Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare…: Hindus in Bangladesh

Chanting the Holy Name

In the face of such trials, the Hindu community in Bangladesh has turned to the most potent weapon in their spiritual arsenal: the chanting of the holy names of Lord Krishna. Across the country, Hindus have been gathering in large numbers, raising their voices!

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna Hare Hare

This sacred mantra has become a rallying cry for unity and strength. For many, this collective chanting is not just a religious act but a form of resistance. By invoking the divine names, they seek protection, peace and the courage to face the challenges ahead. The sound of thousands of voices chanting in unison is both a spiritual invocation and a powerful statement of solidarity against the forces of intolerance and hatred.

The gatherings are more than just religious ceremonies. They are acts of defiance against the forces attempting to erase their cultural and spiritual identity. For the participants, these gatherings are also a source of immense psychological strength, helping to reinforce their resolve and to remind them that they are not alone in this struggle. In these moments, the community finds solace, courage and the determination to continue their fight for survival.

The Rise of a Martial Spirit of Hindus

While the spiritual resistance is profound, there are instances where the Hindu community has had no choice but to defend themselves physically. In rural areas, where law enforcement is often either absent or complicit in the violence, Hindu families have been forced to take up arms to protect their homes and loved ones. Traditional weapons, often used in rituals and festivals, have been repurposed as tools of defense.

Brave and courageous lady . To face this ugly human and pure evil EVERY HINDU/INDIAN must awaken, arise and act to protect and defend our Dharma and Desh. The ‘Bharat tere tukde gang’ is very active along with the thug who did ‘bharat todo yatra’! People MUST take it seriously! pic.twitter.com/O9nyqLpre7

— Vibhuti Jha 🇮🇳🇺🇸 (@VJjha) August 9, 2024

The concept of “bali”  weapons is rooted in Hindu tradition, where such weapons are revered and associated with the protection of dharma. In times of peace, these weapons are symbols of devotion and are offered to deities in sacred ceremonies. However, in times of war or persecution, they become instruments of protection. They the warrior spirit that is an integral part of the Hindu ethos.

In several documented cases, when jihadi mobs have descended upon Hindu villages with the intent to destroy and terrorize, the villagers, armed with these traditional weapons, have fought back fiercely. The ordinary men and women, defending their families with swords, tridents, and other ancient weapons is their dharma. It is a poignant reminder of the community’s determination to survive against all odds.

The Role of the Global Hindus

The plight of Hindus in Bangladesh has not gone unnoticed by the global Hindu diaspora. There have been widespread campaigns, protests, and petitions calling for international attention to the genocide-like conditions under which Bangladeshi Hindus are living. Hindu organizations worldwide have mobilized to provide support, whether through legal aid, financial assistance, or simply by raising awareness of the ongoing atrocities.

In India, particularly in West Bengal and the northeastern states, which share cultural and familial ties with the Bengali Hindu community, there have been numerous demonstrations in solidarity with their brethren across the border. These acts of solidarity are crucial, not only for the morale of the persecuted community but also in pressuring international bodies to take notice and act.

Hindus Are A Resilient Community

The Hindu community in Bangladesh has faced centuries of persecution. The partition of India in 1947, which saw mass displacement and violence, to the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, where Hindus were specifically targeted by the Pakistani army. Yet, through it all, they have persisted, their identity and culture intact.

“Hindus have Right to Live”

This is from the capital city of Bangladesh.

Hindu Community gathered in Dhaka to protest against the attacks on Hindus and Temples in Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/RjCJ5qJx2y

— Aditya Kumar Trivedi (@adityasvlogs) August 9, 2024

Today they face yet another wave of genocidal violence. The Hindus of Bangladesh are showing the world that they will not go quietly into the night. Whether it is through the peaceful chanting of the holy names or the resolute defense of their homes. They are standing firm in the face of hatred.

In the words of Lord Krishna from the Bhagavad Gita:

“Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, O Arjuna, at that time I manifest Myself on earth.”

The Hindu community in Bangladesh is embodying this divine principle. They are defending righteousness and justice with both prayer and action. As they continue their fight for survival, they carry with them the prayers of Hindus around the world.