Stressing on the importance of religious tolerance and universal acceptance, Chief Justice of India N V Ramana on Sunday said there is a greater need today in contemporary India to pay heed to the words spoken in this regard by Swami Vivekananda who was a greater preacher and propagator of such virtues.
“His teachings have great relevance for all times to come. Swami Vivekananda, in his address, propagated the idea of tolerance and universal acceptance. He analyzed the dangers posed by the meaningless and sectarian conflicts in society to the nations and civilizations. There is a greater need today, in contemporary India, to pay heed to the words spoken by Swami Vivekananda as early as in 1893. He was prophetic. Long before the painful churning that took place in the subcontinent during the freedom struggle resulting in the framing of an egalitarian Constitution of India, he advocated Secularism as if he foresaw the events to unfold”, said the Chief Justice.
CJI was addressing a virtual event to mark the 22nd Foundation Day of Vivekananda Institute of Human Excellence, Hyderabad, and the 128th anniversary of the historic Chicago address of Swami Vivekananda.
”He (Swami Vivekananda) firmly believed that the true essence of religion was the common good, and tolerance. Religion should be above superstitions and rigidities. To fulfill the dream of making resurgent India through the principles of common good and tolerance, we should instill the ideals of Swami Ji in today’s youth.”
ADVICE TO YOUTH
“As a part of my job, I interact with young advocates and lawyers. One thing I have observed is that the youth have a lot of energy and passion to be unique. The world may try to throw various challenges at you, but I say that you must fight the good fight. I know it is not easy, but I want all of you to remember that perseverance and persistence are the two mantras for success”, said the Chief Justice.
“Education and awareness constitute key components of empowerment. I come from a rural background. We struggled to educate ourselves. Today resources are available at your fingertips. There is unlimited access to a world of information”, he said.
These advantages come with a heavy burden. The hyper-awareness that modern society allows, with the ease of flow of information mandates that students are more socially and politically aware, CJI added.
“You must know the social ills and contemporary issues facing the society and the polity. Read books to expand your vision and diversify your opinion. Although these days we have multiple tools to keep ourselves engaged within the four walls of our house, yet we should take time to step outside. Focus on your health and engage in physical activities and sports. Visit the slums to be conscious about the divides”, he said.
