CPWR withdraws support to Vivekanand birth anniversary event

The Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions has disassociated itself from an event being held here next week to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, saying it was co-sponsored by groups "promoting controversial political positions".
"We honour Swami Vivekananda and that legacy he left creating interfaith cooperation to build a just, peaceful, and sustainable world. Our organisation was not informed that an event we were asked to co-sponsor was also co-sponsored by organisations promoting controversial political positions," CPWR said in a statement.
The Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions (CPWR) is the host and organiser of the Parliament of the World's Religions since 1893. Among its honorary international advisors include Mata Amritanandamayi Devi and the Dalai Lama.

"While we do honour and promote the ideals of Swami Vivekananda, we respectfully withdraw our name from any co-hosting or co-sponsorship of the 'World Without Borders' event and any connection to this event or its other co-sponsors," CPWR said in its statement that did not mention any particular organisation or individual. The statement was signed by Mary Nelson, its executive director and A Malik Mujahid, chair of the board.
According to the event flier and its website, 'World Without Borders' to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda being organised by the Chicago-chapter of Vishwa Hindu Parishad-America. Baba Ramdev is listed as its chief guest for the two day event on September 27 and 28.