On October 11, 2023, Shri Samir Somaiya, the Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, represented Hinduism at the XXI Session of the Secretariat of the Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, Kazakhstan. The session, chaired by Maulen Ashimbayev, Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, served as a high-profile platform for dialogue and cooperation among various religious traditions and was attended by a distinguished array of leaders from across the globe.
Shri Samir Somaiya’s presence was especially significant as he stood as a voice for Hinduism amidst representatives from other major religions like Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Judaism, as well as lesser-known traditions such as Taoism, Shintoism, and Baha’i. Also in attendance were esteemed international organizations and honored guests, emphasizing the far-reaching implications of the congress for fostering global peace and interfaith harmony.
The congress aimed to foster an environment of constructive exchange, especially in light of the growing geopolitical tensions and conflicts plaguing the modern world. Participants engaged in discussions focused on the potential of spiritual diplomacy as a tool to initiate a global peace movement. This notion was unanimously supported and became one of the critical outcomes of the session.
In his role as the representative of Hinduism, Shri Somaiya contributed to various discussions during the congress. He emphasized the necessity for collective efforts to address pressing issues like extremism, violence, and the erosion of moral values. Drawing from Hindu philosophical thought, he advocated for peace, coexistence, and the spiritual well-being of humanity, positioning these principles as essential for global stability.
Several pressing global issues were highlighted during the session, including the aggravating situation in the Middle East and the importance of moral and ethical guidelines for the spiritual and social well-being of humanity. All attendees were unified in their condemnation of the desecration of sacred texts and any provocative actions that could escalate tensions between religious communities. Such behavior was universally rejected as a misuse of the notion of freedom of speech.
Among the significant achievements of the XXI Session was the adoption of the 2023-2033 Development Concept, a forward-looking document that outlines the future activities and objectives of the Congress. It aims to bolster the Congress as a platform for global interfaith dialogue and cooperation, further emphasizing the role of spiritual diplomacy in international efforts towards a secure, stable, tolerant, and prosperous world.
As the session concluded, participants expressed their gratitude to the Republic of Kazakhstan for its excellent organization and hospitality. The next XXII Session of the Secretariat of the Congress is planned for autumn 2024 in Astana.
Shri Samir Somaiya’s participation, as a distinguished representative of Hinduism, underscored the vital role that interfaith dialogues such as this Congress play in navigating the complex religious and geopolitical landscape of the 21st century. His contributions reiterate the importance of collective efforts in fostering a just, secure, and harmonious global society.
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