be at the one in NY.

Wednesday, September 13, 2006, 12 pm to 2 pm In New York City, Union Square Park, 14th St. and Broadway entrance, In Washington, D.C., Kazakh Embassy, 1401 16th St. NW (16th and O streets)

I've attached a short letter appealing for help and the latest press release, so please take a few moments to read them over.

Thank you so much, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

With love and gratitude,

Yours in service,

Vineet Chander, Esq.
Director of Communications, ISKCON (North America)
Hindu Chaplain, Rutgers University
Communications co-chair, Religions for Peace North American Youth
Network

PS: Please forward this to anyone who you think can help.

* * *

Dear Friends,

Religious liberty is under attack in Kazakhstan.

In April of this year, in the central Asian country of Kazakhstan, a government-ordered bulldozer rolled onto a community of Hare Krishna devotees Vaishnava Hindus and threatened to demolish their homes and houses of worship. The bulldozer was stopped from doing that only because the horrified residents formed a human chain around their properties.

Since then, the local government has mounted a backroom campaign of harassment, intimidation, and political maneuvering to oust these men, women, and children and to demolish their temples. The Krishna devotees continue to live under the constant threat of losing their homes, their land, and their right to practice their faith peacefully. These people are law-abiding citizens of Kazakhstan, but they are being condemned as out-castes because of their religion. Local government officials claim that the decision to confiscate the Hindus land (without any compensation) was based on a court ruling that they didn’t follow the proper procedures in privatizing it. But Forum 18, a religious rights watchdog group, has documented a long history of intolerance towards this community (along with intolerance of other minorities in Kazakhstan, such as Baptists, non- state-sponsored Muslims). An official from the OSCE confided that It is obvious that the Hindus are being harassed because of their faith. And local government officials behavior makes it clear that what is being considered here is religion, not the procedural law:

The home-owners were told that they could only privatize the land if they signed a document swearing that they were not Krishna devotees.

Ms. Ryskul Zhunispayeva, who is a chief expert on religious matters in the Karasai district, told an interviewer on Channel 31 Kazakh language broadcast that As far as religions are concerned, they can exist freely in our country. There are [only] four world religions: it is our Islam, Christianity, Catholicism, Buddhism." (emphasis added)

According to Forum 18, Anatoly Portnyagin of the local land commission testified in a regional court that the Krishna community is a terrorist organization and that allowing it to function will lead to a second Chechnya in Kazakhstan.

The Kazakh Supreme Court heard the appeal to the case and rendered a verdict without the Krishna devotees or their attorneys ever being allowed to come and present their case. The Court’s supposed reasoning: they didn’t want the Krishna devotees to have to waste money to attend the trial.

Even a cursory study of the facts makes it clear that this is an ugly case of land-grabbing and religious discrimination on the local level. Perhaps most astounding is the fact that while this is going on, the national government has continued to promote itself as an exemplar of religious tolerance and pluralism! Kazakhstan is said to be aggressively pursuing the chairmanship of the OSCE. The nation has taken out a series of half-page self-congratulatory advertorials in the Washington Post, and on September 12th and
13th, Kazakhstan will host the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.

Devotees of Krishna, Hindus of all denominations, and defenders of religious liberty from across the religious spectrum have expressed concern that the actions of the local government, as evidenced by this case of religiously motivated harassment, simply do not measure up to the ideal picture painted by the national government.

Now, Kazakhstan finds itself at a crossroad. An oil rich nation and up-and-coming world player, Kazakhstan has already caught the eye of the United States.

And yet, there seems to be at least on the local level a gap between the human rights ideals professed and the actions taken by those in positions of power. By making good on its own promises of tolerance and protection, the Kazakhstan government can bridge that gap and prove itself a model of progress for the world to follow. Or by standing by and allowing this injustice to continue, the government can let that gap grow wider and more noticeable, until it makes a complete farce of what Kazakhstan purports to stand for. The world is waiting to see which path Kazakhstan will choose. But for the hundreds of Hindu men, women, and children who wake up uncertain of their future in Kazakhstan, waiting is a luxury that they cannot afford.

This is not a Hare Krishna issue, or even a Hindu issue; it is a matter of religious liberty for one and all. We are trying our best to articulate our concerns and increase awareness, but we cannot do it alone. We reach out to our brothers and sisters of all faiths and nations, to help give the innocent members of this community a voice that may yet be heard. Together, we can appeal to Kazakhstan’s national government to do the right thing and protect all of its people, whatever faith they may be.

It is not too late. We are hopeful that with your help, all of Kazakhstan’s citizens can enjoy a bright future.

On behalf of the Save Kazakh Hindus Campaign,

Vineet Chander, Esq.
Director of Communications, ISKCON (North America)
Hindu Chaplain, Rutgers University
Communications co-chair, Religions for Peace North American Youth
Network

For more information, please visit http://www.Forum18.org.

