The reduction to ashes of the 97-year-old Sanatan Dharam Shiv Temple in Nadi on Thursday shows lack of multiracialism in our society, says a retired teacher.
Changaiya Naidu, a retired head teacher of Bainivalu Primary School said sacrilege could be stopped if healthy minded people encouraged religious tolerance.
"Sacrilege paints a poor picture of the society we live in and people should take responsibility to prevent these criminal activities by promoting multiculturalism," he said.
Mr Naidu urged parents, friends and religious leaders to assume responsibility to protect lives and properties where they lived.
"Children in schools are taught multiracialism and multiculturalism but I think there is a need for greater emphasis on racial and religious tolerance," he said.
"We all must learn the values of diverse religions in the world."
Mr Naidu said during religious and social gatherings leaders should talk about racial harmony and peaceful coexistence.
"I don't think trouble-makers are too many to control as good people in our society outnumber them," he said.
"The key is love for mankind."
Police have not arrested anyone over the temple fire.
