By Matters India reporter
Kolkata, Dec. 21, 2018: An internationally renowned Jain leader says unity in diversity is the fundamental characteristic of Indian culture.
“It is our responsibility to preserve and promote the multiplicity and pluralism,” Acharya Lokesh Muni said on December 21 at a function in Kolkata to honor him. Heads of various religions in the capital city of West Bengal state set up the Indian Pluralism Foundation award.
Earlier on December 17, the Delhi government had presented Acharya Lokesh Muni the “Champion of Communal Harmony” Award.
“Religion brings us together, it does not create differences,” Achary Muni, the founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, told the Kolkata function.
He was in Kolkata to address the 11th International Conference on ‘World Confluence of Humanity, Power and Spirituality’ held at Westin Hotel, Kolkata on December 21.
He further asserted that religion has no place for violence, intolerance and hatred.
He encouraged all to follow one’s religion honestly, respecting other religion. “This is our culture,” he added.
Responding to the welcome in Kolkata, Acharya Lokesh said, “Our responsibility for society and the nation has increased more. We have to work with more enthusiasm, for world peace, religious harmony and uplift of all sections of the society.”
The chairman of the Foundation on presenting the award said, “Ambassador of Peace Acharya Lokesh Muni, who is continuing to work for social peace, religious and communal harmony and character building in the country and abroad, through the organization Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati founded by him is doing remarkable work. We are honoring him for the remarkable work of nation and society uplift.”
Acharya Muni was earlier honored with National Communal Harmony Award by the Government of India.