Media Advisory - ISKCON Communications
HINDUS PROTEST HARASSMENT IN KAZAKHSTAN
U.S. demonstrations coincide with Kazakh inter-religious conference
DATE: September 11, 2006

Contact:
Vineet Chander,
New York
(973) 471-2335;
vineetchander@yahoo.com
Anuttama Dasa,
Washington D.C.
(301) 299-9707;
info@icinternationa l.org

WHAT:
Demonstrations, with members of the Hindu community and interfaith supporters, protesting Kazakhstan’s harassment of Hindu minorities

WHERE:
New York City Union Square Park,
14th St. and Broadway entrance
Washington, D.C.
Kazakh Embassy,
1401 16th St.
NW (16th and O streets)

WHEN:
Wednesday, September 13, 2006, 12 pm to 2 pm New York Armed with signs and chanting mantras, Hindus will protest the Kazakhstan government’s harassment of Krishna devotees, on Wednesday, September 13th. Demonstrations, held simultaneously in New York City and Washington, D.C., will intentionally coincide with the Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana, September 12th to 13th. The protests, organized by the International Society for Krishna
Consciousness (ISKCON), are supported by other Hindu groups and human rights activists from across the faith spectrum.

Attention was drawn to the Krishnas plight last April, when officials in the Karasai district of Almaty attempted to bulldoze five private homes and ashrams owned by Krishna devotees, and were only thwarted when dozens of people formed a human chain in the bulldozer’s path.

It is obvious that they [Hare Krishna devotees] are being purposely forced out, Ninel Fokina, head of the Almaty Helsinki Committee, told the Associated Press. Fokina concluded that the local government was targeting the Krishnas because of prejudice as well as a blatant desire to usurp their land. MORE.

Forum 18, a religious freedom watchdog organization, has documented a long-standing history of state intolerance of religious minorities, including the small Hindu community. As recently as September 8th, Forum 18 reported that a Baptist congregation in Shymkent was raided by police during a worship service, and its pastor subjected to heavy fines for leading an unregistered religious congregation.

The local government’s discriminatory behavior has evoked outrage from the worldwide Hindu community.

National Hindu organizations from the UK, United States, Canada, Australia, and other countries call upon the Kazakhstan government to stop harassment and discrimination of Hindus, said Ramesh Kallidai, Secretary General of the Hindu Forum of Britain.
The Kazakh government has gone to great lengths to promote itself as a religiously tolerant nation. According to its official website, this week’s Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions hopes to raise principles of inter-religious dialogue, religious freedom and the role of religious leaders in enhancing international security. However, Hindu groups argue that harassment of minorities at the hands of local officials belies the national government’s lofty claims.

The Kazakhstan government hosts conferences promoting religious pluralism while those in power on the local level systematically discriminate against peaceful religious minorities, said Anuttama Dasa, ISKCON spokesperson, We appeal to the national government to do more than talk about religious freedom in Kazakhstan; they must protect the rights of all Kazakh citizens. For more information on the struggle for religious freedom in Kazakhstan please visit http://www.Forum18.org.

* * *

[swamijyoti]

DEMONSTRATIONS BY HINDUS BEFORE THE KAZAKISTAN EMBASSY IN U.S.A
http://www.hindujagruti.org/eng/phpnews/news.php?action=fullnews&id=920

The Islamic Government of Kazakistan tries to demolish Lord Krishna temple.

New York: The Islamic Government of Kazakistan is trying to demolish Lord Krishna temple and houses of Hindus in Karsai district. The Government’s action is illegal. On 13th September, staunch Hindus staying in U. S. A. held peaceful demonstrations in front of Kazakistan’s embassy in Washington DC.

The demonstrations were conducted under the guidance of Shri. Anuttam Das, the President of ISCON’s Hare Krishna temple in Washington. The demonstrations ended with a speech from Shri. Das. About 75 persons participated in the demonstrations although it was a working day.

It was planned to meet the officials from the Kazakistan’s embassy. In fact, an appointment was also fixed with them but at the last moment, the meeting was cancelled. The demonstrations were like a warning to Kazakistan Government to learn a lesson and stop illegal demolition of Lord Krishna temple. Otherwise, be ready to face strong agitation during the proposed visit of the President of Kazakistan to U. S.A.

In the month of April, the local administration had sent a bulldozer to demolish the temple and houses of the devotees in the area. The Hindus, Human Rights Commission and Mass media made a noise against the move and stopped the bulldozer. The countries like USA, England and India took a note of this incident.

A few months ago, a Conference on Freedom to follow Religion’ was held in Kazakistan. Members of ISCON attended the Conference and brought it to the notice of other members that Kazakistan is trampling the very freedom. During 12th to 14th September, second conference was held in Kazakistan. On one hand, the country is organizing such conferences and on the other hand, it is overriding the rights of Hindus who are in minority. A staunch Hindu said that the demonstrations were held to show the world, the true nature of Kazakistan.

[swamijyoti]

KRISHNA DEVOTEES HOUNDED IN KAZAKHSTAN
http://in.news.yahoo.com/060612/211/65091.html
http://www.ibnlive.com/videos/fullbvideo.php?id=12811
Monday June 12, 06:38 PM

New Delhi: Krishna devotees are building the only Hindu temple in Kazakhstan, which is dominated by Muslims and Christians.

But the followers of the international society for Krishna consciousness or ISKCON allege that the Kazakhstan government is persecuting because of their religious beliefs.

