VATICAN CITY, Oct 28: The Vatican on Tuesday urged Hindus to follow Mahatma Gandhi’s example and unite in support of non-violence, following a wave of violence against Christians in eastern countries.

In a statement marking Diwali, the Vatican’s pontifical council for inter-religious dialogue expressed the need for followers of all faiths to live side-by-side.

“In the Hindu tradition, non-violence is one of the more important teachings. Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Indian nation, is respected and held in high regard by people of different generations around the world for his complete dedication to the service of humanity,” said the message.

“During the course of his struggle for freedom, he realised that ‘an eye for an eye’, and soon the whole world is blind.”

The Diwali message comes two days after Pope Benedict XVI launched an appeal “for the defence of the legitimate rights... of Christian or other religious minorities” who were victims of a “tragedy” in some eastern countries, among them India. Indian bishops say that some 60 Christians have been killed in violence in Orissa.

In the written message, French cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, president of the council, proposed “considering together how we can live harmoniously in today’s society, witnessing the truth, light and hope that Diwali celebrates.

“Non-violence is not merely a tactical manoeuvre but is the attitude of one who, as the Pope affirmed, ‘is so convinced of God’s love and power’ that he is not afraid to tackle evil with the weapons of love and truth alone.

“Love of one’s enemy is the revolution of love, a love that does not rely ultimately on human resources but is a gift of God.”—AFP