NEW DELHI/KOTA – Some Hindu right-wing organisations created uproar over a multi-faith prayer session conducted at Bakshi Springdale School in Borkheda in Rajasthan’s Kota District, alleging that Hindu children were forced to recite the Islamic declaration of faith — commonly known as the Kalma. The controversy, which is largely based on an old video, has stirred tension and panic within the Muslim community and among school authorities.
The video, now viral on social media, shows students participating in what the school calls a “Sarva Dharma Prarthana” (All-Faith Prayer) — a practice followed at the school for more than three decades. Yet, instead of appreciating the message of communal harmony, Hindu groups focused only on the parts that referenced Islamic prayers and began accusing the school of promoting Islam among Hindu students.
The school administration clarified that the prayer included mantras and hymns from Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism — meant to foster mutual respect among children of diverse religious backgrounds.
“We have always promoted unity among religions,” said the school director. “For 30 years, we’ve held Sarva Dharma Prarthana every morning. My father fought in three wars for this country, and I myself am retired from the Indian Navy. We respect every religion equally. Education has no religion.”
A copy of the school’s official prayer was also shown to the visiting education department officials, which clearly reflects a composite prayer format. A recording of the prayer was played for them and statements were taken from students and staff. Officials reportedly found no evidence of any wrongdoing.
Despite the school’s clarifications and the absence of any actual Kalma recitation in the viral video, Hindu organisations have persisted with their accusations. Representatives from these groups warned of a large-scale protest if “action” is not taken.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net. Read the full story here.
