That takes us to the next reason why Hinduism is source of my pride. Hinduism is all about tolerance. Since each one of us has to individually take up the journey of personal discovery, and each one of us is a different being, Hinduism acknowledges that paths we choose are bound to be different. So far there is no threat or deceit involved, Hinduism encourages to respect diversity of beliefs and ways of living. A so-called non-Hindu is not supposed to live like a second class citizen in a Hindu Rashtra or Hindu nation.
That is why since time immemorial, Hindustan or Bharat or Aryavart or India has been the cradle that nurtured a variety of theologies. There are no separate rules for Hindu, Muslim or Christian in a Hindu code of conduct. This is in stark contrast with many religions that clearly state that only followers of their set of superstitions are the special ones.
It is shamefully surprising to know that even in 21st century there are such fanatic countries that debar people of other faith to build their places of worship, or visit their so-called Holy cities. In such intolerant societies, punishments for crime against women, Jews, Christians, Hindus, Muslims are different. The rights of people to hold positions of responsibility is dependent on their religion. This has been the way of the west for last 1000 years.
India, on contrary, owing to its Hindu foundation, has been an icon of tolerance. We have had several Muslim Presidents despite more than 80% population being Hindu. Current vice-president is a Muslim. Current chief of ruling party in India is Christian. Current Defence Minister of India is a Christian. The captain of Indian Cricket team for a long time has been a Muslim. The Chief of Army has been a Christian. Head of Intelligence Bureau is a Muslim. And these people have been adulated by Hindus irrespective of their religion. The Kumbh Mela 2013 – greatest religious event of Hindu majority of India – was led by a Muslim. The top Bollywood stars are Muslims.
I am not sure how many countries in world can showcase such a level of tolerance and respect for all faiths. The credit goes to the Hindu foundation of the nation. This makes Hindustan the most unique in entire world.