\Samvad

Bhadrapad Krishna 5 Vik. Samvat 2079, Yugabda 5124 : 16 August, 2022:SM 4010 (For Private Circulation only)


1. FESTIVALS: GANESH CHATURTHI 2. RASHTRAPATI DROUPADI MURMU GREETED THE NATION ON THE EVE OF INDEPEDNECE DAY
3. PRADHAN MANTRI NARENDRA MODI : AUGUST 15 SPEECH 4. VISHWA SANGH SHIKSHA VARG CONCLUDED IN BHOPAL
5. REFRAIN FROM POLITICS OVER ‘AZADI KA AMRIT MAHOTSAV’ : SUNIL AMBEKAR 6. LOK IS ETERNAL, REFLECTS BHARATIYA VALUES: J NANDAKUMAR
7. SHRI DHANKHAR SWORN IN AS UPARASHTAPATI OF BHARAT 8. HSS UK –SANGH SAHIKSHA VARG 2022
9. THERESA PRAISES HSS (UK) AT LARGEST YOUTH EVENT OF NEXT GENERATION LEADERS 10. HSS USA HOUSTON VIBHAG
11. HSS RAKSHA BANDHAN UTSAVS 12. BHARAT MATA POOJAN BY HSS JAPAN
13. FIRST EVER DHARMAFEST RECEIVES COMMUNITY SUPPORT 14. GRADUATION CEREMONY OF COUNSELOR OF HINDU TRADITIONS
15. OVER 28 LAKH BHARATIYAS WENT ABROAD FOR WORK IN PAST 2.5 YEARS: GOVERNMENT DATA 16. UK ROYAL MINT LAUNCHES NEW GOLD BAR FOR GANESH CHATURTHI
17. "INDIA PROVIDED LANKA 'A BREATH OF LIFE' DURING CRISIS", SAYS PRESIDENT WICKREMESINGHE 18. ROOPALI DESAI BECOMES FIRST SOUTH ASIAN JUDGE TO SERVE ON US COURT OF APPEALS
19. IN A FIRST, US WARSHIP ARRIVES IN BHARAT FOR REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE 20. CSIR GETS FIRST WOMAN DIRECTOR GENERAL
21. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Article: AZADI KA AMRIT MAHOTSAV

1. FESTIVALS: GANESH CHATURTHI: Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as 'Vinayak Chaturthi' is observed on the Shukla Chaturthi of Bhadrapada month (August 31 this year).

It is celebrated with great devotion all over Bharat for 1.5 to 11 days depending on the family tradition and commitment of each individual. On the day of the festival, Ganesh murtis are placed in homes or outdoor in decorated tents for people to worship and pay their homage. On the last day of worship, the idol is taken out in a colourful and musical procession to be immersed traditionally at rivers, ponds, or beaches.
In 1893, when the British banned political assemblies, the festival was revived by the Bharatiya nationalist leader Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Hindus across the world enthusiastically celebrate the festival with pujas in temples, Ganesh murti making workshops for children and other community events.
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2. RASHTRAPATI DROUPADI MURMU GREETED THE NATION ON THE EVE OF INDEPENDENCE DAY: Extending her greetings to all Bharatiyas on the eve of Independence Day, Rashtrapati Droupadi Murmu said that Bharat is completing 75 years as an independent nation. She also said that August 14 is observed as ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ to promote social harmony, unity, and empowerment of people.
Rashtrapati Murmu said that lessons learned during the period of  75 years of Independence will prove useful as we move towards the next milestone in the journey of our nation - Amrit Kaal; 25 years to the celebration of the centenary of our country’s Independence. She was optimistic that by 2047, Bharat will have fully realised the dreams of our freedom fighters and said that the citizens should take a pledge to give everything they can, for the sake of safety, security, progress and prosperity of the country. She added that when work is done with the spirit of ‘Nation First’, it is bound to reflect in every decision and every sector.
She stated that conserving water, soil and biodiversity is our duty towards our children and noted that with a traditional lifestyle, Bharatiyas can show the way to the rest of the world. She also said that Yoga and Ayurveda are Bharat's invaluable gifts to the world and their popularity is on the rise all over the globe.
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3. PRADHAN MANTRI NARENDRA MODI : AUGUST 15 SPEECH: In his address for the 76th Independence Day at the Red Fort, Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi said that the world today looks at Bharat with pride, hope, as a problem solver and as a destination where aspirations are met.
He encouraged everyone to work with the vision of accomplishing the dreams of our nation's freedom fighters by 100 years of independence. He said that pride of Nari Shakti will play a vital role in fulfilling the dreams of Bharat. Aatmanirbhar Bharat is a public movement that should be taken forward and he urged people to follow Sri Aurobindo's mantra of 'Swadeshi se Swaraj, Swaraj se Suraaj'. He also said that the nation should come together to defeat the evils of corruption and nepotism. Shri Modi said that talent would be the basis of a New Bharat and opportunities should be given to those who are talented and will work towards the progress of the nation. He also mentioned the contribution of citizens to realise ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ as a mass movement throughout the country.
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4. VISHWA SANGH SHIKSHA VARG CONCLUDED IN BHOPAL: The dwiteeya varsh Vishwa Sangh Shiksha Varg in Bhopal concluded on August 7. The varg for swayamsevaks was held from July 17 to August 7, while the varg for sevikas was from July 21 to August 7 at separate locations in Bhopal. 51 swayamsevaks from 13 countries and 30 sevikas from 8 countries participated in it. A combined public function of both vargs together was held at People’s Mall in Bhopal on August 6.
