Mysuru (Karnataka), Nov 24 (NationPress) Former Karnataka Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai remarked on Monday that saints such as Swami Vivekananda played a crucial role in safeguarding this nation.

Addressing the closing ceremony of the centenary festivities of Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama in Mysuru, Bommai emphasized, “Hindu dharma and the essence of being Indian are indistinguishable. The invasions of our land were not solely about acquiring territory or riches; they were assaults on our cultural heritage. Nevertheless, numerous saints, including Swami Vivekananda, have defended this nation.”

The former Chief Minister noted the prevailing chaos, stating, “The human psyche worldwide has become obscured and tainted. People struggle to coexist. While dharma should unify humanity, it seems to be causing divisions today. Vivekananda eloquently articulated the principles of dharma. In Hindu dharma, there exists a profound love for one’s homeland. This connection forms the basis of the relationship between dharma and national identity.”

“Hindu dharma and the Indian identity are intertwined. Observing the current landscape of our nation, individuals display intelligence, yet history is rife with conflict. Unlike other nations where major wars did not alter religious or cultural identities, India faced invasions aimed at obliterating our culture, deeply rooted in our dharma,” he asserted.

“Yet, figures like Swami Vivekananda have preserved our identity. They have provided guidance to countless learners who have absorbed knowledge and values from this Ashrama, nurturing them into well-rounded individuals,” he said.

“I extend countless salutations for illustrating what it means to construct a nation. Let this serve as a robust foundation. Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions a developed India by 2047. This Ashrama acts as a vital institution in realizing that ambition. PM Modi shares the name Narendra, and his visionary outlook is influenced by Swami Vivekananda and Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Some question whether Modi will be around in 2047. Whether he is or not, this nation will endure, and we must strive to build it,” he added.

Bommai remarked that one can study Swami Vivekananda's character once in a lifetime. He possessed answers to every question. Even at a young age, he conveyed profound wisdom. It is noteworthy that this Ashrama, motivated by his philosophy, has continued its service to the people of Mysuru for a century. “I first pay homage to those who envisioned the establishment of this Ashrama. The moment that thought emerged deserves reverence, as it energized the entire world,” he stated.

The former Chief Minister stressed the importance of discovering life's purpose in the journey between birth and death. “People often believe that life's goal is to attain happiness, but lasting happiness is unattainable. Instead, one should conquer life. By dedicating themselves to the pursuit of knowledge, true happiness can be achieved, as Vivekananda taught.”

Bommai mentioned that God has endowed them with a unique identity for a reason. They should not aspire to be someone else, as that is not God’s intention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is Modi; no one else can replicate his identity. Attempting to imitate him would be the pinnacle of folly.

On the occasion, Mukhtinanda Swamiji of the Ramakrishna Ashrama, Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji of Suttur Mutt, Sri Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mutt, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with several dignitaries graced the event.