Kerala Governor Calls for Cultural Awareness Amid Attack on International Students in Ahmedabad

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan addressed the attack on international students in Ahmedabad, highlighting the significance of understanding Indias traditions and cultural heritage. He emphasized that despite diverse faiths and practices, the soul unites all individuals. Khan recited verses from the Vedas and Bhagwad Gita, underscoring the teachings of Indian knowledge tradition.

In light of the recent attack on international students in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, for allegedly offering namaz near their hostel block, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan expressed concern over the lack of understanding about India's traditions and cultural heritage. During a visit to the Central University of Gujarat in Gandhinagar, where he was invited to speak at a national conference on Indian Knowledge Tradition, Khan addressed the incident and emphasized the need for greater awareness and understanding of the country's cultural heritage.

Promoting Unity Amidst Diversity

Khan highlighted the importance of recognizing the underlying unity that binds individuals despite their diverse faiths and traditions. He stressed that while people may have different ways of expressing their devotion and may differ in language, skin color, customs, and traditions, they are ultimately united by their souls. This concept, he explained, is a fundamental teaching of Indian knowledge tradition.

Reconnecting with India's Knowledge System

During his address, Khan recited several slokas and verses from the Vedas and Bhagwad Gita, emphasizing the rich knowledge system that India has produced throughout history. He noted that the majority of scholars in India were saints, and he quoted Swami Vivekananda's teachings, stating that a knowledgeable person is one who can perceive the unity hidden within the visible diversity of society.

Vulnerability of Knowledge Systems

Khan also drew attention to the vulnerability of India's knowledge system, citing the teachings of Swami Ranganathananda. He explained that while Indian civilization was renowned for its knowledge system, it became susceptible to conquest when those with immense knowledge ceased sharing it with the masses.

Ongoing Investigation into Hostel Incident

The incident in Ahmedabad involved around two dozen individuals allegedly闖入 the government-run Gujarat University's hostel and objecting to foreign students offering namaz near their accommodation. Two students, one from Sri Lanka and the other from Tajikistan, were hospitalized following the incident. An FIR was registered against 20-25 unidentified assailants, and nine teams were formed to investigate the matter. So far, five individuals have been apprehended in connection with the incident.