"We need to understand what is at the core of our religious traditions. Satya (truth) and shuchita (piousness) are at its core and both are not possible without compassion. Hence, we will have to begin with compassion," Bhagwat said.
"The imbalance, extremism after the destruction of religion, competition with each other, the rampant rise in self-centredness...All these we can fight by practicing compassion and truth...To be able to do that, we should practise compassion," he said during launch of a book titled "Compassion in 4 Dharmic Traditions".
Bhagwat said, "Whatever is happening" in the world at present is due to absence of compassion, without which, "religion cannot exist".
"There are many people...Who worship in different ways, are believers of different faiths, follow different eating habits, speak different languages, and we should ensure that all are happy.
"What develops all, produces happiness, peace all the time, does not go against welfare is dharma (religion). The existence of religion is impossible without compassion," he said.
Advani, who called Bhagwat a 'mahapurush', suggested that no religion permits criticism of the other and stressed that "one who does not perceive as wrong religion-based ideologies is the one who accepts other religions too".
You’ve reached your limit of 10 free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app