Interfaith Dialogue Promotes Proximity

journey, a total distance of approximately six thousand kilometres had to be covered. This was the first journey of its kind that I participated in in my life. It was a journey in the form of a team. Besides me, the participants included Acharya Sushil Kumar, Swami Chidanand, Shantilal Muttha, Anna Hazare Sahib, and Justice Chandrashekhar Dharmakari. Acharya Sushil Kumar was a non-contentious figure in India who had dedicated his entire life to promoting peace. The unrest resulting from the Ayodhya incident made him restless. Meetings of leaders of every religion—Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian—were held in New Delhi. Finally, it was decided that some practical steps should be taken in this series to promote peace. This series began with a T.V. program on December 14, 1992. People of various religions gathered at Defence Colony (New Delhi). The T.V. team arrived there. Everyone was asked the same question: “What would you like to say to the country’s people in the current situation?” Representatives of every religion said that at this time, it is most important to establish peace and eliminate hatred. I also expressed the same sentiment in my own words. I further said that when people come together, differences arise between them, whether in one house or one country, which often leads to discord. Therefore, practically, the only way peace can be established is when the people adopt the path of peace and love despite differences. Another program aired on TV Today was a panel discussion. Acharya Sushil Kumar, Bishop Gregorios (Dr. Paulos Mar Gregorios), and I participated in it. Each of us presented