ISKON devotees in Almaty being dragged by the Kazak police. The devotees allege they have been manhandled and their homes bulldozed at the temple site.

Central Asia, ISKON head B B Govind Swami says, “There is religious persecution. They have come to our firm to attack us. They have accused our men of raping local girls.”

“This is not the first time this has happened. ISKON is facing this problem time and again. It has happened earlier in Moscow, Los Angeles as well that ISKON has been targeted,” says devotee Mahamantra Das.

These are pictures of the 47-hectare site where an ISKON temple is being built. The devotees also stay here. ISKON says even though this land is privatised as per Kazakh laws, the government is trying to single out Krishna devotees.

The movement accuses the Kazakh government of trying to confiscate their land despite a court ruling in their favour. The Kazak Ambassador denies the charges.

Kazak Ambassador Cairat Umarov says, "It is a legal case and should not be taken up as a case of religious persecution. When you speak about small community which has some civil problem or civil case you cannot project that picture to the whole Kazakhstan because in the whole Kazakhstan Krishnaites are having comfortable life."

ISKON has reported this matter to the United Nations human rights commission, British Parliament and has even informed the Indian Prime Minister.

Kazakhstan was the first country in the world to hold the first congress of world religions in 2003 where more than 20 countries participated and at the end of the meet a proper charter was spelled out on religious tolerance and cooperation.

Today the irony is that whether it’s a legal case or a case of religious prosecution but one thing is for sure, all is not well with the Krishnaites.

STOP RELIGIOUS EXTREMISM IN RUSSIA, SUPPORT KRISHNA TEMPLE
http://www.indiacause.com/cause/iv001_russia_temple.aspx

[swamijyoti]

HINDU TEMPLE TO COME UP IN MOSCOW
http://www.hindunet.com/onps/showarticle.php?pb=1&ag=5&a=23062

MOSCOW: The city government here will give land for a Krishna temple, ending a longstanding controversy over whether Hindus should have a place of worship in the Russian capital.

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dixit said the Mayor of Moscow had assured her he would allot land. This promise was also registered in a Joint Statement issued at the end of Ms. Dixit's talks with the Mayor.

In 2004 Moscow's Hare Krishna temple was demolished under a city development plan, and the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKON), which operated it, was offered another piece of land to build a temple. However, the offer was withdrawn following protests from the Russian Orthodox Church against plans to build a temple that would eclipse the Christ the Saviour Cathedral, the main Orthodox church here.

ISKON later scaled down its temple plan, but it is only now that the Mayor cleared the project.

STOP RELIGIOUS EXTREMISM IN RUSSIA, SUPPORT KRISHNA TEMPLE
http://www.indiacause.com/cause/iv001_russia_temple.aspx

[swamijyoti]

Krishna Consciousness Movement is Not a Concocted Idea
http://www.hinduvoice.net/cgi-bin/dada/mail.cgi?flavor=archive&id=20060327101846&list=hnl

As far as the Hindu religion is concerned, there are millions of Krishna temples in India, and there is not a single Hindu who does not worship Krishna. Therefore, this Krishna consciousness movement is not a concocted idea. We invite all scholars, philosophers, religionists, and members of the general public to understand this movement by critical study. And if one does so seriously, one will understand the sublime position of this great movement.
(-- Letter to Los Angeles Times)

STOP RELIGIOUS EXTREMISM IN RUSSIA, SUPPORT KRISHNA TEMPLE
http://www.indiacause.com/cause/iv001_russia_temple.aspx

[Balimardana das]

It is very unfortunate that the archbishop(Russia orthodox church) could write such nasty and crude comments on Lord Krishna.

He should visit India and learn the higher spiritual values rahter than indulging in dirty politics.

Thanks,
Balimardana das
San Jose, California
USA

[Adi]

This is a great insult to Lord Krishna who is the Father of all living entities. Church and their leaders are being political and short sighted. By stopping temple construction they are indirectly promoting the devotional service of Vaishnavas. This struggle will make better devotees and many sane people in Russia will take up Krishna Consciousness.
WHOLE PLANET EARTH BELONGS TO KRISHNA AND EVERYONE IN RUSSIA MUST ACCEPT THEIR ORIGINAL RELIGION, KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS.

I pray to Lord Narsimhadeva and Lord Krishna that better sense prevail upon the 'pseudo' followers of Jesus and they stop their opposition to Temple construction.

Russian State and President Putin must now show their secular nature and prevent this gross injustice to devotees of Krishna.

[swamijyoti]

VHP DEMANDS APOLOGY FROM RUSSIAN ARCHBISHOP
http://www.organiser.org/dynamic/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=122&page=30#1

Senior vice president of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Acharya Giriraj Kishore has demanded an unconditional apology from Archbishop Nikon of Russian Orthodox Church for hurting the religious feelings of one billion Hindus.

The archbishop in his letter dated November 29, 2005 to the Mayor of Moscow, Y.M. Luzhkov, has made undignified and unbecoming remarks against Lord Krishna and requested the mayor to harass the law-abiding and integrated Hindu community of Russia by denying and banning construction of a proposed Hindu temple in Moscow.

