CM: Guru’s message key to peace in difficult times

Thiruvananthapuram: An important lesson for the contemporary world from Afghanistan is that those who kindle the fire of religious fundamentalism will be gutted by the same flame. The teachings of Sree Narayana Guru attain global significance in this context, said chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday.
“Bloodshed in the name of religion and caste is on the rise across the world. The human crisis, brought about by this, is currently pounding humanity in our neighbouring country, Afghanistan. At times, communal hatred flares up in alarming proportions in our own country too. Communal hatred of people is at play in the case of Palestine and the issue of Rohingya refugees. It was the undercurrent of Kashmir and Punjab issues too. All these could be kept in check if people understood Guru’s message that all human beings are equal and no discrimination among them is possible,” he said, while inaugurating Sree Narayana Guru Jayanti celebrations.
Guru gave the world a message that would help them avoid the fire of communal and religious hatred. His message should reach wherever people fight over caste and religion, he added.
“He made a proposition that human beings are one and the same. Never before have we come across a situation where religious-communal and terror organizations strangled humanity in the present proportions. We should be able to march ahead by holding humanity above caste and religion. Only then, we can say that we do respect the Guru,” the chief minister said.
Vijayan said that efforts should be made to understand the personality and mind of the great guru. Kerala produced several spiritual gurus, but, only one Sree Narayana Guru could rewrite the history of his motherland. His message had its impact on other communities as well. Yogakshema Sabha of Brahmins and NSS of Nair community got their source of energy from the message of Sree Narayana Guru, he said.
Pinarayi Vijayan said a closer look at the installation of Siva idol at Aruvappulam would prove that it was not a spiritual act, but a physical act against social inequalities and caste discrimination.
“He proved that the right to worship is not the exclusive right of a few. He didn’t mean any greater spiritual meanings beyond that. Soon, he proclaimed that school is the main centre for worship...it would be improper to view the Guru as a mere seeker of spirituality,” he added. Vijayan expressed hope that the celebrations planned next year could be celebrated with much fanfare in a Covid-free environment.