Speaking on the occasion, RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat said that in times when the world is facing social evils, wars, bigotry and environmental crises, Dharma can help overcome these problems. He added that the prime objective of Bharat’s existence was to teach Dharma to the world and its the duty of Bharatiyas living abroad to render in those countries, the goodness of Hindu culture He observed that Bharatiyas have been assets in whichever country they’ve gone to and that they have never proved to be a blot for any nation.
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5. REFRAIN FROM POLITICS OVER ‘AZADI KA AMRIT MAHOTSAV’ : SUNIL AMBEKAR: In an appeal to participate in celebrations of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, the 75 years of Independence, RSS Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar urged the countrymen to refrain from indulging in petty politics over the celebrations.
Shri Ambekar told News Bharati on August 3 that RSS has already announced its support for the “Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav” and asked all the swayamsevaks to participate in it. Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is an initiative of the Government of Bharat to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its’ people, culture and achievements.
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6. LOK IS ETERNAL, REFLECTS BHARATIYA VALUES: J NANDAKUMAR: On July 25, a discussion on the book ‘Lok, Beyond Folk’ was organised by HOPE (House of Political Empowerment: Research and Innovation Foundation) at Delhi University. ‘Lok, Beyond Folk’ is an attempt to understand the culture of the nation beyond the established notions. On the occasion, editor of the book and chief guest of the programme, the National Convenor of Prajna Pravah Shri Nandakumar said, “Lok is Eternal, reflects Bharatiya Values. Now is the time to regain our cultural values again. The buildings built by foreign invaders are part of the history curriculum but the art and culture of ancient palaces, constructed by Bharatiya rulers, not included in history textbooks. We have to work to make India as Bharat.”
Dr Satya Pal Singh - former Union Minister, Vice Chancellor of Delhi University Professor Yogesh Singh and HOPE Director Digvijay Singh also shared their views on Bharatiya values. A large number of teachers and about 1,000 students were present during this book discussion.
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7. SHRI DHANKHAR SWORN IN AS UPARASHTAPATI OF BHARAT: Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar took oath as the 14th Uprashtrapati of Bharat on August 11. He was administered the oath of office by Rashtrapati Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Shri Dhankhar succeeds M. Venkaiah Naidu, whose term ended on August 10.
Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi, outgoing Uparashtrapati M. Venkaiah Naidu, former Rashtrapati Ram Nath Kovind, former Uparashtrapati Hamid Ansari, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. Shri Dhankhar was elected Uprashtrapati on August 6, after defeating the opposition candidate Margaret Alva. He secured 528 votes against Alva's 182.
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8. HSS UK –SANGH SAHIKSHA VARG 2022: After a gap of 3 years, in-person Sangh Shiksha Varg was conducted by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS UK from July 23 - 31. More than 400 people attended the Ganesh Puja that heralded an auspicious beginning of the varg.
182 swayamsevaks and 135 sevikas participated in the prathamik, pravesh and praveen vargs. Along with shikshaks and prabandhaks, around 400 karyakartas from 60 towns ranging from 5 years to 70 years of age were present full time in the varg. This was the highest ever attendance. The activities of the varg included intense bauddhiks, challenging shaririks, lots of fun and working together from 5am to 10.30pm. Though physically tiring, it connected people with the mission of ‘Vishwa Dharma Prakashena, Vishwa Shanti Pravartake’. Many guests including MPs, Lords, leaders from community, religious & spiritual organisations visited the varg. MP Theresa Villiers was the chief guest at the concluding session.
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9. THERESA PRAISES HSS (UK) AT LARGEST YOUTH EVENT OF NEXT GENERATION LEADERS: At the concluding ceremony of a 10-day intensive leadership training course known as Sangh Shiksha Varg (SSV) - conducted by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS UK - chief guest Rt Hon. Theresa Villiers MP congratulated HSS (UK) for the work done during Covid and the continued contribution Hindus make as integral members of UK society. Around 800 people attended the event.
Along with various councillors, Barry Gardiner MP, an ardent supporter of the Hindu community visited and chatted with HSS (UK) members and was asked to send the message that there remains in the Labour party an anti-Hindu element that the Labour party has to tackle. Baroness Sandy Verma also recognised that much more needed to be done by the Conservatives too for the Hindu community.
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10. HSS USA HOUSTON VIBHAG: On August 6, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS USA, Houston vibhag volunteered at Books Between Kids warehouse.
Books Between Kids is a non-profit organization, serving Houston's at-risk kids by donating gently used books for their home libraries. 7 sevikas, 2 yuvas, 4 kishors and 5 balas from 4 shakhas participated in sorting, organising and packing the books. HSS volunteers also donated over 400 gently used books.
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11. HSS RAKSHABANDHAN UTSAVS: Balagokulam Naperville Aurora: On August 12 HSS families appreciated Aurora’s Fire Fighters and Aurora’s Diversity & Equity officials by celebrating Rakshabandhan - Universal Oneness Day - and tying Rakhi to them. HSS volunteers also presented ‘Hindu Exhibition-Darshana coffee Table book’ to the City officials.
HSS Dallas-Fortworth: Shaurya and Prerana Shakhas celebrated Raksha Bandhan on August 8 with the Mayor of Plano, John Muns. They also presented him with a copy of the coffee table book on ‘Darshana’.
Rakshabandhan to elected officials in Wisconsin: On August 5, karyakartas of Sanskriti shakha met with Wisconsin Senator Lena Taylor and celebrated Rakshabandhan. The senator was given an overview of HSS and seva activities done nationally and locally in last 12 months. Rakshabandhan Utsav was also celebrated as ’Universal Oneness Day’ in New Jersey and Illinois.
