Bharat, the land of divinity and vigour

Bharat, a great nation with more than 10,000 years of written history, is a land of Vedas, Upanishads. Many great Rishis have spent their psychical life on this sacred land. The land on which Shri Krishna recited “Shrimad Bhagavad Gita” to prince Arjuna. The same land on which Gautama Buddha advocated “Pancha Sheela” the code of conduct to the world. The holy battle of Kurukshetra was fought on the same land to preserve Dharma. This is the land chosen by the gods as their abode during their stay on earth.

Bharat also referred to as India, is the primary source of, spirituality, ethics, and worldly wisdom. It is Annapoorna. The cradle of human civilization that has nurtured thousands of languages, protected cultural diversities, gifted to the world two great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The Vedas are mother of all the Sastras emanated from God himself and are storehouse of infinite knowledge. The word “Veda” itself means knowledge. They were revealed by God to the Rishis who were ascetic practitioners. The Rishis received worldly and spiritual knowledge of Vedas as a series of sounds and taught their disciples who in turn taught them to their disciples. Thus, through an unbroken chain of succession of Gurus and disciples, this treasure of knowledge is available to mankind today in the very same form that it was received ages ago. It was God himself who recited Vedas and hence Vedas do not have any human author. 

Bharat has produced many great Rishis and saints who with their intense meditation have realized the supreme truth and eternal knowledge. They have interpretated the knowledge in the form of Shlokas and have taught us the profound truth. Even our rituals, the culture, our festivals are equally ancient. Our traditions are rational, rich, and scientifically based. 

Bharat is a transformational leader in various arts, sciences, in music and literature. It is the only nation to have universities in ancient times. It is most unfortunate that many born in this sacred land are unaware of its unique greatness. The western world likes to take credit for many technological inventions, but we fail to mention that often many of these “discoveries” are nothing, but re-inventions based on knowledge our ancestors possessed long ago. In ancient times, Bharat was one of the most advanced nations in the world. It has made many invaluable contributions to the world. Centuries ago, our Rishis had the kind of knowledge which many modern scientists lack. Many discoveries made by our Rishis are unparalleled even in today’s times. 

A Hindu Panchanga (calendar) developed thousands of years ago, and NASA satellite built using millions of dollars tell exactly same time and day of eclipse. Until 5^th century, westerns believed that earth was flat, but here our ancient text refer earth as “Bho-gol” meaning earth is round. Yet few ignorant fools make fun of own heritage and prostrate before the west.

The scientific contribution by our Rishis is seldom discussed. They were pioneers in astronomy, cosmology, medicine, physics, metallurgy etc. Our ancestors were brilliant mathematicians and have contributed “zero”, value of Pi, or “infinity” to the world. Our Rishis are the original masters in trigonometry, caliculus, algebra, many discoveries by them are used by modern scientist to claim credit. Few such examples are listed below:

Aryabhatta was brilliant mathematician and a first astronomer to proclaim that the earth is round, it rotates on its axis, orbits the Sun, and is suspended in space – 1000 years before Copernicus published his heliocentric theory.

Acharya Kanada was first to talk of atoms and molecules. He piloted atomic theory nearly 2500 years before John Dalton. According to ancient Santana principles, the entire universe is created out of the conglomeration of the sub-atomic particles which influence the five gross elements of nature called Pancha Bhutas. Today’s modern scientific explanation are not different from what our Rishis stated millions of years back.

Acharya Charaka unarguably is the Father of Medicine. His renowned work, the “Charak Samhita,” is considered as an encyclopaedia of Ayurveda. He has described the medicinal qualities and functions of 100,000 herbal plants. He has emphasized the influence of diet and physical activity on mind and body.

Acharya Sushruta details the first ever surgery procedures in “Sushruta Samhita,” a unique encyclopaedia of surgery. He is acclaimed as the father of plastic surgery and for the science of anaesthesia. When surgery was in its infancy in Europe, Sushruta was performing Rhinoplasty (restoration of a damaged nose) and other challenging operations. In the “Sushruta Samhita,” he prescribes treatment for twelve types of fractures and six types of dislocations. The ancient Indians were the pioneers in amputation, caesarean, and cranial surgeries. Acharya Sushruta was a giant in the arena of medical science.