“The VHP is very much concerned and pained to know your misplaced observations regarding Lord Krishna. This global Hindu organisation strongly condemns such denigration and demands you to withdraw the uncharitable remarks against Lord Krishna forthwith and tender an unconditional apology to the 1/6th population of the world for having undermined and wounded their feelings and sensibilities,” Acharya Giriraj Kishore said in his letter.

He further states, “You will be well aware of the great works done by some Russian scholars on the great epics Ramayana (by Dr Barannikov of St. Petersburg) and Mahabharata. As all Indians and Hindus worldwide hold these Russian scholars in high esteem who have enriched the Russian literature by the Russian translations of the ancient Indian epics, we are surprised at your outburst that will only damage the reputation of Russia in the eyes of Indians. Such undignified outburst spreading disaffection between the people of your esteemed country Russia and those of India and elsewhere are below normal decency and courtesy of a civilised and cultured person and certainly unbecoming of a learned religious leader. You should have taken into account the history of our tradition and also strategic relationship between the two countries before making such atrocious statements. Please do not act as an initiator to destroy this mutual respect and affection.”

The copy of the letter has also been forwarded to Russian President Shri Vladimir V. Putin, Mayor of Moscow, Shri Y. M. Luzhkov, Prime Minster of India, Dr Manmohan Singh, chairman, All Party Parliamentary Group on Russia, Ambassador of Russia to India and Archbishops of Mumbai and Delhi.

* * *

[swamijyoti]

RECONSTRUCT HARE KRISHNA TEMPLE IN RUSSIA: BJP
Saturday, 18 March , 2006, 17:29
http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14165304

New Delhi: BJP today asked Government to seek Russian government’s intervention to ensure reconstruction of a demolished Hare Krishna temple in Moscow.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour Lok Sabha, BPJ’s Deputy Leader V K Malhotra said a new temple should be allowed to be constructed since the existing one was demolished. The design for the new temple has also been approved, he said.

Claiming that the Mayor of London and some influential bodies have supported the reconstruction of the temple, Malhotra said an orthodox group in Russia was opposing it.
* * *

[swamijyoti]

IN DEFENCE OF HINDUS IN RUSSIA
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1421241.cms
http://www.deccan.com/chennaichronicle/World/WorldNews.asp?#Website%20for%20‘defence’%20of%20Hindus%20in%20Russia%20launched

The Defend Russian Hindus Campaign has announced the launch of its website to coordinate the worldwide communication of issues surrounding the harassment of Russian Hindus by the Russian Orthodox Church and the Moscow Government.

The high-profile campaign, which was launched at the House of Commons in London on 18 th January by Lord Dholakia, Ashok Kumar MP and James Clappison MP with the support of leaders from the Hindu, Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities, had already generated worldwide interest after Archbishop Nikon of the Russian Orthodox Church called Lord Krishna 'an evil demon, the personified power of hell, opposing God,' and urged the Mayor of Moscow to stop the building of a Hindu temple in Moscow.

"There are over 60,000 Hindus in Russia. In Moscow alone, there are thousands Hindus of Indian and Russian origin (well over 10,000). However, this peaceful community is being denied a simple right to have a place of worship where they can pray, counsel and celebrate their faith," explained Ramesh Kallidai, Secretary General of the Hindu Forum of Britain.

Two years ago the Moscow Government asked Hindus to vacate their only temple in Moscow in exchange for a piece of land on which they could build a bigger temple. After the land was allocated, the original temple was demolished. After learning of the allocation of land to the Hindu temple, some members of the Russian Orthodox Church orchestrated mass protests and started a misinformation campaign against Hindus in the Russian media.

"Even before that many Hindus were victimised , threatened, bullied, even beaten and subject to violence in different regions of Russia," continued Kallidai . "Now we fear that such cases will only increase."

Supporters of the Campaign include the Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, who handed a letter of protest to the visiting Mayor of Moscow Yuri Luzhkov who had been visiting London on 14th January, and the British Minister for Europe Douglas Alexander MP who was on record saying in the chamber of the House of Commons that Britain would discuss the issue with the Russian Government.

An Early Day Motion expressing concern about the harassment of Russian Hindus and extending support to the Defend Russian Hindu Campaign in the House of Commons has so far received the support of 57 British MPs.

The new website includes a history of the harassment of Russian Hindus, latest news about the campaign, press stories, downloadable presentations, pictures and documents and contact details for sending protest letters. It can be visited at:

www.defendrussianhindus.org

For more information: Call Ramesh Kallidai on 07915 383 103 or 020 8965 0671
Email: Info@HinduForum.org

Editors Notes:
Defend Russian Hindus is a worldwide campaign aimed to build awareness of the harassment and discrimination against Russian Hindus by the Russian Orthodox Church and the Moscow Government. The campaign has the support of British and Indian Parliamentarians, community leaders and the media, and is led by the Hindu Forum of Britain, National Council of Hindu Temples UK, Hindu Council UK, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, International Society for Krishna Consciousness, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Hindu Council of Australia, Hindu American Foundation and the Hindu Conference of Canada.

