CULTURE:Balm to frayed nerves 
By Renu Malhotra
In a world ridden with suspicion, and aggression, the recent interfaith meet organised by the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious dialogue was like balm to frayed nerves. The Inter- Religious meeting was inaugurated by Indian Minister of Law and Minority Affairs Salman Khursheed. The representatives of different religions - Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, J u d a i s m , Zoroastrianism- all came together on a single platform to comment on the prevalent global scenario and appeal for peace and tolerance.
As I sat there, listening to each of them, I realised how united we all were in our intrinsic desire of living and harmonious co-existence. The Jain Sadhvi Sadhanaji, rightly urged the gathering to go beyond words and religion to a state of 'karma', that is to take action for ensuring well-being and happiness.
Her passion found an echo in the words of Swami Shantatmananda, who emphasised the urgent need to be at peace with oneself and consequently others. The leaders agreed that different religions are like different rivers with a common goal to reach the ocean of happiness of mankind.