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12. BHARAT MATA POOJAN BY HSS JAPAN: August 11 – Mountain Day - was a national holiday in Japan and also the day of Rakshabandhan. On this day, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh HSS Japan conducted Bharat Mata Poojan in Tokyo during which rakhi was tied to Tiranga and Bhagwa Dhwaj. 75 swayamsevaks participated in it. To commemorate the 75th independence anniversary of Bharat, Tiranga run covering 75 kms was undertaken to ten historic and prominent places around Tokyo. It included Tokyo’s most revered Asakusa Temple whose rich history and architecture indicates the cultural coherence between Bharat and Japan.
Tiranga run was also undertaken to Tokyo Sky Tree - world’s tallest tower, Meiji Shrine and Tokyo tower. Imperial House where Netaji addressed the crowd participating in Greater East Asia Conference in 1943, Renkoji Temple where Netaji’s statue has been serving as an inspiration for multiple generations and the memorial of freedom fighter and founder of INA Shri Rash Behari Bose in Tama cemetery were also covered during the Tiranga run.
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13. FIRST EVER DHARMAFEST RECEIVES COMMUNITY SUPPORT: New Zealand’s first ever DharmaFest, with the theme 'Vibhinnatāyām Ekatvam' - Unity in Diversity, was launched at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland by Hindu Youth New Zealand (HYNZ) on August 7. Representatives from Hindu, Jain, Buddhist and Sikh communities recited their traditional prayers and blessed the proceedings.
DharmaFest provided an opportunity for Dharmic communities to come together, engage with each other and showcase their unique contributions to Aotearoa (Maori language name for New Zealand).
Murali Krishna Magesan, Coordinator of DharmaFest said, “It paves a road for real positive engagement and opportunity to improve social cohesion within Aotearoa”
All community leaders appreciated the youth-led DharmaFest initiative for making it as a family-friendly event. This free public event gave everyone an opportunity to explore and experience some of the most ancient diverse cultures, arts, crafts, yoga, meditation and ayurveda. Around 1,000 people attended the event.
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14. GRADUATION CEREMONY OF COUNSELOR OF HINDU TRADITIONS: Hindu Council of Australia (HCA) in collaboration and partnership with Hindu Community Institute (HCI) has commenced a unique spiritual care program called Counsellor of Hindu Traditions (CHT). Graduation ceremony of the first batch of CHT will be held on August 20 in Strathfield, near Sydney.
This program trains volunteer for community service and facilitates pursuit for Hindu Chaplaincy credentials. This course gives graduates a chance to become Hindu Chaplains. People need advice on last rites, mental & spiritual support for the young carers of elderly parents, spiritual care for people in prisons and hospitals, marriage counselling for young couples etc. Currently, since these are addressed by Christian Chaplains not trained in Hindu Chaplaincy, Hindus are not getting the spiritual support they need. The CHT graduate course aspires to increase the quality of life of Hindu population and give them the needed spiritual and mental support. More details are available at the website www.hinduci.org.
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15. OVER 28 LAKH BHARATIYAS WENT ABROAD FOR WORK IN PAST 2.5 YEARS: GOVERNMENT DATA: Government data shows that more than 28 lakh Bharatiyas went abroad for employment between January 2020 and July 2022. The data also reveals that at least 4.16 lakh Bharatiyas have left Bharat for private jobs in the Emigration Check Required (ECR) countries during the said period. The ministry of external affairs mentioned this in a written statement in the Lok Sabha. The numbers suggest that there has been a consistent increase in the tally. In 2020, around 7.15 lakh Bharatiyas went abroad for work, while in 2021, this increased to 8.33 lakh. This year, up to the end of July, 13.02 lakh Bharatiyas had gone abroad for work.
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16. UK ROYAL MINT LAUNCHES NEW GOLD BAR FOR GANESH CHATURTHI: The UK’s Royal Mint has issued a new 24-carat gold bar engraved with an image of Bhagwan Ganesh for sale in the lead up to Ganesh Chaturthi on August 31, marking an expansion of its Bharatiya-inspired gold minted bullion bar range.
The 20-gram "999.9 fine gold" Ganesh bullion bar is on sale online and is priced at GBP 1,110.80. The bar designed by Emma Noble depicts Bhagwan Ganesh in his quintessential pose with a tray of laddoos at his feet. “Referred to as ‘The Lord of Beginnings’, Ganesh is one of the best-known gods of the Hindu faith,” the Royal Mint said.
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17. "INDIA PROVIDED LANKA 'A BREATH OF LIFE' DURING CRISIS", SAYS PRESIDENT WICKREMESINGHE: On August 3, newly elected President of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked Bharat for its support. He said that under the leadership of Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi, Bharat has provided the crisis-hit island nation "a breath of life" in tough times. 
President Wickremesinghe made the remarks while presenting the government's policy statement during the third session of Parliament during which he invited political parties to form an all-party government.
According to External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar's statement in Bharatiya Parliament, Government of Bharat has extended 8 Lines of Credit (LOCs) to Sri Lanka amounting to USD 1,850.64 million in sectors including railways, infrastructure, defence, renewable energy, petroleum, and fertilizers in the past 10 years.
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18. ROOPALI DESAI BECOMES FIRST SOUTH ASIAN JUDGE TO SERVE ON US COURT OF APPEALS: The US Senate has confirmed Bharatiya American litigator Roopali H Desai to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, making her the first South Asian judge to serve on this court.