[Ravindra Shinde]

Hare Rama ! Hare Krishna ! Hare Rama ! Hare Hare !
If we dont widen our view about religion it will be a pond , dried by the summer heat.
I always belived Hinduism is a culture, a way of life , a free flowing river which sweeps along with whatever comes along its flow.

I grew in mumbai and was educated in a cathlic school.My school has the biggest Church in South Mumbai and I am a regular visitor to the church. It gives me the same peace which I get when I go to the ISKON temple at Juhu or to the Hazi Ali Darga in worli.

Every region has some "Backward" people.
This person seems to be one of them.
He is backward in his "thoughts".

I dont recognise him to be an "Arch Bishop". My christian friends would not approve of such remarks. May Jesus forgive him for insulting my belives and spreading hatred.

[Kapil Dudakia]

It is always a regret when any country or faith allows one of their senior leaders to make such pronouncements. Hinduism and Hindus can never be diminished or destroyed by such acts. The only thing that the Bishop has proven is that he, and his supporting congregation, are certainly not Christians. It’s a sad day for Christianity, and even sadder day in the history of Russia. After all that has happened in that country, what a pity that they have learnt so little. As a Hindu my duty is to pray for those who have been victimised, and to pray for the bully who victimises. Both require Gods love and grace, but for different reasons. The final truth is, the Bishop appears to be subsumed in Lord Krishna to such an extent, that he is unable to move on without Lord Krishna being with him. Inadvertently, he has begun to chant the holy Maha Mantra. God does indeed move in mysterious ways.

Kapil Dudakia
MKHA - Trustee

[Syam Somisetty]

How unfortunate that an Arch Bishop wishes to make such derogatory remarks on other religions and their Gods.
1. It is not surprising that the minority appeasing Govt of India which has a Sikh Prime Minister and a Christian leader of the ruling pary has not taken it up with Russia just to show its pseudo secular color.
2. It is surprising that none of the Hindu Organizations in and outside India have not organized any protest marches to decry the comments of an Arch Bishop.
3. The reaction of Hindus towards this insult on their religion has been as usual meek. Everyone only understands the language of the gun. Instead of pleading with the Bishop to withdraw his remarks and the Mayor of Moscow to facilitate construction of the temple, Hindus should react the way Muslims have reacted towards the Danish cartoons of their prophet.

[swamijyoti]

RUSSIAN CHURCH: BIGOTRY & FEAR OF 'evil demon', ALL IN ONE!
---------

Russian Church responds to allegations of persecution of Hindus
http://www.hinduvoice.co.uk/Issues/2/Russian.htm

In response to growing criticism for its treatment of Hindus in Russia, the Russian Orthodox Church have issued a statement to the BBC claiming that Hindus in Russia were free to practice and worship as they want, but that "NO CHURCH WOULD STAND BY WHILE THEIR CONGREGATION WERE CONVERTED."

The statement has been severely criticised by leaders of the Defend Russian Hindus Campaign, who pointed out that Hindus in Russia comprise only about 0.1% of the country’s population and pose no threat to anybody.

"JUST LAST MONTH, 250 DEMONSTRATORS LED BY THE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH HAD TRIED TO STOP A HINDU FESTIVAL IN SOUTH RUSSIA ASKING ALL HINDUS TO ‘DROWN IN THE SEA’ OR STOP FOLLOWING THE HINDU TRADITION," explained Ramesh Kallidai of the Hindu Forum of Britain. "ARCHBISHOP NIKON OF THE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH HAD WRITTEN TO THE MAYOR OF MOSCOW TO STOP THE BUILDING OF A HINDU TEMPLE BECAUSE HE CONSIDERED LORD KRISHNA AN ‘EVIL DEMON’. AFTER CONTINUING TO HARASS HINDUS AND TRYING TO STOP THEM BUILDING A PLACE OF WORSHIP, HOW CAN THE ORTHODOX CHURCH CLAIM THAT HINDUS ARE ‘FREE’ TO WORSHIP AS THEY PLEASE? SOMETHING IS SERIOUSLY WRONG WITH THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THE NOTION OF FREEDOM."

Meanwhile Britain expressed support for the Defend Russian Hindus Campaign. Foreign Minister Douglas Alexander acknowledged that Hindus in Russia face difficulties in practising their faith freely and are unable even to establish a permanent place of worship in Moscow. He further assured that the UK will discuss the issue at an EU summit, which is part of the ongoing dialogue with Russia. Alexander’s statement was issued in response to a written question by Conservative MP, James Clappison.

Earlier, a multi-party Early Day Motion led by Labour MP Ashok Kumar expressed Parliamentary support for the Defend Russian Hindus campaign. London Mayor Ken Livingstone also expressed concern at the harassment of Russian Hindus, and has already discussed the matter with the Mayor of Moscow during the latter's January visit to London.

The Defend Russian Hindus Campaign includes Hindu organisations from the UK, America, Canada, Africa, India and Australia. The campaign was launched on 18th January by parliamentarians Ashok Kumar MP, James Clappison MP and Lord Dholakia to highlight the plight of Russian Hindus.

