No Indian who aspires to follow the way of true religion can afford to remain aloof from politics.
This quote suggests that for anyone who is truly committed to a path of righteousness or spiritual growth, it’s not possible to remain disconnected from political matters. The underlying idea is that politics isn’t just about power or governance, but it’s fundamentally about the organization of society, about the distribution of resources, about justice, equality, and the protection of rights. Therefore, being engaged in politics, in this broader sense, is a form of service, a way of ensuring the welfare of all, which is a key aspect of most religious or spiritual paths.
In the context of India, where the quote originates, it’s particularly significant because the country has a long history of intertwining religion and politics. The quote emphasizes that one cannot simply focus on personal spiritual growth while ignoring the larger societal issues, because these things are interconnected.
Applying this idea to today’s world, it means that anyone who is truly committed to their values or principles can’t just focus on their personal growth or success. They also need to be aware of and involved in larger societal issues, whether it’s through voting, activism, volunteering, or other forms of civic engagement. This is because societal issues often reflect deeper moral and ethical issues, and addressing these issues is a key part of personal growth and development.
In terms of personal development, the quote suggests that growth isn’t just about personal achievements or self-improvement. It’s also about how we contribute to the world around us, how we help to improve the lives of others, how we stand up for justice and equality. So, part of personal development is about becoming more aware of the world around us, understanding the issues that affect our society, and finding ways to make a positive impact. This is a more holistic approach to personal development, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of serving others.