Desai was confirmed by the Senate by a bipartisan vote of 67-29 on August 4.
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, the Ninth Circuit is by far the largest of the thirteen courts of appeals, covering a total of nine states and two territories and with 29 active judgeships.
Desai is a partner at Coppersmith Brockelman where she has practiced since 2007. From 2006 to 2007, Desai was an associate at Lewis & Roca. Desai received her Juris Doctor degree in 2005 from the University of Arizona.
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19. IN A FIRST, US WARSHIP ARRIVES IN BHARAT FOR REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE: The Bharatiya shipbuilding industry achieved a major milestone when a US warship arrived Bharat for the first time for repairs and maintenance on August 7. It also marked the growing Defence and strategic ties between the two countries. Providing a huge boost to “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbharta in Defence” and adding a new dimension to the burgeoning Bharat-US strategic partnership, US Navy Ship Charles Drew arrived at Larsen and Toubro’s (L&T) shipyard at Kattupalli, Chennai for undertaking repairs and allied services. The ship will be at the Kattupalli shipyard for a period of 11 days and undergo repairs in various areas.
The US Navy had awarded a contract to L&T’s Shipyard at Kattupalli for maintenance of the ship. The event signifies the capabilities of Bharatiya shipyards in global ship repairing market.
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20. CSIR GETS FIRST WOMAN DIRECTOR GENERAL: Senior electrochemical scientist Nallathamby Kalaiselvi has become the first woman director general of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, a consortium of 38 state-run research institutes across the country. An order of the personnel ministry on August 6 said that her appointment is for a period of two years. Kalaiselvi succeeds Shekhar Mande, who superannuated in April.
Known for her work in the field of lithium ion batteries, Kalaiselvi is at present director of the CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute at Karaikudi in Tamil Nadu. She is currently involved in the development of practically viable Sodium-ion/Lithium-sulfur batteries and super capacitors. Kalaiselvi also made key contributions to the National Mission for Electric Mobility. She has more than 125 research papers and six patents to her credit.
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21. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: Pravas: Saumitra Gokhale - Vishwa vibhag samyojak will travel to Singapore and USA.
Visitors: Hemant Panchpor - Canada, Dinesh Mani Dubey - Thailand, Hridayanshu - USA.
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Thoughts come and go. Feelings come and go. Find out what it is that remains. ― Sri Ramana Maharishi
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JAI SHRI RAM
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AZADI KA AMRIT MAHOTSAV
RSS SARSANGHCHALAK DR MOHAN BHAGWAT

On 15th August’22, Bharat will complete 75 years of Independence. To celebrate this Amrit Mahotsav of Freedom, various programs and events have already begun and will continue throughout the year.
We are in a festive mood, but that does not mean that we don’t have any challenges or issues in front of us. Though some issues were resolved , some new issues have also emerged. Despite all obstacles, the happiness and joy of this Amrit Mahotsava is obvious and natural.
On 15th August 1947, after many centuries, we were able to establish self-governance and organize an arrangement of self-rule as per our wishes; under our system, under our flag, over a large area of the Bharat.
This independence also reminds us of the elongated period of slavery, hardships, and constant battles that Bharatiya fought without deviating from the sole goal of complete Independence. From a geographical view, this struggle of the Bharatiya people against foreign powers was broad-based, widespread, and all-encompassing. All sections of society contributed to the freedom movement as per their ability, power, and strength. Society slowly grew aware of those components that were posing obstacles in the way of our freedom.
While the various armed and unarmed struggles for freedom kept strengthening, efforts were also undertaken to cleanse the society of social evils and to awaken the society to get organized to work with collective interest.
Thanks to these relentless efforts, on 15th August 1947, we arrived at a position to self-govern our land as per our will, as per our wish, as per our choice, by our very own people. From here on, we bid adieu to the British rulers and took control of running, operating, and administering our nation.
So, it is only appropriate and obvious, we relish this festive mood with enthusiasm and an atmosphere of celebrations as our motherland completes 75 years of independence.
During this extended & protracted freedom battle, a significant number of people, who are real heroes, sacrificed everything including their lives. Their stories should be brought out and spread across society for the society to imbibe, adopt and be inspired by their character, sense of patriotism and their devotion towards motherland. (There were many small and big incidents, small and big events, small and big acts that left an everlasting impact on our vast nation)
The purpose, resolutions and the duties they worked for should be remembered and such focus rejuvenation ought to be dedicated to them.
Why does the country need Swarajya?
Why can’t a county be controlled by an alien nation that does good for the citizens of the country and for the well-being of the nation?
Self-rule and natural expression are fundamental for any society. Thus, the need for freedom provides instinctive inspiration. A country can be governed well only when it’s free and can decide for itself.
Swami Vivekananda once said, “Every nation takes birth and then it rises to contribute something meaningful to the life of the world.” To contribute to anything, the nation must be both free and capable at the same time. These are basic and thus essential.

Like Swami Vivekananda, several great people, who worked for the awakening the people of India and inspired the armed and unarmed revolution for the freedom movement, have described in their own ways why it is not only essential to achieve freedom but also how to handle and preserve it.
The revered RabindraNath Tagore, through his famous poem
चित्तजेथाभयशून्य, उन्नतजतोशिर

and Mahatma Gandhi, through his ‘Hind-Swaraj’ quotes elaborated on concepts about free Bharat . Freedom fighter Veer Savarkar in his famous Swatantra Devi Aarti spoke about collective well-being and sublime excellence. We also can’t miss out on the contribution and two famous speeches of Dr. B. R Ambedkar, where he spoke of the meaning, purpose, and reasoning of freedom and the duties every bharatiya should follow and pursue to build a great nation.