Analysts have commented that Britain’s support for Russian Hindus was in stark contrast to the non-committal stance of the Indian government, reflecting the Indian government’s long-standing phobia of being seen to be championing Hindu causes. The campaign has also been said to reflect the ‘coming of age’ of Britain’s Hindu community. Hindus living in western countries are generally considered to be very poor activists and lobbiers. However several recent UK-based campaigns such as the Defend Russian Hindus Campaign have shown that British Hindus are beginning to defy this stereotype.

* * *

[swamijyoti]

CONTRIBUTION OF KRISHNA CONSCIOUSNESS MOVEMENT

This is very important: Krsna consciousness movement is meant to save human society from spiritual death. At present human society is being misled by leaders who are blind, for they do not know the aim and objective of human life. The aim and objective of human life is self-realization and the re-establishment of our lost relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead. That is the missing point. This Krsna consciousness movement is trying to enlighten human society in this important matter.

--SWAMI PRABHUPADA

* * *

Stop Religious Extremism in Russia, Support Krishna temple
http://www.indiacause.com/cause/iv001_russia_temple.aspx
=======================

[Madhavendu das, ISKCON, Vrindavan. India]

Everyone wants to enjoy and control this material nature that is demoniac mentality. But the devotees of the Lord Krishna build a Temple of Lord and render devotional service unto Him. But the obstacles on the path of devotional service come in many forms to test the devotees. But devotees are very determined to the path of transcendental loving service of the Lord. The devotees of Lord Krishna will be very sad to hear such a nasty and crude comments on Lord Krishna by Archbishop.
They can pray to Krishna to shower His mercy, forgive archbishop and give him knowledge and understanding of His supermacy.

[Jim Wood]

Hi,

It's unbelievable that someone, so dogmatic and ignorant about the validity of the most profound religious heritage can be appointed as 'The Leader of the Church'. The words of the Archbishop indicate that he not only lacks knowledge of the great treasure of Hinduism but also expose his lack of integrity and gravity. I am quite sure that he has no future as a 'leader' and that the truth will be triumphant.

I hereby plead with Mr Putin, inviting him to use his common sense in the matter of deciding whether to have a new Hindu temple in the heart of Moscow or not. I have personally been to a number of Hindu temples in my travels around the world and especially in India and can safely say that the people who go to those temples are most pure, sincere and harmless human beings on the planet Earth who deserve to freely worship God in their sanctums.

Best wishes to all sincere seekers of God regardless of their religion.

Respectfully,

Jim

[gaurav]

Ahoy!
he has accidentally chanted the holy names of the supreme personality of god head.
This will bring him good karma and I am sure that he may have had read a part of the Gita by now, I have faith in the Lord and i know for sure that he will give him knowledge and give him a chance.... as he has given us all.....

The lord is testing us, for he knows we will make the temple and one day the whole world will together chant the holy names of the Lord:

HARE KRISHNA HARE KRISHNA
KRISHNA KRISHNA
HARE HARE
HARE RAMA HARE RAMA
RAMA RAMA
HARE HARE

[Gourasundar Dasa BhS]

My name is Gourasundar Dasa BhS. I´m the president of the Hare Krishna Temple in Curitiba, Parana, south of Brazil. The temple is associated to ISKCON (international Society for Krishna consciousness), and I representate ISKCON on the CGB in the south of Brazil.
I am writting to registrate my indignation about the declarations made by th archbishop Nikon recently refering to Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead to all hindus all over the world. The archbishop used absurd offences unacceptable to a serious religious.
It is a worldly knowledge all the atrocities that happened in the past in many places in the world because of this kind of attitude, unfotunately made by this archbishop Nikon.
There isn’t any reason to the Hare Krishna Temple don’t be constructed in Moscow, as the same way it exists all over the world. Many charities to population are made by the Hare Krishna’s temple from ISKCON in the whole world, as the archbishop said on his declarations, and he complemented saing that the Hare Krishna’ s devotees have a healthy and peaceful life. The Hare Krishna’s devotees never had, in any place of the world, the intention of make or declare a war, neither we have an intention to degrade any culture, as the archbishop Nikon wants to show.
Therefore, I request to president Putin, and in the same way to the orthodox church to review these declarations, and to considerate the real reason of the any serious religion in existence, that is the world peace, and not the fight for power or prejudiced offences.
I also request that before someone quote any passage of our sacred literature with the intention of misrepresent the knowledge, as the archbishop did, study the Vedic Philosophy Vaishnava, such as Bhagavad-Gita, translated and commented in many languages by the Founder–acarya of ISKCON, the His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada (Publishing company : BBT).
I understand the declarations made by archbishop Nikon were unhappy and withought any foundation, and we hope that these declarations don’t represent the position of the orthodox church because it could bring only misfotune and discredit to a institution as the orthodox church in Russia.
Thank you.

Gourasundar Dasa BhS
President of ISKCON in Curitiba – Brazil
CGB in the south of Brazil.

[Neil Shahi]

Hello,
A Krishna temple can only be a positive thing for Moscow and will add to the cultural diversity of the city. I see absolutely no harm from a new Krishna temple which will be used by peace and God loving people.

Regards,
Neil Shahi

[Mohinder]

ISKCON should also address how it treats its own members. Last year I got a leaflet and magazine outside Bhaktivedanta Manor Hare Krishna temple in Watford from some people who are banned from worshipping there. They believe the founder Swami Prabhupada is the guru, but ISKCON believes he was succeeded by 80 gurus. Still, this should not be a reason to ban Hindus.

