I write this in context with letters in AV from Baroness Flather, Miss A and Miss B. Since Hinduism is a vast and complex religion for common person to understand, many sects have sprung up from it to lead its followers with clarity and simplicity for their spiritual advancement. In my understanding, Swaminarayan’s doctrine is neither against women’s equality and empowerment nor Swami's avoidance of sight of women is meant to degrade, demean and disrespect them.
In Hinduism, women are considered to be very powerful entity. Hindu Goddesses are held in high reverence and worshipped by all . Hindu scriptures also mention that simple. devotional, virtuous life free from vices and material desires are the attributes of true Swamis, Gurus, Saints and Sages.
Moreover, chastity takes one to a higher dimension of life. Swaminarayan sect has strong conviction of this notion of chastity and therefore avoidance of women is considered must by the saints to focus better on their divine mission. However, these saints alike others respect women and worship Hindu Goddesses with zest.
Niranjan Vasant
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