The Science of Yoga is one of several unique contributions of India to the world. It seeks to discover and realize the ultimate reality through yogic practices. Acharya Patanjali, the founder, prescribed the control of prana (life breath) as the means to control the body, mind, and soul. This subsequently rewards one with good health and inner happiness. Acharya Patanjali ‘s 84 yogic postures effectively enhance the efficiency of the respiratory, circulatory, nervous, digestive and endocrine systems and many other organs of the body.

Celebrated as the founder of Sankhya philosophy, Acharya Kapila he is recognized and saluted as the Father of Cosmology. His concept of transformation of energy and profound commentaries on atma, non-atma and the subtle elements of the cosmos places him in an elite class of master achievers

Further, our divine land is guided by Sapta Rishis, the seven greatest sages of the Vedic realm. They have attained a semi-immortal status, that of an exceedingly long lifespan due to power of penance. The seven holy sages, present through the four great ages, have guided humans. These Sapta Rishis work to maintain the balance on Earth.

Women are revered in Hinduism, and they form epitomes of intellectual and spiritual attainments. One of the most profound attributes of Sanatana Dharma, also known as Hinduism, is the recognition and worship of God in feminine form. In fact, Hinduism is the only religion that has always worshipped God in female form. Many Hindus revere God’s energy, or Shakti, through its personification in a Goddess. Many festivals, such as Dussehra, Navaratri etc., are wholly dedicated to Goddess.  

From Vedic times women actively participated in religious and cultural rituals. They perform Yagnas and have attained immortal status through their spiritual actions. Notable Rishikas (Female Rishis)  of Vedic era include Gargi, Maitrey and Rishikas like Ahilya, the wife of the sage Gautama Maharishi and Arundhati the wife of the sage Vashistha are well known to every Hindu. Women are employed as priests in temples, the practice that continues till date.   

In Sanatana philosophy protecting environment is an essence of Vedic culture. Our ancient texts teach us that it is the Dharma of every individual in society to protect nature. Therefore, we the people have always worshipped the objects of nature, like trees, water, land, fire, animals etc. Many of our ancient texts like Chanakya’s Arthashastra and Manusmriti have emphasized the importance of environment protection. Clear procedures are laid out for optimum use of the natural resources and appropriate punishments are prescribed for violation. Our practices are universally applicable, inter-dependent, inclusive meant for wellbeing of society. Today’s Kyoto protocol or Paris agreement are knee-jerk reaction from the western world attempting to protect the environment, but for Bharat environmental protection is integral part of our life.  

It is a common practice in Indian villages to perform marriage between a neem and peepal tree. Some see this practice as silly and foolish, but our ancestors were wise to encourage this practice, because the peepal tree is a big oxygen factory and neem tree has medicinal value. When villages come together and perform a ritual like this, they are bound to protect the same trees. In turn, trees keep the villagers healthy. Like this, many Sanatana practises are based on science and have definite purpose.

This is a land of heroes who fought for protecting our Dharma. The ancient greats like the legendary emperor Vikramaditya from Ujjain, who ruled most parts of present day Indian sub-continent, extending beyond Tibet into parts of present-day China in the north, entire present day far eastern countries and encompassing middle east and many countries that are part of present-day Europe.  Powerful ruler from Kashmir, Lalitaditya and Chandragupta Maurya the founder of the Maurya Empire, also ruled large parts of present-day’s Asian geography. 

Sri Krishnadevaraya the emperor of the Vijayanagara, was not only a Dharmic warrior, but also established one of the richest empires of his times in the world. He was known for encouraging art and culture and poet himself. The Kings of Ahom dynasty who ruled the present-day Assam, for nearly 598 years were powerful rulers and they defeated the Mughals 17 times in a span of 60 years.

Maharana Pratap the king of Mewar known for his military resistance against the expansionism of the Mughal Empire, is considered as one among five lions of modern India. The great Maratha, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, arguably the greatest emperor of modern times, is known for establishing the Maratha empire, which lasted for close to two centuries. At its peak, the empire extended from Attock, which today lies in Pakistan, to Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. He was a ferocious warrior, a dharmic ruler and a man of virtues. Rajaraja Chola, the emperor who expanded his kingdom to Fareast (Today’s Asian countries) has contributed many architectural marvels to our nation. This divine land has seen many exemplary rulers who have left striking mark on our society. The sad part is that our present-day historians have failed to recognise their valour and exclude them from modern day history texts.  

