In Support of the Sarva Dharma Temple Bill, 2022

The Sarva Dharma Temple Bill, 2022, introduced by Shanta Chhetri in the Rajya Sabha, represents a groundbreaking initiative to bring people of all faiths together under one roof. The bill proposes the establishment of the Sarva Dharma Temple in Kolkata, West Bengal, a temple that will celebrate and honor the diversity of India’s religious traditions. This bill aligns perfectly with India’s secular ideals enshrined in its Constitution and serves as a beacon of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect.

Key Features of the Sarva Dharma Temple Bill

• Multi-Religious Unity: The Sarva Dharma Temple will provide space for various religious practices, ensuring representation from Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Sikhism, Buddhism, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, and other spiritual philosophies.
• Location: The temple will be constructed on the banks of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy.
• Architectural Significance: The temple will have an octagonal structure, symbolizing harmony and balance, with dedicated spaces for each religion.
• Promoting Religious Education: The temple will house a library with religious texts from all major religions, along with an auditorium for screening religious content and conducting spiritual training courses.
• Annual Religious Functions: The temple will organize annual functions to celebrate the diversity of religious traditions and foster communal harmony.
   

The Importance of the Sarva Dharma Temple

The establishment of the Sarva Dharma Temple would be a monumental step towards promoting religious harmony in India and the world. This initiative is timely and necessary, especially given the increasing polarization and misinformation surrounding religious tolerance. By creating a space where people of all faiths can come together, the Sarva Dharma Temple will serve as a global symbol of unity and peace.

Comparison to the Jagannath Temple in Digha

The newly constructed Jagannath Temple in Digha, set to be inaugurated in 2025, is an impressive addition to West Bengal’s religious tourism landscape. However, while the Jagannath Temple focuses on the Hindu faith, the Sarva Dharma Temple will celebrate the diversity of all religions under one roof. This broader, inclusive approach will not only attract domestic visitors but also garner global attention, making the Sarva Dharma Temple a truly unique and significant landmark.
 

Global Impact and Potential

Building the Sarva Dharma Temple in Kolkata would resonate deeply across the world. As India’s secular image is increasingly questioned on the global stage, this temple will stand as a powerful testament to the nation’s commitment to religious tolerance. It will likely attract international visitors, scholars, and spiritual leaders, further enhancing India’s soft power.
 

Conclusion

The Sarva Dharma Temple Bill is not just a legislative proposal; it is a bold step towards fostering unity, understanding, and respect among people of all faiths. By supporting this bill, we take a significant stride in ensuring that India’s secular fabric remains strong, vibrant, and inclusive. The Sarva Dharma Temple will be an iconic representation of India’s rich spiritual diversity, one that will be celebrated both domestically and internationally.

Written By: Adv.Tarun Choudhury
Supreme Court Advocate
New Delhi, Delhi