In line with the celebrations of Amrit Mahotsava, we should also introspect that if the very purpose of freedom was to achieve self–reliance, then, in 75 years, is Bharat completely self-reliant as yet?
If Bharat has to contribute meaningfully to the world, does it first need to stand on its own feet wholesomely, and has Bharat attained self-dependence across all spheres?
In 1947, we took an oath of making Bharat the greatest and bringing an era where Bharat will show the light, the path, and lead the rest of the world. But, for that, we need clarity, specificity, and a sense of direction in both our thoughts and actions.
The greatest characteristic of Bharat’s eternal vision, its thoughts, and its culture is oneness, wholesomeness, sampoorna. This is the message it sends to the world by its conduct. Oneness is natural, free of conflict, all-inclusive, based on experienced,logical and scientific truth and harmony that can sustain forever.
Diversity is a mere expression of unity and not an expression of differences. For being one, one need not be the same. If one forces it, then it leads to discord and disharmony. We need to understand and respect each other’s differences and take them all along to build a unified society.
We are all dedicated sons of MaaBharati. It is what connects us. Our eternal culture of being kind, friendly, loving with affinity gives rise to knowledge in our hearts.
From the holiness of one’s heart to the cleanliness of nature, this purity gives rise to knowledge and wisdom. From ancient and historic times, our forefathers have been guiding us to progress, proceed and move ahead on this path of knowledge.Understanding our commonality of being sons of the same soil, respecting the differences, leaving selfish attitudes behind, avoiding any discrimination and nation first approach in every context is the need of the hour. The entire society should come together and stand up with such beliefs.
Due to the passage of time, certain evils continue to plague our society - discrimination, petty selfishness, etc. These arise from the desire for worldly benefits, for wealth, and for materialistic gratification, etc., and complicit our mind, words, and deeds.
To be free from these entanglements, one has to lead an exemplary life of good conduct. Such enlightened souls (examples) help in building equitable societies. And such societies that are equitable and free from exploitation create an inner force that protects freedom.
There are enough agencies, powers, and people who are working in their selfish interests to divide society by confusing, provoking, or creating conflicts amongst various sections of the society. These groups operate not only within the country but also from outside the country. Only when the society is alert, well-organized and strong it can win over such forces that are bent to break it or divide it.
We must develop and establish constant and transparent communication channels within every single stratum of society. In a free and democratic country, citizens have the right to choose and elect their representatives for themselves. Such representatives should pursue the work in the overall interest of the country to the best of their ability and discretion and should prefer national interest above the ideology of the parties. They must maintain general knowledge of the law, constitution, civil discipline and its faithful observance is most essential for a successful democracy. However, in recent times, some of these virtues have deteriorated. The erosion caused by it is due to the gimmicks of politics that are present in front of all of us.
During disputes among people, speech incontinence (which is now a general rule in social media) to prove bravery is also one of the major reasons why politics is moving away from the nation to parties; and from parties to just degrading others. Every one of us, including the leadership, should get away from such conduct and maintain the discipline of citizenship. The rule of law has to be followed and an atmosphere of respect has to be created.
Any kind of change anywhere in the world can only be brought about when society itself is capable, competent and effective. No change can exist over a long time if society is weak, vulnerable or fragile.
For the society to develop a system based on ‘Swa” by taking the good things in both the age-old system and the prevailing system it has to have four basic qualities – clear knowledge of ‘Swa’, patriotism, individual and societal discipline and a sense of unity.
Superior materialistic knowledge, high quality skills, good governance, administration etc., will only help that society and country which stands united.
At this time of celebrating ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsava’, which we have achieved though great sacrifices and hardships, we have to continue to work hard with the same amount of dedication to take India to the pinnacle of its glory.
Let us accelerate on this journey with enthusiasm, clarity, and determination.
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\Samvad

Shravana Shukla 3 Vik. Samvat 2079, Yugabda 5124 : 1 August, 2022:SM 4009 (For Private Circulation only)


1. FESTIVALS: KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI 2. IN HUMANS, THE FITTEST WILL HELP THE WEAK TO SURVIVE: RSS SARSANGHCHALAK
3. BHARAT AN IMMORTAL NATION: DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT 4. BHARAT’S FIRST TRIBAL RASHTRAPATI DROUPADI MURMU
5. PROTECT ENVIRONMENT FOR FUTURE: RASHTRAPTI KOVIND IN HIS FAREWELL MESSAGE TO NATION 6. BHARAT - A TEMPLE OF KNOWLEDGE:DATTATREYA HOSABALE
7. SPIRITUALITY IS THE SOUL OF OUR NATION – SHRI NAIDU  8. HSS DALLAS, USA 
9. BALAGOKULAM NAPERVILLE AURORA 10. HINDU SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH - SANSKRITI SHAKHA – MILWAUKEE - SHAKHA FAMILY CAMP
11. SEWA CANADA INTERNATIONAL AID INC  12. FIRST HINDU TEMPLE INAUGURATED IN MADAGASCAR
13. ANCIENT TEMPLE DISCOVERED IN AN 8000 YEARS OLD ARCHAEOLOGICAL RUINS IN SAUDI ARABIA 14. BAPS SWAMINARAYAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE, SYDNEY
15. 1200-year-old Lord Vishnu idol unearthed in J&K 16. WITH $87 BILLION, BHARAT TOP REMITTANCE RECIPIENT IN 2021, SAYS UNITED NATION REPORT
17. BHARATIYAS TOP IN IMMIGRANT FOUNDERS OF US UNICORNS 18. BHARATIYAS NOW GET VISA-FREE ACCESS TO 60 COUNTRIES
19. ISRO LAUNCHED SATELLITES FOR 34 COUNTRIES, EARNED $279 MILLION 20. HOLY ‘RAMAYANA MONTH’ BEGINS IN KERALA
21. RSS SENIOR PRACHARAK VINAYAKRAO KANETKAR PASSES AWAY 22. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN
Article: A YATRA TO UNDERSTAND ANCIENT INDIAN SCIENCE

1. FESTIVALS: KRISHNA JANMASHTAMI: Krishna Janmashtami, also known as Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is an annual festival that celebrates the birth of Bhagwan Sri Krishna. It is observed on the Ashtami of the Krishna Paksha in Bhadrapada (August 18 this year).

