धर्म, अध्यात्म और राष्ट्रीय चेतना

Summary

The text discusses the decline of national consciousness in India, attributing it to the dominance of self-serving politicians who prioritize party interests over ethical principles. It argues that the separation of religion and spirituality from public life has led to a rise in opportunism, immoral alliances, and power-driven politics. The author notes that while religion and spirituality are personal matters, their absence from societal discourse has fostered corruption and violence. However, the text also acknowledges that religious institutions themselves have become entangled with political power, creating a mutually reinforcing cycle of exploitation. The article highlights two exemplary religious figures who integrated spirituality with national consciousness. Acharya Jawaharlal Maharaj of the Sthanakvasi Jain tradition promoted khadi, swadeshi, and upliftment of the untouchables while adhering to strict ethical conduct. Acharya Tulsi, the ninth head of the Terapanth tradition, launched the Anuvrat Movement in 1949 to foster moral awareness across all sections of society, including students, teachers, traders, and politicians. This movement, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of moral upliftment, continues under the leadership of Acharya Mahashraman. The text laments that such ethical movements face increasing difficulty in gaining traction today, as narrow-mindedness and the erosion of moral values persist. It calls for courage to address the intertwining of corrupt religion and power politics, emphasizing the need for a renewed focus on ethics, spirituality, and national consciousness, particularly during the month of August, which includes Independence Day and the Paryushan festival.