Hinduism not a religion but a way of life: Modi

After arriving from Toronto, Modi and Harper went directly to the Gurdwara. They took part in the prayer meeting and were presented ‘saropas’.

Addressing the crowd there, Modi said the Sikhs in Canada had won respect for India through their work here.

He talked about the preachings of Guru Nanak and the role of Sikhs in India’s Independence struggle. He highlighted the need for working for humanity as he emphasized how Sikhs had set examples in giving sacrifices.

Then, Modi and Harper went to the Lakshmi Narayan Temple where again he admired the Indians living in Canada.

He expressed the need for working for humanity through Hinduism.

Modi said, “The Supreme Court in India has given a nice definition to ‘Hindu dharam’. The SC has stated that Hindu dharam is not a religion but a way of life. I suppose the SC’s description shows the way.”

He said Hindu religion has worked for the advantage of nature, including wildlife, through the scientific way of life and said, “This can enlight one’s life.”

The Prime Minister also mentioned the UN declaring June 21 as International Yoga day with a record co-sponsorship last year, 125 days after he made a suggestion in this regard in the world body.

He asked Indian exodus to spread the message about yoga for the welfare of humanity.

He illustrated the role of Indian-origin Canadians in developing mutual relations at both the religious places.