The world today faces unprecedented crises. First, climate change, which requires major lifestyle adjustments to correct, even if partially. There are almost entirely pointless wars occurring that are taking a toll on human life with an intensity that reflects the sophistication of the weapons being used. There is the desperate urge in many countries for the kind of freedom some nations take for granted. Tragically, large sections of the world population do not get enough food even to survive. And then there is increasing social turmoil caused by economic and religious reasons, leading to serious political instability. In some countries, the level of organised crime is so high that they cannot even be said to have a government.
Looked at from this perspective, India is a nation that stands apart. Historically, it has faced every one of these problems at some time or other. But there has been a civilisational impulse that has helped take it in the right direction despite brutal invasions and colonisation. It came up with a unique form of resistance based on ‘non-violence’ that today inspires the world. This long struggle forged a class of leadership that not only worked for Independence, but also bequeathed a political system and Constitution based on a unique concept of life. And after gaining formal Independence on 15 August 1947, the ordinary people participated in the democratic process with extraordinary wisdom.
Today, India is sincerely addressing the above-mentioned challenges with positivity and determination. It is almost alone in doing so, as even many so-called developed nations are in denial and unwilling to take responsibility for their past misdeeds or play their part in the required global transformation. This includes unwillingness to surrender inherent trade and commercial advantages obtained from the past so that struggling nations can improve their conditions. The developing global consensus on climate change is most hindered by their hesitation to take responsibility.
In many ways, therefore, there is much that can be learned from India’s experience in dealing with these issues. Unity in diversity, which has become a political cliché for some, has been truly practiced in India. It has certainly not been easy, but the inspiration has come from an inherent and evolved spiritual tradition, revitalised from time to time by thinkers who have transcended the dualities. The process of self-discovery is still ongoing and there is the occasional hiccup, but as India’s inherent nature manifests itself, it has a lot to teach the world, that is beyond just the material.
