So, we’re in HSC, and we think we’ve got it down. We organize garbas and field trips, and maybe have a weekly meeting to discuss issues affecting our chapter. Satisfied with the successes at our campus and in our local area, we are content with living in isolation, cut off from other HSC chapters, the national body, and the rest of the Hindu world.
But I believe we also have responsibilities as a Hindu student towards not just Hindus, but the rest of the world. We must realize that as a Hindu student, we are different from everyone else in our cultural background and values. We come from a culture that worships knowledge, accords nature the respect it deserves, and embraces diversity as a manifestation of divinity. No other religious tradition in the world gives as much respect to other faiths and belief systems, as does Sanatana Dharma.
Below, I have listed a few duties that I think every Hindu student should try to fulfill. This is by no means a comprehensive list, nor is it a diktat. It is merely friendly advice from a fellow Hindu student, who is utterly unqualified to even offer such advice.
Educate yourself about Hinduism – Hinduism is such a vast and complex religion, that it may take several lifetimes to read all its scriptures and understand all its varied forms. But, an attempt at learning as much as one can about Hinduism is the first and foremost duty of every Hindu student. It is my contention that the more you learn about Hinduism, the more proud you will be of your heritage.
Keep up with current events – Hindus can be found all around the world, but most of them still live in the birthplace of Hinduism: India. Learn about issues like Kashmir, the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh, so that if such a subject is brought up for debate, you can present the Hindu viewpoint with authority and confidence. (But beware of content on the web, as much of it is not peer-reviewed. Anyone can write articles on the internet, and there’s no way to check the validity or authenticity of such digital literature. Even newspapers are not as reliable today, as the recent New York Times fiasco demonstrates.)
Be original and think critically – Ask questions, tough questions. Don’t be shy about arguing with even people you admire for their wisdom. The profound philosophies of Hinduism were developed through a long process of rational inquiry and civilized debate. In addition to using your cognitive faculties to ask questions, use the same faculties to offer your own interpretations of scriptures, myths, and practices of Hinduism. Have opinions of your own, and be open to those of others.
Learn to lead – There are a few leaders in HSC, but we need many more. The fulfillment of the previous three points is a necessary prerequisite for this duty. Don’t be afraid that you will fail. Nobody is perfect; we all make mistakes and fall short of our expectations every once in a while. Perfection is achieved only when you reach moksha; until then, accept criticism for your failings with courage. Being a leader, however, does not mean undermining the authority of people above you. Leading does not necessarily equal rebelling. Part of being a good leader is knowing when to follow.
Perform seva – be a global citizen. Do social work and perform charity, for Americans, Indians, and people of all other nationalities. Physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being must precede a spiritual lifestyle. As Gandhiji once commented, “even God appears in the form of bread to a hungry beggar”. The Gita also says that a Karma Yogi is one who practices sacrifice, austerity, and charity. But even if you’re unable to help anyone financially at your present state, you can still perform charity in your daily life. Everyday life presents us with innumerable opportunities to help others; you may not feel like opening a door for a stranger is much, but if it puts a smile on that stranger’s face, you’ve accomplished this duty; at least until the next such opportunity arises.
