Indian spiritual leader Morari Bapu will recite the Ram Katha for the first time at the UN headquarters in New York, aiming to highlight the enduring relevance of the Ramcharitmanas, a revered Hindu scripture. According to Morari Bapu, the Ramcharitmanas conveys a global message that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. Having recited Ram Kathas for over sixty-five years, he draws on Vedic Sanatana Dharma, emphasising that it embodies universal values essential for today's world—truth, love, and compassion. 

On the eve of the nine-day Ram Katha recitation at the UN Headquarters' Delegates Dining Room, Morari Bapu described the event as a "divine grace and a step towards global harmony." He highlighted that this is the first time Ram Katha is being held at the United Nations, calling it a dream come true. 

Morari Bapu, 77, has conducted Ram Kathas in numerous cities and pilgrimage sites worldwide, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, South Africa, Kenya, the United Kingdom, the United States, Brazil, Australia, Israel, and Japan. He emphasised the need for collective efforts towards peace, love, and truth, reflecting the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam ("the world is one family"). "Ram Katha here is a prayer for supreme peace and well-being for all," he said. 

Beyond promoting peace, Morari Bapu believes Ram Katha offers guidance on contemporary issues like mental health, environmental degradation, and sustainable development. He noted that the teachings of the Ramcharitmanas align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting the importance of global cooperation and compassion. 

Morari Bapu emphasised the importance of addressing mental health issues aggravated by stress and competition, noting that good communication, or Satsang, serves as a powerful therapy for mental distress. "The Ram Katha will highlight these teachings, advocating for a harmonious and balanced life," he said. He added that the event is part of a larger vision to spread the message of the Ramayana worldwide. 

"Through Ram Katha, we aim to unite people beyond boundaries, fostering a sense of global brotherhood. Our future plans include more such events to further disseminate the message of the Ramayana," the spiritual leader from Gujarat remarked. The historic Ram Katha at the United Nations Headquarters is anticipated to be a milestone event, bridging spiritual teachings with global aspirations for peace and unity, and underscoring the timeless relevance of the Ramcharitmanas in addressing contemporary global challenges and promoting a harmonious world. 

Image source: Mint