As we approach the anniversary of the first atomic explosion on July 16th, a momentous event that forever altered the course of human history, we are also greeted with the release of the movie 'Oppenheimer'. This convergence of past and present, of history and culture, provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the profound connections between the scientific and the spiritual, the political and the philosophical.
J. Robert Oppenheimer, the 'father of the atomic bomb', was a man of many facets. A physicist by profession, he was also deeply interested in philosophy and spirituality, particularly the ancient Hindu scripture, the Bhagavad Gita. It was this text that he famously quoted upon witnessing the first successful atomic test, saying, "Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds."
As the chairman of City Hindus and the India League, I find this intersection of science, spirituality, and politics particularly fascinating. The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse text that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, is a conversation between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. It is a profound exploration of duty, righteousness, and the path to spiritual enlightenment.
Oppenheimer found solace and guidance in the Gita during the tumultuous times of the Manhattan Project. He navigated through the dangerous political environment of his time, balancing the immense power of the atomic bomb with the moral and ethical implications of its use. The Gita's teachings on duty, action without attachment to results, and the impermanence of life resonated with him.
As a young man working in the US Congress we lobbied the White House to prevent nuclear proliferation by AQ Khan of Pakistan.
In today's volatile political landscape, there are lessons to be learned from Oppenheimer's journey and his engagement with the Gita. Politicians today are often faced with complex dilemmas that require not only strategic thinking but also ethical discernment. The Bhagavad Gita's teachings can provide valuable insights into how to navigate these challenges.
Firstly, the Gita emphasizes the importance of duty or 'dharma'. In the face of difficult decisions, politicians must remember their fundamental duty to serve the people and uphold justice. This sense of duty can guide them through the most challenging political storms.
Secondly, the Gita teaches 'Nishkama Karma', or action without attachment to results. This does not mean indifference to outcomes but rather focusing on the right action and letting go of the anxiety over results. This can be a powerful antidote to the short-termism that often plagues political decision-making.
Lastly, the Gita's wisdom on the impermanence of life can help politicians maintain perspective in the face of success and failure, praise and criticism. It can foster resilience and a steady mind, qualities that are essential in the turbulent world of politics.
As we commemorate the anniversary of the atomic age and watch Oppenheimer's story unfold on the big screen, let us remember the profound wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita that guided him. In the face of today's political challenges, may we too find guidance and inspiration in its timeless teachings.
