In a significant act of recognition, Canadian MP Chandra Arya, who proudly identifies as of Indian origin, unfurled a vibrant triangular saffron flag emblazoned with the sacred symbol ‘Om’ on the grounds of Parliament Hill. This gesture was made to honor the ‘Hindu Heritage Month’ celebrated in November, a time dedicated to appreciating and commemorating the rich cultural, intellectual, and spiritual legacies that Hinduism embodies. Arya emphasized the need for greater political engagement among Hindu Canadians, asserting that they are significantly ‘underrepresented’ in the political arena.
This marks the third consecutive year that Arya has raised the Hindu flag as part of the festivities for Hindu Heritage Month, beginning in 2022. As part of a broader initiative to increase visibility and representation, this annual observance encourages the community to come together to recognize the contributions of Hindu culture to the Canadian mosaic.
Arya, a proud Hindu Canadian who has been particularly outspoken against Khalistani extremism, highlighted that Hindu Canadians are among the most successful and educated communities within Canada. Currently, they rank as the third-largest religious group in the country, playing a vital role in the societal fabric.
“We raised the Hindu flag with our sacred symbol Aum on Parliament Hill grounds to mark the beginning of the Hindu Heritage Month this November. As I mentioned upon raising the flag for the first time in 2022, a new era for Hindus in Canada has indeed begun,” he shared via Twitter, encapsulating the significance of the event.
Calling for greater political participation, Arya stated, “We are one of the most educated and successful communities in Canada, making solid and positive contributions to Canadian society and economy. While we Hindus are excelling in every sector, we remain underrepresented in the political landscape. I once again urge my fellow Hindus to engage more actively in our democratic process. Happy Hindu Heritage Month!”
Arya’s flag-raising event coincided closely with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Diwali greetings, where he reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the safety and security of Hindu Canadians, allowing them the freedom to practice their faith openly and proudly. “Diwali in Canada would not be possible without our incredible Indo-Canadian community. Indo-Canadians represent the best of Canada – as artists and entrepreneurs, as doctors and teachers, as leaders in business, community, and culture. On Diwali, we celebrate them and the light they carry across Canada’s communities,” Trudeau articulated.
He added, “Diwali is especially important to Hindu Canadians – one of Canada’s largest and most diverse diasporas. In November, as we mark Hindu Heritage Month in Canada, let us join the community and celebrate. We will always stand with Hindu Canadians to ensure their safety and security so they can freely and proudly practise their religion.”
Amid rising tensions with pro-Khalistani elements in Canada, Arya has condemned acts of violence and vandalism against temples, positioning himself as a strong advocate for Hindu Canadian rights. He has been vocal in his opposition against the defacement of sacred sites and expressed concerns over the safety of Hindu Canadians amid the escalating diplomatic crisis with India, a situation inflamed by the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.
Last year, Trudeau leveled serious allegations against Indian government agents concerning Nijjar’s death, claims that were staunchly denied by New Delhi, leading to strained diplomatic relations. In the wake of these tensions, Arya voiced apprehensions regarding the threats posed to Hindu Canadians by pro-Khalistani extremists, including an alarming video message he received from Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Khalistani figurehead wanted by India. In this message, Pannun urged Arya and his followers to “move back to India.”
Responding to the threats, Arya reiterated the integral role of Hindu Canadians in the nation, asserting, “Canada is our land,” while highlighting their many contributions to the country.
Published By:
Prateek Chakraborty
Published On:
Nov 2, 2024
**Interview with MP Chandra Arya on Hindu Heritage Month**
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us today, MP Chandra Arya. You’ve recently raised the Hindu flag on Parliament Hill to signal the start of Hindu Heritage Month. Can you share what this moment means to you and the community?
**Chandra Arya**: Thank you for having me. Raising the Hindu flag for the third consecutive year carries immense significance. It’s not just a symbol; it represents our heritage, our culture, and the contributions of Hindu Canadians to the broader Canadian society. This celebration helps foster a sense of community and pride while also encouraging dialogue about our role in this country.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned that Hindu Canadians are underrepresented in politics. Why do you think it’s important for this community to engage more actively in the political process?
**Chandra Arya**: It’s crucial for every community to have representation in politics so their voices can be heard, and their interests addressed. Hindu Canadians are among the most educated and successful groups in the country, yet their involvement in governance is lacking. I believe that increased participation will not only empower our community but also enrich the political landscape with diverse perspectives.
**Interviewer**: You’ve taken a strong stance against Khalistani extremism and emphasized the positive contributions of Hindu Canadians. How do you see this balancing act playing out in your role as a public figure?
**Chandra Arya**: It’s all about honoring diverse narratives while advocating for the safety and security of all communities, including Hindu Canadians. I focus on promoting the values of peace, dialogue, and understanding, while firmly standing against any form of extremism. My role includes not just addressing issues faced by Hindus but also working towards a united, respectful, and harmonious Canada.
**Interviewer**: As a proud member of the Indo-Canadian community, what message do you have for Hindu Canadians as they celebrate this month?
**Chandra Arya**: I encourage my fellow Hindus to embrace our heritage and engage with the political process. Our contributions are significant, and our voices need to be amplified in the democratic framework. This Hindu Heritage Month is a reminder of our roots and the incredible legacy we carry. Together, let’s celebrate and promote our values openly and proudly.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, MP Arya, for sharing your insights, and we wish you a meaningful Hindu Heritage Month!
**Chandra Arya**: Thank you! Happy Hindu Heritage Month to everyone!