Media Release
Dharwad, Apr 16: A remarkable Agnihotra ceremony, organized by the Gram Vikas Society along with the Universal Knowledge Trust, set a new world record. Held on the Indigo campus at Mansoor, Dharwad, the Karnataka Agnihotra Spectacular attracted families from 11,111 households, who participated during sunset, establishing a significant milestone. The record was officially announced by a four-member team from the Noble World Record panel. The event was conducted under the leadership of Jagadish Shekhar Naik, president of the Gram Vikas Society.
At the event, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, U T Khader, addressed the Agnihotris: “These kinds of events actually bring people from all religions together in harmony, creating and spreading positivity in the minds of people." He also said, “Helping each other has been preached in every religion. They also teach that we should forgive each other and move forward. Only by doing this on a larger scale in society can India truly become a world leader and show the world how to live in harmony.”
Speaking to the media after the event, union minister Prahlad Joshi highlighted the essence of Agnihotra as a tradition that transcends religious boundaries. He stated, “Agnihotra is not just part of Hindu culture; people from Muslim and Christian communities also took part in it. The essence of India lies in creating energy—found in water, in the sun, and in the Earth. Creating a positive atmosphere is a scientifically proven truth.”
He underscored that Agnihotra is a traditional practice from ancient times that needs further study and appreciation across all faiths.
Joshi voiced concern about the diminishing narrative of Indian identity, emphasizing unity among all religions. He proclaimed that the Hindu way of life does not discriminate based on caste, religion, or sect, and believes that worshiping God is acceptable regardless of personal practices. “Agnihotra is a Vedic ritual that has traditionally included yagas, homas, and havans. However, these practices have been neglected due to the lack of time to perform them. The Agnihotra ritual can be conducted simply and inexpensively at home without any expert’s assistance, making it accessible to many. This simple ritual can be performed at sunrise and sunset, taking only 10 minutes. Believers assert that it brings tranquillity and alleviates stress. Participating in this homa imbues the atmosphere with new energy, rejuvenating both body and mind. It is also said to reduce environmental pollution and has various healing properties through its ash, while enhancing the body’s immune system. The Agnihotra event has not only highlighted the cultural significance of this ancient practice but also fostered unity among various communities, reinforcing the essence of Indian heritage, and bringing positive energies to the practitioners, their families, and society at large,” he said.