To Love or Just Go Through the Motions: Rethinking Our Relationship with India

A nation, at its root, represents a community of people united through certain values. However, if we want to genuinely love our nation, we need to first understand what those values are and make sure they exist not just on paper but also in practice.

In recent times, a growing concern has been that younger generations seem to be losing their "love for the nation." But is this truly a problem? What can young people lose love for if they don't even know what the Indian nation stands for?

India's values are far more complex than just its geographical boundaries or cultural patterns. The country represents a community of people united by its foundation of ruthless enquiry, rigorous thought, and deep understanding.

To truly love India, one must first understand the underlying essence of the nation - something that goes beyond surface-level patriotism and short-lived national pride. This is where India's rich philosophical heritage, particularly in Vedanta, comes into play.

"The process of India begins with a bold exploration of the self and the world, and culminates into a truth beyond the mind-material duality," says Acharya Prashant, a renowned philosopher and spiritual leader. According to him, true Indiness is about embodying values like enquiry, love, freedom, and truth.

"So, if you ask me, 'What is India?' I will wait to catch you in your deep moment of immersion or love," he adds. It's only when one is deeply immersed and has experienced the country's essence that they can truly claim to be Indian.

This brings us back to our fundamental questions - what connects and unites Indians? Is it just political or geographical convenience? India, for many, is just a piece of land, but land can change hands. To answer these questions honestly requires a deeper understanding of the nation's values and spirit.

Celebrating diversity is essential, but if we only focus on surface-level differences without delving into our common humanity, we will fail to truly represent India's diverse tapestry.

To love or just go through the motions - this is the question that remains unanswered. It's time for us to pause, take a deep breath, and immerse ourselves in India's essence.

Sources:

• The article by Acharya Prashant can be found on his website askap.in