Pothencode: Interfaith dialogue plays a crucial role in fostering unity, love, and oneness among people, said Swami Navananma Jnana Thapaswi, Joint Secretary of Santhigiri Ashram, while delivering the keynote address at a conference held at the Santhigiri Ashram Sahakarana Mandiram on Monday as part of World Interfaith Harmony Week. Swami emphasized the need for a culture that transcends divisions based on education, wealth, health, beauty, caste, and creed. He highlighted that such a way of life was deeply rooted in early Indian civilization, where people lived in harmony with their surroundings. Historically, worship systems evolved based on occupation, leading to different spiritual practices for clans (kula), tribes (gotra), and villages. Speaking on the significance of India’s spiritual heritage, Swami stressed its relevance in today’s world. He explained that when worship deviates from its pure essence, it leads to a loss of inner virtue (sukrutha). To regain it, one must focus on the Ultimate Truth (Arupa-Swarupi)—the manifest formless Truth, which is the pure source of Jnana (wisdom). He further explained that an individual attains the status of a Rishi when all karma is exhausted through the perfection of jnana (knowledge), karma (action), and dharma (righteousness). Swami also shared insights on the true meaning of Tyaga (sacrifice), clarifying that it is not about renouncing the world but about embracing life with a prayerful attitude, accepting one’s destined experiences with equanimity. He described the ashram as a place where this spiritual effort is actualized through consistent practice. The event was graced by Swami Jnanaduthan, Head of the Ashram President’s Office. Assistant Professor Sindhu B.P. from Santhigiri Siddha Medical College welcomed the gathering, while Bijesh Kumar V, Senior Manager of the Ashram Finance Cash & Banking Division, delivered the vote of thanks.