Nashik: Kanya Pujan, Havan Programme For Schoolgirls Cancelled After ANiS Objection

Nashik officials recently cancelled a planned Kanya Pujan and Havan ceremony for schoolgirls after objections from the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti (ANiS). The Art of Living, Vedic Dharma Sansthan Maharashtra and the Nashik Municipal Corporation had collaborated on the event, which was originally scheduled for October 17.

The letter inviting school teachers and headmasters to bring girls aged 6 to 14 to a central location for the rituals was met with concerns from ANiS member Krishna Chandgude. Dr TR Gorane, state secretary of ANiS, then contacted NMC officials to raise objections, stating that such religious practices for children contradict the secular principles of the Indian Constitution.

Following Dr Gorane's advice, Meeta Chaudhary, the Education Administration Officer, promptly canceled the event. Chaudhary emphasized the importance of protecting and respecting girls, as well as the need to maintain scientific reasoning among students. ANiS defended its position, asserting that it does not oppose religion or spirituality, but strongly objects to using these concepts to promote unscientific rituals, especially when students are compelled to participate.