Dimapur, May 1 (EMN): Eulogising the hospitality of the people of Nagaland, which is predominately a Christian state, the advisor of Power department, H Tovihoto Ayemi, stated that the peaceful co-existence of people from other religions and cultures living in the state particularly in Dimapur is a shining example of religious tolerance practiced by the Christians and the people of Nagaland.
Tovihoto was addressing the gathering of Hindu devotees during the inauguration of a newly renovated temple of Shree Shree Santoshi Mata Mandir near Dimapur Railway Station on Sunday morning.
“For years, people practicing different religions have lived together in Dimapur and there has never been a single recorded report of religion related incident and Shree Shree Santoshi Mata Mandir, which was established in the year 1952 in the heart of Dimapur city, is one of many worship places of other religion that bear witness of religious tranquility that prevails in Nagaland,” Tovihoto said.
Stating that every religion teaches about love, peace and harmony and that each religion must have tolerance towards all religious beliefs, Tovihoto pointed out that peaceful coexistence has been the idea advocated by people of different religions. He added that societies with the most diverse people living together in harmony are the most prosperous around the world.
Dwelling on the significance of 'Santoshi', Tovihoto, who was the special guest of the inaugural function, called upon the devotees of 'Santoshi Mata' to be harbingers of religious tolerance and bear witness of the peaceful co-existence of different faiths in Nagaland. He further encouraged the people to preach tolerance, mutual love and friendship among diverse sects, which is essential for peaceful co-existence and prosperity of a society.