What explains the Gita's resurgence in political sphere? Concerted attempt to push it for political mobilisation, or is it organic? A look at its political career in modern Indian history.
In 'Kesari' by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Nadeem Khan and Yashodhan Parande offer English translations of the nationalist leader's articles in his Marathi newspaper.
Bal Gangadhar Tilak commanded the respect of his peers despite their political differences. Gandhi called him 'The maker of modern India' while Nehru described him as 'the father of the Indian revolution.
On bilateral ties, Admiral Paparo said India-US ties have an exponential effect on deterrence, because it demonstrates a unity of purpose among us to maintain the peace.
This is the game every nation is now learning to play. Some are finding new allies or seeing value among nations where they’d seen marginal interest. The starkest example is India & Europe.
Ambedkar , founder of Constitution says” Gita is not a book of religion, nor a treatise on philosophy. what it does is to defend certain dogmas of religion on philosophical ground.” The dogma was that of chaturvarna ( caste system). Ambedkar asks a pertinent question : why does Krisna make performance of varna duty-though void of merit-a necessary condition for salvation? why isnt loving devotion to Krishna enough?
There is no conflict here: All that Gita says is the steadfast adherence to duty (dharma) with dedication and surrender of its fruits to the almighty is one’s responsibility.
What one’s duty, who is the authority to prescribe one’s duty, as per the situation, social context and organization of society is debatable. Whether its shastras & vedas, parents, gurus, leaders or government is the question.
However once duty and the authority is clear, for an ordinary person, at a personal level, the message of Gita gives energy to execute it, solace & comfort if it is not fruitful and confers grace & humility if successful.
Ambedkar , founder of Constitution says” Gita is not a book of religion, nor a treatise on philosophy. what it does is to defend certain dogmas of religion on philosophical ground.” The dogma was that of chaturvarna ( caste system). Ambedkar asks a pertinent question : why does Krisna make performance of varna duty-though void of merit-a necessary condition for salvation? why isnt loving devotion to Krishna enough?
There is no conflict here: All that Gita says is the steadfast adherence to duty (dharma) with dedication and surrender of its fruits to the almighty is one’s responsibility.
What one’s duty, who is the authority to prescribe one’s duty, as per the situation, social context and organization of society is debatable. Whether its shastras & vedas, parents, gurus, leaders or government is the question.
However once duty and the authority is clear, for an ordinary person, at a personal level, the message of Gita gives energy to execute it, solace & comfort if it is not fruitful and confers grace & humility if successful.
So its essentially free therapy.