Once while taking classes at an institute, one participant asked an interesting question. She asked, since this course is on Bharatiya ideas, why large part of your discussions are around Hindu ideas only, why not other religions?

I replied that her question was very important.

The reason is – ideas from Hinduism are discussed in various disciplines because of its openness to criticism, testing, research, interpretations, critique, comparisons etc. There is huge tolerance in its system to listen to opposing views, good views, bad views… And when we say Hinduism has this ability, it is ability of people who follow Hindu/Sanatan ideas.

Ofcourse, this does not mean Hindus should surrender to any irrelevant comment/action. It would be responded and should be. It is this large heartedness combined with great valour and strength that we are in position to discuss and deliberate on extremely complex matters.

Are other religions open to this level of critique and questioning? If yes, most welcome to get is discussed in classes. If they are not willing to do so, then maybe this question should be directed to them.