Visitors from across India and the world joined together to pray and pledge for world peace on the banks of the river Ganga in the wake of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, the violence in Beirut and the refugee crisis across Europe.
led by the founder of Parmarth Niketan, Swami Chidanand Saraswati and Sadhvi Bhagawati, a joint prayer was held on Wednesday with lighting of earthen oil lamps for peace and universal brotherhood. The participants committed themselves to the cause as they pledged in unison with closed eyes.
Speaking to The Pioneer, Chidanand swami said, “We all prayed for the Paris attack victims and pledged along with the pilgrims and visitors for world peace. We are one family. For those who have lost their lives and their loved ones, we join with them in this moment of grief. The time has come when we must introspect."
Addressing the gathering, the Sadhvi asked them to not just light candles but also become that light themselves from which countless candles would be lit. A song for world peace was sung in the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, bringing together the global family with the sacred chanting of ‘Om Shalom Salam Amen’, signifying a yogic union of countries, cultures, colors and creeds.