Ramakrishna Mission, Mumbai, in collaboration with the Inter-Religious Solidarity Council (IRSC), hosted the Mumbai Parliament of Religions on September 18, 2024. Held at the Ramakrishna Math in Khar, Mumbai, the convention commemorated Swami Vivekananda’s iconic address at the 1893 World Parliament of Religions in Chicago.
The program commenced with a gesture of compassion, as religious leaders distributed fruits to patients at the Ramakrishna Mission hospital and offered prayers for their swift recovery. The Parliament, attended by over 200 participants from diverse religious communities, was a platform for interfaith dialogue and harmony.
Swami Dayadhipnanda welcomed the attendees and outlined the Parliament’s objectives. Irfan Engineer, Director of the Centre for Study of Society and Secularism, introduced the IRSC and its mission to foster religious tolerance through dialogue and interfaith initiatives. Swami Satyadevananda, Secretary of Ramakrishna Mission, Mumbai, delivered the benedictory address.
Distinguished religious leaders from Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Jainism, and Zoroastrianism shared their insights and perspectives. Swami Devakantyananda represented Hinduism, Maulana Mohammad Faiyaz Baquir and Shiya Alime Deen spoke for Islam, Fr. Gilbert Delima represented Christianity, Swami Devendra Bramhachari addressed Jainism, and Homyar Nasirabadwala shared Zoroastrian perspectives.
A nourishing and delicious meal was provided to all participants, concluding the event on a harmonious and fulfilling note.