[James Church]

The Bishop is welcome to his own opinion but it is foolishness on his part to presume that the mayor of Moscow would agree with him. I am not about to say Lord Krishna forgive him, but I would caution careful reflection and dialogue over intolerance and persecution of people of any religious persuasion.

[Jvala Schelling]

Hinduism – not just a religion

Dear Mayor of Moscow

I am not to lecture you on what is right or wrong, but to thwart a project of significance to many Hindus in Moscow, namely establishing a place of worship, is very despicable.

It appears that the Russian Orthodox Church shows very little understanding of its own philosophy by permitting members to make derogatory comments about another faith. The church also can’t claim it’s the only religion that should be practised; otherwise it would be seen as mingling church and politics. It is quite apparent that the church leaders are afraid of something unknown to them and hence try to interfere with it.

However, Hinduism is not just a religion, cult or whatever you would like to name it. Hinduism is a way of live to many people around the globe. It offers its followers a deep understanding of humanity. It also teaches to live harmoniously with one another and that is not only restricted to human beings but extends itself into the animal kingdom.

I encourage you to use your powerful position as Mayor of Moscow to allow the project to go ahead and give the practising Hindus in Moscow a chance to build a place of worship. I am convinced that the community will reciprocate by keeping you informed how the project will progress.

At the end you will be able to see for yourself what a magnificent place it will be. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Give peace a chance and consent to the plan of the Hindus to establish an undisturbed meeting place for their gatherings.

Your courage will not go unnoticed. I hope and look forward to a positive decision.

Yours sincerely

Jvala Schelling
Christchurch
New Zealand

[Shalav Chanana]

ISKCON has done a wonderful job, it made the archbishop of orthodox church utter the holy name of Lord Krishna. Krishna's thoughts must have crossed his mind many a times. I believe his sublime purification has begun, and soon he'll realise the fault of his ways. Russia's our friend, and we as indians would only give it the best gift we can, the process of krishna consciousness.

[Joseph Terrones]

We are living in times when ignorant statements against the religous faith of others is becoming more & more embarassing for those who make them. And If Archbishop Nikon is (obviously) uneducated as to what is religion and what is irreligion, then he should keep his less-informed comments to himself.

Let us see a Russia which will move forward and grow into something great -- not go back to the dark days when the common man was kept in ignorance and fear.

[Banke Bihari das]

With due respect to the status of the Head of the Moscow Orthodox Church, Archbishop Nikon, we beg to humbly state that your remarks about Lord Krishna, calling Him an “evil demon”, etc are to say the least, in bad taste and based on total ignorance. Krishna represents the substance of the most ancient tradition of religion enshrined in the Vedas (ancient holy texts of great wisdom). They reflect a tradition that is upheld and practiced by a billion Hindus, 1/5 of the total present human race in the world. Vedic civilization and culture is not only the most ancient but also the richest in spiritual knowledge. The adherents of this faith are now spread all over the world and constitute a valuable part of every society. Such an intolerant attitude to a peace loving and most tolerant section of humanity is shocking, more so because it comes from a person who is expected to know better. Krishna is a heart-throb of millions of devotees right through the ages. He is worshiped and loved because of His transcendental status. His teachings are a lighthouse for the shipwrecked and castaway living entities for all time- past, present and future.

Such unconsidered remarks are extremely regrettable and are hurting the sentiments of vast sections of peaceful humanity. We request an apology and restoration of our place of worship in Moscow.

[Martin Forsythe]

I have to say, it's a brave thing for the Archbishop to do.I may not entirely agree with him, but to a point I can see what he means.We, as christians know that to not be with God is to be against Him.So,unashamedly I ask,if shiva,krishna,budda,mohammad or whoever else does not agree that there is but one God Almighty and his risen son Jesus who died for ALL mankind? It's intereesting to note that once a professing christian speaks up against that which insults his God, the whole world is disgusted!So much for pluralism, but then again, who needs it anyway?

[Peter Ohlenschlager]

I once heard a wise man say:
Religion without true knowlege is either sentimental or fanatical.

[Bilal Patel]

I think the Archbishop's comments are ill-thought out. There is room for religious diversity in Russia. Having said that, I do not buy the excuses coming from certain quarters that India is so liberal as they make it out to be. There has been and is a resurgent Hindu far-right that has violently targeted religious minorities there. There is often communal tension there, caused often by comments like the one the Archbishop made.

[swamijyoti]

India allowed thousands of Churches & Mosques on her land. Can there not be even a single temple in Russia? Why is the orthodox Christian society so hateful towards the Indian culture? Religious Intolerance in Russia is shocking and persecution of Hindus continues in the 21st century. It is shame to note the efforts by the Russian Orthodox Archbishop to spread religious hatred against the Hindu community and the orthodox society's efforts to stop the construction of the proposed Krishna temple. Shame on Indian Government that is doing nothing over this issue.
But you sure can do your bit. Help this beautiful dream of Krishna temple & Vedic cultural center come true. Support this project with your small action and help spread the word. Protest the Religious Extremism in Russia, Support Temple
http://vivekajyoti.blogspot.com/2005/12/protest-religious-extremism-in-russia.html

[V.Yakovlev, Moscow]

As a Russian citizen, I feel ashamed with the Archbishop's activity. It is
definitely as harmful for the Russian Orthodox Church as it is for Russian
people in general.

