EMERGENCE OF A NEW INDIA — Peace and Spirituality

EMERGENCE OF A NEW INDIA Peace and Spirituality T HE second half of the twentieth century witnessed the emergence of a new India. Some historical factors initiated a new process in India. Now, in the twenty-first century this process has reached its near culmination. In a single word it can be called ‘democratization of India’. Democracy results in de-monopolization of opportunities. This fact is evident in modern India. It is a positive sign for Indian society. Every section of society benefits from this revolution. This situation gives our country a unique position on the world map. There are different factors that led to the initiation of this process. Some of these factors are political freedom, secular movements, modern education, industrialization of the economy and multinational culture. Also, several global factors are responsible for the shaping of this new India. Freedom with discipline is the greatest good while freedom without discipline leads to anarchy. The film industry has also played a positive role in this regard. Bollywood provides a new place and subject of interaction for people from different communities and religious backgrounds who work together in harmony. This is a new form of socialization. In this way, the industry has also contributed to communal harmony and brotherhood. Now we need an ideology that is based on peace, spirituality, positive thinking and value-based culture. All these developments in democratic India have provided a favourable base for this initiative. It is high time for thinking people to awaken and play their role in this regard. This kind of society can be built through peaceful methods like the media, informal education as well as seminars and conferences. Before August 15, 1947 India’s struggle was directed towards political freedom. Now the most important question is how to use freedom in a healthy manner. It is a fact that freedom is the summum bonum. But, at the same time, it is also true that freedom requires discipline. Freedom with discipline is the greatest good while freedom without discipline leads to anarchy; and anarchy may nullify every good thing.