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THE FAMILY AND THE NATION
GARLAND PROJECTS
To achieve the above we resolved to undertake five projects and activities: (1) Celebration of inter-religious festivals; (2) Multi-religious projects; (3) Education in and with the ambience of unity of religions; (4) Inter-faith dialogue; and (5) Creation of a national-level independent and autonomous organization managed by religious and spiritual leaders as well as scholars and enlightened citizens.
INTER-RELIGIOUS FESTIVALS Every month in all parts of India there can be a multireligious gathering to convey the core message of the prayer of peace and about the basic truths contained in various religions. Such a prayer should be preceded by prayers from all religions practised in that part of the country by respective religious and spiritual leaders in the presence of the people. Each month the day selected could be a holy day from one religion. Regular conduct of such meetings by all religious leaders and people from different religions respecting holy days of other religions will send a powerful message. If possible, such gatherings can take place at religious places where persons from other religions also can gather on that day. People should also exchange pleasantries and sweets during these meetings, as is the practice in some parts of the country where unity of minds prevails. In addition, in order to spread the message of equality to everybody on that day, a langar (community kitchen and eating) can be arranged so that all people eat common food sitting side by side. We believe that if all the religious and spiritual groups build a strong connectivity, it is possible to turn these monthly meetings into mass movements for respecting each other's rituals and ways of life.
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