Temples of brotherhood

LUCKNOW: The mention of Freemasons Society, established during King Solomon''s times and is one of the world''s oldest fraternities, conjures images of a secret society dedicated to the true spirit of Masonic Brotherhood. This summer solstice on June 24 (Thursday) the Freemasons Society, that has been in existence for the last 280 years in the world and dates back to 250 years in India, celebrated Universal Brotherhood Day.The grand lodges where the celebrations took place across the globe are considered the ''temples'' where members are taught the keystone principles of brotherhood love, relief and truth.
Protocol for this society is a must and meetings strictly restricted to member masons only. They are presided over by Worshipful Master. Dress code with specially designed collars assigned as per designation in rank are worn in these secret meetings. This society is devoted to secularism and in each meeting the five holy books Bhagwad Gita, Quran, Guru Granth Saheb, Bible and Abasta are revered. Earlier, when there was no religion the stone mason''s customs and tools were their allegorical guides.
Even the brotherhood''s teachings for getting the three degrees for becoming a true member of the Freemasons Society are taught in the ancient way and through dramatic interpretations. There are four craft lodges in Lucknow —The Lodge Morning Star No 7, Lodge Independence No 33, Lodge Ancient Land Mark No 130 and Lodge Bharat Jyoti No 144. Anne Besant started the first Lodge for women in Benaras but it failed to take off.
Earlier, Chhattar Manzil and Dilkusha served as Lodges for meetings. Today The Lodge Morning Star gains in significance as it is the 7th in chronological order. Some of the oldest members are Right W Bro VN Kapoor who has been a member of this society for more than 50 years while Rt W Bro RP Khanna and W Bro AC Tiwari hold the distinction of being part of this society for four decades. Tiwari said that Universal Brotherhood Day was one of celebrations and for once even the spouses were allowed to participate in festivities.