Ram Navami signifies time for increased member participation
Religious gatherings on a timely basis is vital for the sustainability of a religious faith.
This is the Ram Navami message by the Tovata Navyuwake Ramayan Mandali president, Rajesh Kumar, in Labasa yesterday. Members celebrated the final day of prayers of the holy occasion to mark the birth of lord Vishnu’s avatar, lord Rama.
The nine days of prayers saw Hindus avoid meat and meat containing foods consumption. Mr Kumar said the celebration described the key role of Hindu followers to grow their faith and increase in number.
He said with more modern advancements, members had drifted their interest in such engagements rather than religious activites.
Mr Kumar said gatherings such as this was to encourage young people to learn religious texts, songs and ways of life.
Close to 25 members attended the auspicious celebration yesterday. He said the teachings of lord Rama was based on truth, righteousness and morality.
“All our followers must live the life of lord Rama and follow his teachings to prosper in life,” he said.
A sugarcane farmer by profession, Mr Kumar, said his forefathers gave him the responsibility to continue this group and grow the faith in this community.
“We engage with our members only on a fortnightly or three week period as there are less members now, however, we make an attend every gathering as possible.”
The 59-year-old said funds collected during this auspicious period either donated by previous members overseas or locally, help with the mandala premises maintenance.
He shared his message of love and unity to prevail among all religions in Fiji and for the prosperity of this nation.
Minister for Sugar and MultiEthnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, shared similar sentiments on the day.
Mr Singh believed followers must adapt a compassionate heart to serve their faith of Hinduism with utmost diligence.