Interview with Pujya Narayan Sai  

"Western World is turning to Yoga leaving sensual pleasures"

India, the center of spiritual excellence is progressing on the righteous path following the guidance of saints. The fact that Yogic scriptures are chanted in American Senate is testimony to the fact that the western world is also progressing on Yogic path leaving the materialistic world. One of the richest men in the world, Bill Gates is singing praises about the technical capabilities of India. We also should be confident about our capabilities. Many such remarks were made by Pujya Narayan Sai during a special meet with "Chetna". Here are the excerpts from the discussion:

Question: Religious bigotry is on the increase in today's world. What do you think does the future auger for the human race?
Answer: Anger cannot be tackled by anger. So to stop violence you have to take refuge in non-violence. Dogmatism is tackled by sagacity, narrow mindedness by magnanimity and avarice by charity. It is important that men continue to have a heart to heart talk. If we do not understand and take care of the delicate condition of our country, we might face a major catastrophe. It is the duty of all men to love the country which has given them birth irrespective of their caste, creed and religion. One has to have feelings of love and affection for the society which is nourishing him and one has to work for each other's prosperity and well being. It is the vision of Bapuji and his innumerable devotees that this country should once again scale the peaks of philosophical excellence. It is as a result of this, that Vedic hymns were sung to welcome the Indian Prime Minister in the US Senate. The western materialistic world is gradually shifting towards the Eastern philosophy, the harbinger of which is the chanting of Vedic hymns in America.

Question: Why is our youth turning its back towards religion?
Answer: All Indians are deeply rooted in religion. We carry out religious practices from birth until death. We celebrate all religious occasions with gaiety which covers the whole calendar year. Foreigners tried to destroy our religion but have never been successful. Indian society is governed by religion. The greatness that has been thrust on us on account of religion is extraordinary. This is the reason why Bill Gates praises Indian intellect and is impressed by the sharp and enthusiastic work culture.

Question: Which is greater Country or Religion?
Answer: A nation following religious doctrines is great. One who follows religion is great. One who sustains and protects religion fighting against odds is also great. The Western world wants India to establish spiritual dominance. There is absence of tranquility in the western world due to lack of religion. India can bridge the technological gap, cultural and philosophical gap taking the help of religion. Gradually, the right educational system is also coming to the fore. History sings our praises and the world should take heed of it. Today, diligence in discharge of duty is on the wane and addiction is on the increase. Society is degenerating under the guise of entertainment. If we can restrict the propagation of violence and sex across the country, the youth will become a much more powerful and energetic force.

Question: How far is it good to mix politics and religion?
Answer: Religion is an integral part of human life. Politics rules the country and has to abide by religion. That which is good for society is religion. Extortion of the population in the name of religion is a heinous act. Our religion rests on forbearance and magnanimity and not on narrow mindedness. Violence is erupting not on the basis of religion but only for personal selfish gains.

Question: What role can the media play under these circumstances?
Answer: Media has to change its ways. If the media recognizes justice, religion, simplicity and works for high morality it can achieve great success. It should concentrate on helping the populace and not be swayed by western opulence. Worry about what is good for the people and what is liked by the people.

Question: Inspite of our religious strength why are we lagging behind the world?
Answer: Reason is crystal clear. American currency proclaims ' We trust in God' There is no such thing on Indian monetary currency. We should state ' We believe in God' on our monetary notes. This move is appropriate and essential for us.

Undoubtedly, some countries are ahead of India in terms of materialistic achievements but in the field of spiritual attainments there is no doubting the fact that India is unparalleled anywhere else on the globe, not only as of today but even in the past and in the foreseeable future.

Even today, India has such treasures which can make even the most prosperous nations in the world appears paupers by comparison. The key is to have the necessary insight to understand and appreciate this horde of treasure and an intellect which can fathom it.

The external environment undergoes subtle changes as per our thought process. It is now high time that the Indians forget their self-centredness and join hands together to proclaim and proliferate the mainstream eternal culture and pristine glory of Indian ethos.