Rationalist Bhagavan’s speech sparks controversy

Rationalist Bhagavan’s speech sparks controversy

Mysuru (UNI) Controversy erupted at an interaction session of the ongoing 83rd Akhila Bharatha Kannada Sahitya Sammelana after Rationalist Prof K S Bhagavan made statement on word “Hindu”. As part of the Sammelana, an interaction programme on ‘Neglected section of people’ was organised at the Maharaja Centenary Hall, presided by writer and social thinker Prof K S Bhagavan.

Speaking at the end of the programme, Prof Bhagavan said, “There is no word or reference to the word ‘Hindu’ in either four Vedas or in the Puranas. If we deeply look into the origin of the word it takes back to the year 1030. The Persian word ‘Hindu’ was mentioned instead of ‘Sindhu.’ The people living in the Sindhu belt or Sindhu region were thus came to be known as Hindu. But today people in the name of religion are dividing the society.”

“Today there is a ‘Dharam Sansad’ held in the Udupi while the Kannada Sahitya Sammelana is happening here. They are discussing over the religion and construction of Ram Mandir while we are discussing here about the neglected people and downtrodden in the society. They worship Rama, who sent his pregnant wife to forest and
ask people to worship him in temple. It is high time for us to not fall into the pit of lies.” he added.

“There is a saying that people can rest in peace when they have a sudden demise. According to me, the death of senior Journalist and activist Gauri Lankesh was sudden. She died by debating what was true. I, sometimes wish to have a sudden death like her, one or the other day everyone has to die. Hence, without any suffering or
health issues I wish to have a sudden death,” said Prof Bhagavan. There was a strong objection from a section of the audience and tension prevailed for some time during the session when Prof Bhagavan made remarks on Lord Rama. A lady from the balcony objected his statement and staged a protest.