Religion plays a pivotal role in each individual's life. Religion is a two sided coin. It has its own boons and banes. At times it is the cause of harmony and peace but on the other side of the coin, It also becomes a reason for desolation. There is absolutely no harm in following a religion. In fact, it provides one with a unique identity. Every religion- Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or Christian is a double edged sword. It has both positive and negative effects. Its positive outcomes are solidarity; it provides us with social control, provides us with ethical values and helps in maintaining law. But on the other hand it leads to frequent conflicts, dogmatism and blocks social change. People take religion to such an extent that it turns them fanatic and crazy. The worst thing is when religion dominates our political agenda. The consequences are corruption and evils in the society.
Solutions to these problems lie in our hands. We must inculcate tolerance and acceptance in our mind set. If we can't respect others' identity, we will lose respect for ourselves. The basic principles of every religion are identical and positive in spirit. So we should not confront each other on the basis of the apparent differences between them. We should remember that the essence of religion is the welfare of mankind not its destruction. The need of the hour is to follow and practice true religion for the grater cause of humanity.
