Caste Bills and Resolutions in N. America

The word “caste” is of Portuguese origin (Casta ‘lineage, race, breed’) and was used to categorize diverse professional guilds in Asia by European colonial powers in the 18th century, to mirror those that existed in late 16th century Europe. There is no reference to the word “caste” in any of the canonical Hindu scriptures nor in any other religious or philosophical school that originated in the Indian subcontinent.

The attack on BAPS, for caste discrimination bewildering.  We have a long history of working with BAPS and have always known it as an exemplary organization working for the upliftment of all Hindus regardless of “caste”, creed or race.  These attacks fit the recent pattern of characterizing American Hindus as castist in various forums.

Hindu Mandir Executives’ Conference and HinduPACT, requests all the mandirs, organizations and individuals to come together and sign this Dharma Coalition letter supporting BAPS