Dear Readers,
Diwali is over and Vikram Samvat 2076 has set in. I am adamant on beginning the New Year with a whole new zeal and appreciation for life and all those who help make it better. Which is why, this week, my column will simply reflect gratitude to my readers, supporters, sponsors, colleagues, and well wishers. Vikram Samvat 2076 commemorates the rule of King Vikramaditya in Ujjain. It is believed he began the era of Hinduism. What is called Hinduism today, was initially identified as Sanatan Dharma which had no beginning or end.
United India or Akhand Bharat was established over 2500 years ago under the guidance of Sage Chanakya. Emperor Chandragupta Maurya is credited as being the creator of a unified India. The terms Hinduism or Hindustan evolved in the last 1000 years under the rule of Mughal dynasties in present-day Delhi. It doesn't necessarily mean it's a country of only Hindus. Unlike other countries that identify with a particular religion- like the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, India despite an 80 per cent population of Hindus, does not identify as a Hindu state. Just like Britain does not identify as a 'Christian' country. It's a country with a majority of Christians. There's a difference.
This Diwali, hundreds of temples, gurdwaras, and derasars celebrated with a lot of pomp. Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited the temple on New Year's Day when Annakut was offered to the Hindu Gods. London Mayor Sadiq Khan organised a Diwali function at Trafalgar Square.
It was Chanakya who said धर्मस्य मूलं अर्थम् - meaning the foundation of civilisation is wealth creation. Indians, especially Hindus, Jains and Sikhs are renowned for their entrepreneurial skills and being followers of peace and harmonious co-existence.
With the last issues of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar closed, I was fortunate to have several hours to read and relax. What a luxury it was. I had recently received over 30 books of Kavi Nanalal. I also read newspapers, magazines, and books. One of the most interesting book review I read was 'Leadership in War' by Andrew Roberts. What a fascinating book that compares several leaders who led their nations. From Napolean Bonaparte, to Horatio Nelson, Winston Churchill, Adolf Hitler, to Dwight Eisenhower, and Margaret Thatcher- Roberts highlights the characteristics, temperament, talents and tenacity of each leader very carefully.
How do culture and traditions survive?
Last Sunday, I attended the wedding of a daughter from a distinguished family known for its values and particularly, its generous philanthropy. I was very touched watching the ceremony of two hours. In my 53 years in London, I have met many entrepreneurs and businessmen/women. One thing common in all of them is their connection with their roots.
Culture irrespective of religion is something that defines the basic roots of the society. Maybe this is why people who move abroad are more conscious of their traditions than those living in India. It will not surprise you to notice, I have seen atheists visit temples, gurdwaras and churches merely to stay in touch with their societal customs.
Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar has always worked for the betterment of and in the service of the communities and its existence is owed to our readers. We ran two major campaigns recently. One was against the nefarious report launched by the Labour Party, and second was against the divisive anti-Indian demonstration. Our contribution and leadership in these two vital community concerns have been very well-acknowledged. While I appreciate the compliments, we were simply doing our duty. It was our way of ensuring the community knows that whenever there are problems for our community, we will lead from the front and are most grateful for all the support from one and all.
Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar strives to follow the principles of fairness, peace, non-violence, and harmonious relationships, all of which have enabled success to all our campaigns. I wish the new year bestows upon us the greatest of strengths to stand against what is wrong and raise our voices against injustice.
