Kolkata, Feb 28: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted India's deep-rooted spirituality and rich civilizational heritage, asserting that the country's foundation rests on Sanatan Dharma. Speaking at an event commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Srila Prabhupada, the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), Dhankhar expressed confidence that India would emerge as a Vishwa Guru (world leader).
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President emphasized the unifying essence of Sanatan Dharma, stating, "Sanatan stands for inclusivity, universal values, patriotism, and rising above caste, creed, and economic divisions." He underlined India's role as a guiding force for the world through its teachings of non-violence, peace, and brotherhood.
Reflecting on India’s cultural legacy, Dhankhar remarked, "No other country in the world possesses a 5,000-year-old sanskriti (culture). India has always been the spiritual hub of the world, and we must continue to uphold this legacy."
However, he also lamented the historical challenges that India faced over the last millennium, particularly the destruction of renowned ancient universities such as Nalanda and Takshashila, which once attracted scholars from across the globe. "We have witnessed barbarity and unimaginable extremities, yet we have endured and risen once again. India's resurgence today is not just about economic progress but also spiritual rejuvenation," he asserted.
Dhankhar further noted that the world acknowledges India's spiritual and philosophical influence due to the contributions of great figures such as Sri Ramakrishna, Swami Vivekananda, Sri Chaitanya, and Srila Prabhupada.
Paying tribute to Bengal’s pivotal role in shaping India's spiritual, cultural, and political history, he stated, "Bengal has always been at the forefront of every significant movement—be it spiritual, cultural, or the freedom struggle." He also honored the legacies of revolutionaries like Khudiram Bose and Chittaranjan Das, as well as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, whose guidance played a crucial role in India's progress.
Dhankhar’s address reinforced India’s commitment to its civilizational values, positioning spirituality as a cornerstone of the nation’s continued growth and leadership on the global stage.
