Posted by Julie Maitra on February 11, 1998 at 09:58:01:
On one of the Hindu discussion forums, a contributor announced that the Vishwa Hindu Parishad had launched a Hindu missionary effort to counter the aggressive efforts of Islam and Christianity to convert Hindus, often through unscrupulous means. He urged everyone to contribute. Where do we send our contributions?
I agree with Ram Swarup that a reawakened Hinduism will help others to discover and reclaim their spiritual past. In the March 1998 issue of Hinduism Today, there was a beautiful letter from a lady in Iran telling of interest among some Iranians in Hinduism and mysticism. HT confirmed to me that the letter was authentic. Missionary efforts are a means to reawaken Hinduism, and through reawakening Hinduism, we may be able to encourage seekers like this lady and the people she writes about.
On a related note, how is the VHP being accountable to its members? I joined last August (check this discussion board), but aside from a ballot and one issue of Hindu Vishwa, I don't know how VHP-America is using my money to strengthen Hinduism. The Web page is never updated. Similarly, I left my name and contact information with the VHP table at the Diwali Mela in the Metro DC Area. I have never been contacted. I know that from my previous experience with this board, that someone in VHP may take note.