1. TEMPLES
DR.
SHRINIWAS
KASHALIKAR

2. The association of traffic jam, dirtiness, queues
of pathetic looking beggars; reported indulgence
in marihuana, sexual abuse and other
perversions, monitory corruption; interference of
petty politics, vested interests and criminal
elements in the management; unauthorized
nature of constructions etc lead to serious doubts
about the beneficial aspects of temples. They
appear to be at best centers of escapism and
sterile solace; totally cut off from the day to day
transactions and the challenges therein. This
leads to propagation of superstitions on the one
hand and reactive and well meaning but
inappropriate criticism of the temples on the
other hand.
Majority of the temples have become
economically helpless and parasitic institutions
dependent on the mercy of government, grace of
leaders involved in partisan politics, sympathy of

3. donors (without discretion to their character)
and volunteers gathering with ulterior motives.
Thus celebrations and devotional activities have
become means of extortions and sociopolitical
weightage and electoral politics.
Why has this happened?
The individualistic pursuits and petty
considerations (Kaliyug) have taken toll of the
original ideas, concepts and functioning of
temples. As a result, the centers of excellence in
every possible way; which served to emancipate
individuals and the society and emanated
rejuvenating and revitalizing influence on most
of the individuals visiting and participating in the
temple activities (conducive to individual and
global blossoming); have become diseased
institutions or the focuses of diseases.

4. Can this be rectified?
Yes.
The ever nurturing core of cosmos and the
cosmic consciousness is NAMA and
NAMASMARAN is the way for all. Through
NAMASMARAN we can re-explore, rejuvenate
and reestablish the glorious functioning of
temples in all their richness and their
benevolence!
Thus holistic agricultural, horticultural, cow
rearing, related industries, health and fitness
centers, holistic educational activities; can spring
from the enlightenment integral to
NAMASMARAN!
Even the laws related to temples can emerge
more accurate and benevolent; if concerned
individuals practice NAMASMARAN.