Last updated on August 10th, 2023 at 02:32 pm
Under the aegis of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed a program celebrating Sri Aurobindo’s 150th birth anniversary via video conferencing in Kamban Kalai Sangam, Puducherry. In honor of Sri Aurobindo, the Prime Minister also released a commemorative coin and postal stamp.
The Prime Minister addressed the gathering and spoke about the importance of Sri Aurobindo’s 150th birth anniversary. A commemorative coin and postal stamp are being released to pay tribute to Sri Aurobindo by the nation, as highlighted by the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister expressed the belief that such efforts by the nation will give new energy and strength to India’s resolve.
“Freedom from the mentality of slavery” is one of the five pledges India possesses, which is embodied in the life of Sri Aurobindo, according to the Prime Minister.
Despite heavy western influence, when Sri Aurobindo returned to India and came in contact with the Gita during his time in prison, he emerged as the loudest voice of Indian culture.
Shri Modi further recalled that he had studied the scriptures and translated texts ranging from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Upanishads to Kalidas, Bhavabhuti, and Bharathi. ”
“Sri Aurobindo’s thoughts about India were witnessed by many people, even though he was kept away from Indianness during his youth.” The Prime Minister remarked that “This is the real strength of India and Indianness.”Pointing out that Sri Aurobindo was such a personality whose life had a modern scientific temper, political rebelliousness, and a sense of the divine as well, the Prime Minister said that Sri Aurobindo’s life was very influential.
Recalling his “no compromise” slogan during the division of Bengal, the Prime Minister said that he would not accept anything less than what he had promised.
He was a role model for the freedom fighters of that time because of his ideological clarity, cultural strength, and patriotism. Shri Modi also talked about the sage-like aspects of Shri Aurobindo who used to hold forth on deep philosophical and spiritual issues. He added social service to the Upanishads.
Without any feeling of inferiority, the Prime Minister pointed out that we are embracing all views in our journey of developing India. Our heritage is important to us and we are proud to share it with the world.
Background
A visionary who made lasting contributions to India’s freedom struggle, Sri Aurobindo was born on 15th August 1872. Sri Aurobindo’s 150th birth anniversary is being commemorated by Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav – an endeavor to celebrate the glorious history of India’s people, culture, and achievements on the occasion of 75 years of independence – by organizing year-long activities and programs across the country.
