200 tribal families reconvert to Hinduism in Valsad

SURAT: At least 200 tribal Christian families reconverted to Hinduism at Hindu Dharma Jagran Sammelan organized by Swaminarayan Gyanpith at Biliya-Aslona village of Kaprada taluka of Valsad district on Wednesday.

Kapil Swami, organizer of Hindu Dharma Jagran Sammelan, claimed that he along with his supporters was carrying out the work of keeping the Hindu religion alive in Adivasi areas of Kaprada. Around 700-odd members of 200 families were made to wear ‘kanthi mala’ around their neck after puja held for their reconversion at the sammelan to which sarpanchs and former sarpanchs of nearly 50 villages from interior areas of Kaprada were invited.

“We gave idols of Lord Hanuman to our brothers and sisters so that they can install them in their houses and also build a temple in their village. Around 40,000 Adivasis have become Christians in this area in the last two decades. We work to bring them back to our fold. We get support from some non-resident Indians based in the United States of America for our religious activities.”

Amit Patel, a resident of Detroit, the US, said, “Our community in the US will support this activity. This is good initiative for the adivasi community.”

Nirlap Swami, an ascetic belonging to Swaminarayan sect, said, “Religious

conversion

is a major challenge in this area. We build Hanuman temples and instill faith among the Adivasi people. We are trying to provide them basic education and also fulfill their needs.”

Suresh Kamli, sarpanch of Aslona village, said the total population of his village is around 6,000. At least 100 families, who are Christians, have built three churches in the village. They believe they would not fall ill and saved from evil spirits if they follow Christianity.”

Valsad district collector CR Kharsan said, “I am not aware of any such function. Many such functions keep taking place in many villages. However, if someone complains to us, we will take action as per the law of the land.”