Temples are decorated and the Bal Murtis of Bhagwan Sri Krishna are worshipped throughout the day till midnight when Sri Krishna was born. Singing Bhajans, playing dance-drama enactments of the life of Krishna according to the Bhagavata Purana (such as Rasa Lila or Krishna Lila), fasting and a night vigil are a part of the Janmashtami celebrations. At some places a tradition of Dahi Handi also organised. It is celebrated particularly in Mathura and Vrindavan and in the other states of Bharat. Devotees all over world in particularly in Nepal, Bangaladesh, Mauritius, Suriname, Guyana, Fiji, Reunion etc also celebrate Krishna Janmashtami.  -GoTop 

2. IN HUMANS, THE FITTEST WILL HELP THE WEAK TO SURVIVE: RSS SARSANGHCHALAK: “Mere survival can’t be the goal of life. Even Animals do survive. Without intelligence, man is the weakest animal on the earth. But in the course of evolution, cognitive impulse developed in him which changed his course of his life and he became the best creation. Even animals do things like eating, drinking and expanding own species,” Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat said. He was delivering the first convocation address of Sri Sathya University in Bengaluru on July 13.
“The survival of the fittest is the law of the jungle. This truth is applicable to animals not humans. Among humans, the fittest person will make others survive. The fittest will help the weakest to survive. To use your faculties to make the world grow, to make it happier, peaceful is being human,” the Sarsanghchalak added.
Dr Mohan Bhagwat presented honorary doctorates to six eminent personalities during the occasion. Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence was established at Kalaburagi district in Karnataka. It aims to impart high-quality, values-based education, on the foundation of ancient Bharatiya ideals. 
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3. BHARAT AN IMMORTAL NATION: DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT: RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat said Bharat is an immortal nation with a unique essence of morality which brings peace and unites every country in the world. Dr. Bhagwat was speaking on July 18 at a religious discourse in a temple at Nagpur in Maharashtra.
Citing Swami Vivekananda, the RSS Sarsanghchalak said that every nation has a specific purpose. The nation emerges and prospers to fulfil that specific purpose. It then becomes history and withers away like the Roman Empire. "But, our nation's purpose is such that it is amar (immortal). We have the essence of 'dharmatatva' (morality) which balances the life of everyone in the world, brings peace and unites everyone. Bharat has the unique "dharmatatva" which keeps people, groups and also nature in a proper form with human development without harming the environment," Dr Bhagwat said. 
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4. BHARAT’S FIRST TRIBAL RASHTRAPATI DROUPADI MURMU: Marking an incredible journey from Rairangpur to Raisina Hills, Droupadi Murmu was sworn in as the 15th Rashtrapati of Bharat on July 25. Murmu, 64, the youngest Rashtrapati yet, and the first to be born in independent Bharat, was administered the oath of office by Chief Justice of Bharat, N V Ramana in the Central Hall of Parliament packed with dignitaries.
Rashtrapati Murmu - the first tribal head of state and the second woman in the top constitutional post,  succeeds Shri Ram Nath Kovind.
Wearing a traditional tri-coloured Santhali saree that acknowledged her tribal roots, Rashtrapati Murmu in her maiden address quoted Odia poet Bhima Bhoi’s prayer to Bhagwan Jagannath and said that the welfare of the Universe is important, even if one has to suffer the most for that. She acknowledged the contributions of all freedom fighters in Bharat’s freedom struggle and also referred to the sacrifice of ‘Dharti Aaba’ Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Murmu also laid emphasis on the need to take pride in Bharat’s ancient traditions that blend growth and environment preservation. 
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5. PROTECT ENVIRONMENT FOR FUTURE: RASHTRAPTI KOVIND IN HIS FAREWELL MESSAGE TO NATION: In his farewell address to the nation on July 24, outgoing Rashtrapati Ram Nath Kovind said that mother nature is in deep agony and the climate crisis can endanger the very future of this planet. He appealed to all to protect the environment for the coming generations. Emphasising that the country is getting equipped to make the 21st century “the century of Bharat”, Kovind highlighted the importance of healthcare and education. Referring to his interaction with the Bharatiya diaspora during his visits abroad, Kovind said that he found their love and concern for the homeland very touching. Kovind said that among the most memorable moments of his life has been visiting his home during his term and touching the feet of his teachers at Kanpur to seek their blessings. 
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6. BHARAT - A TEMPLE OF KNOWLEDGE:DATTATREYA HOSABALE: During the inauguration of a new building of Maharashtra Education Society’s Institute of Management and Career Courses (IMCC), Pune, on July 20,  RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale said that Bharat has been a temple of knowledge since ancient times.