Our civilization is the oldest in the world and the only one that has lasted and still thriving. The core values that are entrenched in our society are based on Sanatana philosophy. Art and culture are near and dear to us, and means to express our thoughts, feelings, traditions, and beliefs. Art and artist are rooted in our history and act as catalyst for change. Many famous works of art are deeply rooted and helps to tell the story of the religion. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are the two pillars of Indic civilisation and are the testimony to the fact that they are an integral part of every Indian's psyche. Many great poets like Maha Kavi Kalidasa, Jayadeva, Bammera Pothana, Nannaya, Kumara Vyasa, Kamba, Allasani Peddana, Tulasidas are inspired by these great epics and each of them have produced many superb literacies till date. 

The left historian’s credit Maha Kavi (Great poet) Kalidasa as Shakespeare of East. I am sure they have not read the great works of Kalidasa. To demonstrate the greatness of poet, I have attached small audio of a sloka written by Kalidasa,

Maha Kavi Kalidasa was an ordinary shepherd. It is believed that Sharadha Matha appears before him and blessed him with knowledge. At that instant, Kalidasa with all the excitement and devotion praises the goddess and resits a sloka which is presented here in audio link. Ghantasala, legendary Telugu playback singer, renowned for his divine voice has rendered this sloka in a mesmerising manner. Sanskrit may not be understood by everyone but close your eyes and listen to extraordinary lyrics and memorising presentation.

Lord Rama and Krishna are incarnations of God, and their ways of life was for a purpose and quest for truth. Their life is depicted in the form of art and culture by Rishis/poets, have profoundly influenced the social behaviour and human interactions. Art and culture in Sanatana system promotes discourse, strengths rationality, builds new relationships and ideas.

Sanatana values are tolerant and inclusive that believe in concept of “Atithi Devo Bahva” meaning “Guest is God” and hence people from different religious faiths from various parts of the world are welcomed with open arms. They are allowed practice their faiths without any fear or discrimination. The fact that these faiths have flourished and expand their population to a level that, today they are in position to influence the society, signifies well on large heartedness of Hindus or the inclusiveness of Sanatana Dharma. Today, majority of people in India live in harmony with one identity as Indians, but also exists a minuscule population that continues with their bigotry of religious fanaticism that use personal faiths to sway others. This fanaticism is also a business for few to expand their personal wealth. Unfortunately, these fanatics are supported and funded by external powers. 

In the past we were invaded by Turks, Arabs from middle east or central Asia. They indulged in brutal means to spread their faith and gain control over the locals. These barbaric clan have destroyed many scared Hindus shines and built mosques over the ruins. After nearly 800 years of Islamic rule, Marathas ended Mughal rule over most parts of Indian subcontinent. At the same time Europeans started establishing their colonies across India. The British the prominent among Europeans ended Maratha rule in the year 1818 by defeating BajiRao Peshwa II.

The British were cunning and used divisive methods to gain foothold in India. Started as traders, they slowly and steadily expanded their influence across princely Kingdoms. Men like Robert Clive was ruthless in using military powers to gain control. In the due processes. India witnessed transformation of trade contracts into colonial relations.

Max Mueller, the propagator of the Aryan invasion theory, was highly impressed with India and wrote 

“If I were to look over the whole world to find out the country most richly endowed with all the wealth, power, and beauty that nature can bestow—in some parts a very paradise on earth—I should point to India. If I were asked under what sky the human mind has most fully developed some of its choicest gifts, has most deeply pondered on the greatest problems of life, and has found solutions of some of them which well deserve the attention even of those who have studied Plato and Kant—I should point to India.” 

This appreciation of his was a manifestation of his jealousy towards this nation. 

Mueller was a Sanskrit scholar and had read our scriptures. As intelligent man he knew that demolishing Gurukul based education system is must to conquer India. He said, I quote “India has been conquered once, but India must be conquered again, and that second conquest should be a conquest by education.” He advocated reforms in Hinduism only for the purpose of superimposing views of Christianity on Indians. He supported Brahmo Samja because he believed it as Indian form of Christianity. With such divisive mindset, Max Muller was a prefect bait for the British for assigning the task of distorting our civilisational values. They funded huge sums of money to restructure education system in India.

