On July 28, 2024, Samvit Kendra organized an interaction event at G. Narayanamma Institute of Technology and Science in Bhagyangar, Telangana, focusing on the book “We and the World Around” authored by senior Sangh Pracharak Dr. Manmohan Ji Vaidya.
The event was marked by the presence of notable figures, including Dr. Amba Kulkarni, the founder-head of the department of Sanskrit Studies at the University of Hyderabad and a distinguished computational linguist, and Shailaja Ji, vice president of Samvit Kendra.
Dr. Amba Kulkarni, who graced the occasion as the chief guest, commended the work of the RSS and underscored the importance of both internal and external perspectives to attain a comprehensive understanding of the world. She highlighted the need to interpret Sanskrit phrases in their original contexts rather than relying on vernacular translations, which can lead to distortions.
Dr. Kulkarni also drew attention to the phrase “simhAvalOkanam” in connection with the RSS’ centennial, illustrating how it represents a profound and visionary perspective essential for celebrating this milestone.
In his address, Dr. Manmohan Ji Vaidya provided a reflective analysis of global and national development trajectories. He compared the post-World War II recovery and growth of countries such as Germany, the UK, France, and Japan with India’s slower development, despite its rich civilization and minimal infrastructure damage. Dr. Vaidya attributed this disparity to India’s ongoing identity crisis and lack of a unified vision, which he believes has impeded progress in education, economics, defense, and foreign policy.
Dr. Vaidya also critiqued the perception of Bharat’s history by contemporary leaders, citing the controversy surrounding the restoration of the Somnath Temple. He reflected on the economic prominence of India between 1500 and 1800 AD, emphasizing the critical role of women in the economy and challenging the narrative that traditional Indian society oppressed women.
He contrasted Bharat’s inclusive approach to global trade with the exclusivity often seen in Western practices, drawing attention to the absence of a word for ‘exclusivity’ in Sanskrit. He also highlighted traditional Indian values such as “Ekam Sat Viprah Bahudavadanti,” promoting respect for diverse viewpoints, and “Unity in Diversity,” celebrating cultural differences.
Dr. Vaidya discussed the divergence between Western and Indian models of state and society. He noted that while Europe developed a welfare state model, Bharat’s traditional system allowed for greater public participation in economic and health matters, contributing to stability and resilience, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Concluding his speech, Dr. Vaidya urged the audience to pursue a “Sarthak” life, emphasizing the importance of meaningful contributions over mere material success.
The event, attended by nearly 120 people, ended with a stimulating exchange of ideas, leaving participants with a profound understanding of India’s historical and cultural significance and its relevance to contemporary society.