Now youth should become teachers again and go all over the world and make the whole world civilized. Shri Hosabale also said that he keeps visiting institutions in the education sector in the country as well as abroad. Every year three and a half lakh management students graduate in our country. He added that like IT, Bharat can carve out a special place in the field of management and can create a wonderful world with our management skills.
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7. SPIRITUALITY IS THE SOUL OF OUR NATION – SHRI NAIDU: Uprashtrapati Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu on July 24 said that Bharatiya civilisation stands for the universal values of unity, peace and social harmony and called for a ‘spiritual renaissance’ to preserve and propagate these age-old values. While releasing the book, “Sing, Dance and Pray – the inspirational story of Srila Prabhupada”, authored by Dr. Hindol Sengupta and published by ISKCON Bengaluru at New Delhi, Uprashrapati appealed to youngsters to take inspiration from great saints and spiritual masters like Swami Prabhupada. He said that spirituality has been the soul of our nation and the foundation of our civilisation since ancient times. Praising our ancient scriptures for their transcendental spiritual value, Shri Naidu said that for millennia, they have been manuals directing people to lead an ideal life based on ethics and values. 
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8. HSS DALLAS, USA: On July 15, volunteers of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) and Sewa USA from Flower Mound and Coppell in Denton Texas, along with their families, served meals at Our Daily Bread facility in Texas. Our Daily Bread feeds, shelters, and cares for the homeless and at-risk in our community while maintaining the dignity of the guests and offering opportunities for a new start. Volunteers from HSS and Sewa USA helped in decorating the cookies which were then served along with meals to the guests and around 100+ meals were served by the volunteers.
Development Director and Volunteer Coordinator from Our Daily Bread provided an overview of their work and facility, including their plan to expand to the new location this year. HSS and Sewa had a fruitful conversation about future partnerships and volunteering opportunities. 
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9. BALAGOKULAM NAPERVILLE AURORA: On July 9, volunteers from HSS Aurora-Naperville-Balagokulam and Sewa  volunteers cleaned the 75th street as part of Adopt-A-Highway program.
The event was attended by a good mix of youth and adults. Several bags of plastic waste and general waste were collected as part of the clean up. The high energy volunteers are eager to return and sustain the effort to rid plastic waste one street at a time. 
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10. HINDU SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH - SANSKRITI SHAKHA – MILWAUKEE - SHAKHA FAMILY CAMP: Approx 118 swayamsevaks and sevikas (36 families) came together for an overnight family camp in the second week of July.  One of the focus areas of the camp was introducing HSS to Dharma Internship Program families & encourage them to continue attending shakha. A  variety of activities were conducted during the family camp including nature walk / hike on the lake, Outdoor games, Indoor quiz, Maha khel.  Debate on interesting current topic, Shakha games and Campfire was also organised.
The participants also experienced camping in tents and had the opportunity to do Sewa through various sessions. 
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11. SEWA CANADA INTERNATIONAL AID INC: Sewa Canada International Aid Inc became instrumental in setting up 6 Oxygen Plants (100 LPM to 800 LPM) with Electrical Generator units in Bharat. The oxygen plants were installed & commissioned in Rajasthan & Assam as part of Sewa Canada’s commitment to provide long term Oxygen requirements in remote and rural hospitals, as part of the COVID-19 Relief in Bharat program.
These 6 plants were funded via partnership with Trillium Health Partners Foundation, with on-site implementation/supervision by Sewa International Bharat. On June 26, ambulances sponsored by Sewa Canada International were commissioned in Ernakulam district of Kerala, Bharat, to serve the needy. 
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12. FIRST HINDU TEMPLE INAUGURATED IN MADAGASCAR: A grand first Hindu temple was inaugurated on July 26 in Antananarivo, the capital city of Madagascar. Bharatiya Ambassador to Madagascar and Comoros Abhay Kumar participated in the event.
Speaking on the occasion, president of the Hindu Samaj Sanjeev Hematlal said that the opening of the grand temple is a matter of great pride for the Hindu community in Madagascar. There are over 20,000 people of Bharatiya origin in Madagascar. The new grand temple will help them to get together more often and strengthen the spirit of the community. Bharatiyas arrived in Madagascar in the late 18th century, mostly from Gujarat, in small boats to engage in Indian Ocean trade and since then have greatly contributed to the development of trade and commerce in Madagascar. 
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13. ANCIENT TEMPLE DISCOVERED IN AN 8000 YEARS OLD ARCHAEOLOGICAL RUINS IN SAUDI ARABIA:  The Saudi Heritage Commission discovered an 8000 years old archaeological site at the site of Al-Faw, south-west of the country’s capital, Riyadh.
Among the many discoveries at the site, the most significant one was the remains of a stone temple and parts of an altar, with clear indications that a life of ceremonies, worship and rituals were intrinsic to the lives of Al-Faw locals once upon a time. The rock cut temple sits on the edge of Mount Tuwaiq, known as Khashem Qaryah, east of Al-Faw. The site also confirms the existence of a complex, aesthetic and well-planned city with foundations of four monumental buildings, corner towers, internal plans, and open-air courtyards. More importantly, the discoveries at the Al-Faw site demonstrates that a culture of temples, rituals and idol worship predated the monolithic, non-idol worshipers, anti-temple practises of Islam that exist there today. 
