VHPA Philosophy

These principles are enunciated in the most ancient spiritual literature called Vedas, considered by many as the eternal source of spiritual and secular knowledge for humanity.

“This whole world that has moving things, and which itself is moving, is pervaded by one and the same Lord”- The unity of one Spirit in the diversity of nature is captured in this verse.

“The entire creation is one interconnected family.” This captures the essence of universal brotherhood and harmony among people and with the environment.

“Let all be happy, let all be healthy, let all experience goodness, let sorrows be no one’s lot” – A Hindu does not ask God only for his own, his family’s, his community’s or his nation’s happiness, but he prays for the happiness of the entire creation.

Thus, respect for diversity, peaceful and harmonious coexistence with people of different cultures and faiths is the heart and soul of Hindu Dharma (values and codes of conduct).

To emphasize that these are not merely nice words of expression to conveniently use in appropriate places and at proper times, Hindus have actually practiced and lived by these principles throughout their long history. People of different faiths – Jews, Christians, Parsees, Muslims and others who were persecuted in their own lands have come and settled in India during last several hundred years. Even today, India is a multi-cultural, secular and a flourishing democracy because of the open and generous outlook of majority Hindus.