So, Max Muller, with his sinister design went on to create an illusion of many deceitful theories that were all manufactured on concocted premises, which are carried forward by present day left historians. Muller’s idea was to create a rift in society, cement the divisions of caste creed and nurture a low self-esteemed, self-hating Hindu society. Regrettably, these sins are accepted as gospel truths by Indian left thinkers and liberals to continue their hatred towards Hindus. The purpose of British entering this nation was to plunder our wealth. For this they had to win few locals in their support. Hence hatched a plan to destroy our civilisational values and divide the society on caste lines.  Lord Macaulay's Speech on Indian Education to British parliament is self-explanatory on their ulterior motives:

"I have travelled across the length and breadth of India, and I have not seen one person who is a beggar, who is a thief. Such wealth I have seen in this country, such high moral values, people of such calibre, that I do not think we would ever conquer this country, unless we break the very backbone of this nation, which is her spiritual and cultural heritage, and, therefore, I propose that we replace her old and ancient education system, her culture, for if the Indians think that all that is foreign and English is good and greater than their own, they will lose their self-esteem, their native self-culture and they will become what we want them, a truly dominated nation." 

While Islamic rulers simply destroyed our temples, burnt our manuscripts, converted the poor by sword, the British, in their three hundred years of rule, have harmed our nation by wrongly interpreting Vedas, manufacturing history to suit their agenda, destroying our moralities and nurturing caste divides. For a period, they succeeded in convincing that we are inferior and laid foundation to a mediocre leadership. It is estimated that British looted $45 trillions from India. (India’s Year - 2021 union budget was $500 million) Further their so-called great scientist, Isaac Newton stole concept on gravity from Hindu Gurukul. Newton copied Rishi Kanad’s Vaisheshika Sutra as it is. Newton was businessman and a partner in East India Company. 

Finally, when British left India 1947, India was one of the poorest countries in the world. Today, in less than 75 years, India has bounced back to become 5^th largest economy in the world. We have overtaken England and thriving to become second largest in near future. We have regained our leadership position in space technology, we have attained food security and have become the net exporter of agro produce. We are world’s largest producers of milk etc. Many Indian executives are heading global brands. This is commendable achievement, considering that Bharat was under the foreign rule for nearly 1200 years. Today, the resilient Indians are ready to rule the world again.

Yes, we have withstood the onslaught of invasions, and have preserved our core philosophy, Dharmic values. While we might not have reclaimed our spiritual knowledge totally, we have economically prospered, increased our military might, and today we are recognised as world power, but sadly some in India continue to live in colonial mindset and miss no opportunity to defame India. Which I condemn. 

Invaders to present-day religious fanatics or the Lutyens lobbies have not succeeded to erase the spirt of Sanatana Dharma. The inclusive approach inherited from our ancestors will ensure harmony and peace in the society. We believe in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakum” i.e. entire Universe Is One Clan. It is an idea which is easily understandable, that spreads the message of togetherness with affirmation. We have a glorious past, hence be proud of our legacy and let us fill our hearts with this heritage.

Bharat is Karma Bhoomi, Punya Bhoomi, Veera Boomi, Pavithra Boomi. We are blessed to be born on this land. At the same time, each one has duty to perform by being loyal to the nation, abiding the Laws of the land, respecting traditions, and culture, maintaining peace and harmony and to protect our environment. Nation’s progress is in our hands, we together can make it prosperous. Let us give our best… Rest would be taken care by the almighty, as Sri Krishna himself says in the Bhagavad Gita that, He appears on earth whenever and wherever there's a decline in religious principles and a rise of irreligiousness. 

I end with the following Shlokas from Bhagavad Gita. Sanskrit is Deva Bhasha (GOD’s language) and it is a delight to listen, Sanskrit slokas. Listen to Sri Ghantasala’s devotional voice with precise articulation. 

Yad Yad Acharati Shreṣhṭhas Tat Tad Evetaro Janaḥ

Sa Yat Pramāṇaṁ Kurute Lokas Tad Anuvartate 

Whatever way of life a high placed man adopts,

Other men copy; the standard he sets up is followed by the people.

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Yada Yada Hi dharmasya Glanirbhavati Bharata

Abhythanam Adharmasya Tadatmanam Srijamyaham

Whenever there is downfall of Dharma and Adharma prevails, 

I reincarnate myself on this abode earth to restore Dharma.

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Paritranaya Sadhunang Vinashay Cha Dushkritam 

Dharma Sangsthapanarthay Sambhabami Yuge Yuge 

For the protection of the good, for the destruction of evildoers,

For the sake of firmly establishing righteousness, I am born from age to age.

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Vande Matram