[Mikhail]

The comments below focus on the religious intolerance of the Archibishop, and this is fair enough. Indeed, Russian Orthodox Church has never been tolerant to other religions: even Catholics have a hard time in Russia, let alone the Hindus.

However, I would like to stress the fact that what happened is not merely yet another evidence of religious intolerance, but also of the influence that Russian Orthodox Church has in Russian politics.

The story with the proposed new Hindu temple in Moscow has been going on for several years. The building where the temple had been based for more than ten years was subject to demolition to make way for a new motorway. Initially a relatively large piece of land was given to the Moscow Hindu community for the new temple to be built on it. Soon after that, a project of the new temple building was submitted to Moscow city planning authorities but got rejected, mainly because it was "too high" and would overshadow Orthodox churches in the area.

Later, the project was modified, but at that point, the land was repossessed by the authorities.

For more than a year, the Temple in Moscow has been based in a site-hut. Now the Hindus do not even have the ownership of the land where it stands.

Archibishop's letter to Mayor of Moscow is but one of the PR-tools that Russian Orthodox Church use to suppress other religions in the country. And, judging by how the story with the Hindu temple in Moscow unfolds, these tools do have effect.

[Shriniwas Wani]

Hare Krishna !!

Hey Lord please forgive him .. We invite him to study the Hindu literature and all the Vedas.

We Hindi believe in not hurting anyone's feelings.

Thanks that at least he has uttered "Krishna" ... He will get punya !!

[Sergeant Raj Joshi]

In this wonderful weblog I would like to challenge the following views:

(1) Whilst Lord Krishna is referred as the "Supreme Lord" this does not mean that he is referred as to Supreme over every other Faith, yet some of what I have read by people here indicates just that. This is wrong on our part. Any Hindu that purports ideas of Supremacy, as the Archbishop has done as a Russian, is similarly driven by racisms and a lack of acceptance of others.

(2) Whilst the Archbishop has done wrong we would be foolish as Human beings and Hindu people to do the same to him; he is after all a Human being. I feel he has already suffered pain. An apology would not be missed but welcomed. Otherwise there will be hatred on both sides.

(3) There is a comment on the log about a Mosque now presiding on the site of Lord Krishna's birth. So what is the point of this entry? This may be so, but to even loosely suggest that the Mosque undermines Hinduism is equally based on Supremacist arguement. Our life on this planet is temporary so to speak. And none of us own any piece of land really do we?Digging this debate will cause hatred and hurt. I, for one, will not associate with Supremacist arguement.

(4) Finally, clearly not all Hindu's are the same and some here have fundamentalist views that are not within Hindu thinking, pluralism or integration and frankly in the UK I hope we have more tolerance/acceptance amongst Hindu people. We can and should forgive but equally I hope the Temple is raised in Moscow, because that is what diversity is about.

[Vignesh]

In this world where objectivity rules, the Archbishop is accountable to give an objective analysis of his hysterical statement.

Tolerance is the motto of we Indians..Over the past 1000 years Indians have been so tolerant to so many religions that have come to take shelter in India.The Hindus of India,as history gives its proof, have been so tolerant and appreciative of the various religions inspite of so much brutality commited to them by the rulers who practiced those religions.
Considering this its really really painful to see She(India),Lord Krishna--who's Bhagavad Gita is the life and soul of so Hindus,and Her sons being treated so badly in a land to which She has done only good.
We the youth of India sincerely hope and pray that Russia will see its first Vedic temple to the pleasure of all Hindus and that Vladimir Putin will live up to the expectations of Indians all over the world.

Thank you..

Vignesh

[swamijyoti]

HINDUS SUBJECT TO RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION IN RUSSIA
http://rajeev2004.blogspot.com/

I had forgotten that the Hindu temple had been demolished, and this nasty letter by this Nikon godman fellow is intended to prevent the promised replacement from being built.

This is a serious issue that the Indian Govt should take cognizance of, but of course it won't since it doesn't affect the 'minorities'.

Imagine if a christist church was demolished in Delhi and the replacement was opposed by a swami minolta on the grounds that, among other things,

a) Jesus Christ was a hoax
b) Almost all their holy texts were swiped from the essenes and buddhists and hindus
c) Christism has caused the deaths of at least 100 million people through wars, genocide etc.

The USCIRF would be up in arms, not to mention the Marxists and the Vatican.
All we can depend on is a letter writing campaign.

[Ranchor Prime]

The Archbishop is to be thanked by followers of Krishna, for his foolish comments have drawn worldwide attention to his opposition to the temple being built, while thoroughly discrediting him and his cause. Now surely the mayor of Moscow must allow the temple to go ahead.

[Bunty]

Don't do such things, otherwise all nation has to pay cost of it.
So betterit is to make that temple more & more beautiful.
Lord Krisha will make your life meaningful