In U.K. non Hindus participate in this ritual. Such festivals are branded as pagan and heathen by Semantics’ books. These religions ban belief of “mother” applied to land of birth/domicile eg “vande matram” / ban worship of idol. Such participants are insulting their books/religions. Some participants use this festival to abuse Hindus, Hinduism or casting unsavoury remarks to sully ritual’s atmosphere.
Hindu organisers foolishly or due to inclusive/exhibitionist ethos invite such elements as television, press, activists who instigate hostile episodes. Many Hindu organisations or tolerate/are unwilling or are incapable to eject such miscreants. Hindus DISPLAY their rituals are paying PRICE of abuse and contamination by anti Hindus/hedonists and vested interests.
I therefore suggest that all Navaratri programmes must be advertised as worship and open to worshipful Hindus ONLY. This will allow organisers to kick out non Hindus/anti Hindu persons or media.
Commercial/hedonist programmes may be advertised as non religious where civic sense should prevail.
Ramesh Jhalla
By email
