#HarGharTiranga “…Generations come and go. New combinations arrive and vanish, but that for which the national symbol stands – that ineffable union of jana-desha-dharma – remains forever, simple and steadfast as Eternity, mirrored in the fugitive minds of its myriad worshippers…” (Sister Nivedita, National Flag, Modern Review, 1909)

It is always a happy and energising feeling to meet Shri B.L.Santhosh Ji, National General Secretary (Organisation) BJP & Trustee, Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation. Very interesting always to exchange the latest books & articles with him & to discuss narratives, ideas & intellectual, social and political trends. Refreshing …

At Lumbini, visited the sacred Mayadevi Temple & the iconic Asokan Pillar. Was warmly welcomed by my friend and leading scholar of Buddhism Professor Arvind Kumar Singh, Dr B.R.Ambedkar ICCR, Chair Professor at Lumbini Buddhist University. Was happy to receive his latest book “The Dhammapada: Retelling the Verses & Stories …

Stupa, within the ancient city limits Shravasti. Visited the Angulimala Vihara and the Angulimala Stupa, within the ancient city limits Shravasti. A new decorated pathway is being erected and beautification work is being undertaken. The area is adjacent to the new airport that is coming up on Shravasti. Also visited …

Always an elevating feeling to visit Jetavana at Shravasti, where Lord Buddha spent 25 Varshavas – monsoons. A place which is replete with lore and history. Work on upgrading infrastructure and connectivity in and around Shravasti, in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s “Buddha Circuit” roadmap, is proceeding apace. …

The Piprahwa Stupa, at Kapilavastu, Siddharthnagar, UP, is where a portion of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha, later known as the Piprahwa Gem Relics were excavated. Later a part of it was taken out of India by the Pepe family. Through the timely and decisive intervention of Prime Minister …

Was happy to unveil a statue of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee at Badkulla, Nadia. The initiative to commission and to erect the statue was taken by the Badkulla Boys Club. The statue has been beautifully sculpted by Shri Sanjay Pal son of veteran sculptor from Nadia, late Shri Nemai Pal. …

The idea of India as Viswaguru demands discipline, constitutionalism and national purpose—not rhetoric, disruption or the politics of anarchy A glimpse of what it takes to transform India into Viswaguru was seen during the dark days of the pandemic, when Covid inundated the world and India stood out, radiating hope …

India cannot become a Viswaguru through abuse, threats and constitutional defiance. Its rise must rest on duty, discipline and nation-building Sonam Wangchuk is on his way to Ladakh, and by the time this column appears, he will be back in his familiar surroundings, recuperating and working on his future projects. …

It was a day well spent at Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari. As always a visit to the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial, is reinvigorating and deeply inspiring. Offered homage at the Samadhi of Ma. Eknath Ranade Ji, a spot that radiates energy and dynamic vibration & spent time with the elders of …

At Nagercoil, called on Mananiya Balakrishnan Ji, President, Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari. Wished him a very speedy recovery and good health. In our long association with Balakrishnan Ji, he has always come across as the very embodiment of the mantra of “One Life, One Mission.” He has dedicated a lifetime, from …

“For the next fifty years this alone shall be our keynote – this, our great Mother India…” – Swami Vivekananda (The Future of India, 14 February, 1897)