Protest against TV program (in support of rebirth) Raaz Pichhle Janam ka on NDTV Imagine

In the award winning film Nayak by the renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray, the protagonist asks his friend do you think there is an afterlife? Do you believe in re-birth? the friend laughs and says even if I am born again, I wont be the same Jyoti living in the same era! So how would I know and how does it matter? Do what you wish to do in this life itself. The hero, played by the legendary Uttam Kumar brushes of his inhibitions and goes ahead with his dream of becoming a film star.

With wonderful touch of humor and common sense Ray lays bare the basic reason for not believing in re-birth and for not dwelling on such imaginary and wasteful exercise.

We find in this 21st century, a national TV channel tagging the suffix imagine frequently presenting utter non-science in the name of imaginationghost stories and made up stories of miracles. But the current one about previous life and its revelation through hypnotism takes the cake.

Let us come to the social point of view. To make people believe in previous life and re-incarnation is not only nonsensical, it is damaging. The idea was made up by rulers and priests to control the less fortunate. To make people feel guilty for the possible sins committed in their previous life is the dirtiest of tricks played by our ancient forefathers. The poorest of the poor born in so called low caste had no other option but to remain low caste. They could only dream of a better future in their next life by being timid, docile and utterly un-ambitious in this life. So, two-thirds of the poverty stricken masses of India never revolted.

Our memory, our dreams and aspirations dwell in our brain cells. With death our brains too are destroyed burnt or decomposed in the grave. So scientifically, no memories or thoughts can survive after death, except through our writings, work etc.

Life is beautiful, precious and full of possibilities. Modern man with global exposure has learnt it now. So any attempt towards regression even in the name of entertainment is criminal.

We strongly condemn the TV show Raaz pichley janam ka (A program in support of rebirth) as unscientific and damaging for the viewers. We call on all the viewers who think like us, to protest by signing this appeal.


The Science and Rationalists Association of India

& Humanists Association