Prof. Dr Kala Acharya of K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, recently participated in the International Interreligious Symposium organized by the Focolare Movement in Rome, Italy. Acclaimed academics and activists from around the world gathered at the Maria Police Centre at Castle Gandolfo to discuss the theme “One Human Family” during this six-day symposium held from May 29 to June 4, 2024.
Focused on interfaith dialogue, the symposium was attended by around 400 delegates from 20 countries. The Indian delegation included Dr Kala Acharya, Dr Lalita Namjoshi, Dr Shubhada Joshi, Dr Meenal Katarnikar, Dr Priya Vaidya, Dr Prachi Moghe, and Dr Vinu Aram.
The symposium began with discussions on Chiara Lubich’s experience of paradise from various religious perspectives, including Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and Christian viewpoints. Participants addressed challenges and future directions of interfaith dialogue with insightful presentations from Jewish Rabbis and Islamic scholars. Topics such as artificial intelligence, economy for peace, and ecology were also covered, proving enlightening and enriching.
During her speech, Dr. Kala Acharya eloquently shared her reflections on the spiritual themes discussed at the symposium. She highlighted profound symbolism in both Hindu and Christian scriptures. Quoting the Shvetashvatara Upanishad (6.14), she stated, “It is by the radiance of the Lord that this entire universe becomes luminous,” and referenced the Bhagavad-gita (15.12), where Lord Krishna says, “The splendour of the sun which dissipates the darkness of this whole world comes from Me. And the splendour of the moon and fire also come from Me.”
Dr. Acharya explained how streams running into waterfalls symbolize the meeting between the soul and the Lord in Hinduism and, similarly, the soul and Christ in Christianity. She stressed the importance of intent in seeking the divine and cautioned against the distractions of material possessions. Drawing from the New Testament, she quoted, “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money,” and shared Swami Vivekananda’s perspective, “If money helps a man to do good to others, it is of some value; but if not, it is simply a mass of evil and the sooner it is got rid of, the better.”
The audience with His Holiness Pope Francis was a significant highlight of the symposium. A select group of delegates, including Dr. Kala Acharya, had the privilege of meeting Pope Francis in the magnificent Clement’s Hall at the Vatican. Dr. Acharya briefly conversed with the Pope about his encyclical “Laudato Si’,” which addresses environmental issues.
Dr Acharya’s visit to Rome and her participation in the International Interreligious Symposium underscores the vital role of interfaith dialogue in fostering global harmony and understanding. Her contributions and interactions during the symposium have furthered the cause of building a more inclusive and compassionate world, reflecting the true essence of “One Human Family.”
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