Hindu statesman Rajan Zed has called for Hindus worldwide to wear the “Om” symbol all the time with pride and joy.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, which looks after the social and religious concerns of Hindus worldwide besides undertaking other Hindu issues, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, asked Hinduism devotees to adopt the practice of wearing powerful and auspicious “Om” every day of their lives as a symbol of their belief.

Rajan Zed pointed out that it was important for Hindu identity, deepened the spiritual dimension in daily life and would help in preservation of our culture worldwide. It would exhibit that you were trying to live by your spiritual traditions.

Zed argued that a simple “Om” necklace chain or lapel pin did not cost much and urged all Hindus to give a gift on next Diwali (November 13) of wearable “Om” necklace or lapel pin to friends who did not wear one. Hindu charities worldwide would be able to distribute free “Om” necklaces and lapel pins to individuals who thought they could not afford one.

Many Hindus already sported the “Om” symbol; Rajan Zed said and hoped that the rest of the Hindu devotees would adopt this practice immediately as a reminder and expression of their faith.

Zed expressed concern at marginalization of Hinduism in some parts of the world.

According to Rajan Zed, “Om” (Aum) is the mystical syllable containing the entire universe, which in Hinduism is used to introduce and conclude religious work. It signifies Brahman. Ancient Mandukya Upanishad calls it a symbol for what was, what is and what shall be. According to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, it represents Isvara.

Hinduism, oldest and third largest religion of the world, has about one billion adherents and moksha (liberation) is its ultimate goal.