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14. BAPS SWAMINARAYAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE, SYDNEY: At the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sydney  the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, Australia was inaugurated.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj blessed the event via a live webcast from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Bharat, and lit the inaugural divo to open the institute on July 24. On this occasion, Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami was present to give his expert guidance and explanations. 88 representatives from 41 organizations including religious and community leaders and media personnel were present on the occasion. The research institute will include in-depth teaching of Hindu shastras, Sanskrit, the Akshar–Purushottam Upasana and traditional Hindu practices. Earlier, on June 18, a similar research centre was opened in Riobinsville, New Jersey, USA. 
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15. 1200-year-old Lord Vishnu idol unearthed in J&K:On July 27, a Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums team confirmed that the sculptures, found by residents of Gudasathoo village of Budgwam while digging land, dates back roughly to the 9th Century AD  and is around 1,200 years old.
The sculpture is a three-headed form with four arms. It has a lotus on the upper right hand of the idol. The expert team informed that the sculpture is a mix of Gandhara and Mathura School of Art. Another sculpture was recovered from Budgam’s Khag area. On examination, the team of Department Archives, Archaeology and Museums found out that the sculpture is part of Panch Mukh. Both the artefacts were handed over to Deputy Director, Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kashmir by the police. 
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16. WITH $87 BILLION, BHARAT TOP REMITTANCE RECIPIENT IN 2021, SAYS UNITED NATION REPORT: Bharat received 87 billion dollars in remittances in 2021, the top remittance recipient, and way ahead of countries like China and Mexico, according to a World Health Organisation report released on July 20.
With USD 87 billion, Bharat was the top remittance recipient among low and middle-income countries, as per 2021 estimates, way ahead of China and Mexico’s 53 billion dollars, the Philippines (36 billion dollars) and Egypt (33 billion dollars). The United States was the largest source country for remittances in 2020, followed by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Switzerland. Remittances increase or maintain consumer spending and soften the blow of economic hardship, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic. 
The report said that remittances are an “important and positive” economic result of migration for migrants themselves and for family and friends remaining in their home countries. 
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17. BHARATIYAS TOP IN IMMIGRANT FOUNDERS OF US UNICORNS: More than half (319 of 582) of America's startup companies valued at $1 billion or more - known as unicorns - have at least one immigrant founder. Bharat, with 66 companies, tops the chart as the country of origin for the immigrant founders of US unicorns, shows a report released by National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP).
Immigrants from Israel founded the second-most billion-dollar companies at 54, followed by the UK (27), Canada (22), China (21), France (18), Germany (15), Russia (11), Ukraine (10), and Iran (8).
The NFAP research has identified at least 10 immigrants who have founded two or more unicorns. Four of them are from Bharat - Mohit Aron (founded Nutanix & Cohesity), Ashutosh Garg (Bloomreach & Eightfold.ai), Ajeet Singh (Nutanix & ThoughtSpot), and Jyoti Bansal (AppDynamics & Harness). The others are Al Goldstein (born in Uzbekistan), Noubar Afeyan (Lebanon), Ignacio Martinez (Spain), Elon Musk (South Africa), Sebastian Thrun (Germany), and Ion Stoica (Romania).
The collective value of the 319 immigrant-founded companies is $1.2 trillion, which is more than the value of the companies listed on the major stock markets of many countries, including the Brazil Stock Exchange ($925 billion), Madrid Stock Exchange ($727 billion), and Singapore Exchange ($679 billion).
In addition to the 319 billion-dollar startups with at least one immigrant founder, NFAP identified 133 other companies with at least one immigrant in a key leadership position, such as CEO, CTO or VP of engineering. 
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18. BHARATIYAS NOW GET VISA-FREE ACCESS TO 60 COUNTRIES: In a recently released global passport ranking chart, Bharat has ranked 87 among 199 passports.
The Henley Passport Index defines the strength of diplomatic relations of countries with each other. The more 'ease of access' a country offers to others, the higher its ranking. The data to compile this index was derived from International Air Transport Association (IATA).
In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Bharat had access to only 23 countries. But now, Bharatiya passport holders will get visa-free access to these 60 countries.  The Henley Passport Index is published quarterly and in the last quarter, Bharat had ranked 83, up from the 90th position in 2021's rankings. The top ranks in the Henley Passport Index were secured by the following countries: Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and Germany.  The countries at the bottom are: Pakistan, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan. Japan has topped the index with Japanese passport holders enjoying easy access to 193 countries. In 2020, they had easy access to 76 countries. 
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19. ISRO LAUNCHED SATELLITES FOR 34 COUNTRIES, EARNED $279 MILLION: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), through its commercial arms, has earned $279 million in foreign exchange by launching satellites for global clients, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said in the Lok Sabha on July 27.
Shri Singh said that ISRO in association with its commercial arms has successfully launched 345 foreign satellites from 34 countries on-board Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). "Total foreign exchange revenue earned through launching of foreign satellites amounts to $56 million (one million=10 lakhs) and 220 million Euros approximately," Shri Singh said. As per current exchange rates, 220 million euros are equivalent to $223 million.
The latest PSLV mission was on June 30 when ISRO's warhorse launch vehicle placed three Singaporean satellites into orbit. PSLV-C53 mission by ISRO, successfully launched three Singapore customer satellites namely DS-EO, NeuSAR and SCOOB-1. 
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20. HOLY ‘RAMAYANA MONTH’ BEGINS IN KERALA: Reciting the divine story of Bhagwan Sri Ramchandra, the Ramayana month observance began in Kerala on July 17.
The Hindus in Kerala observe ‘Karkidakam’, the last month in the Malayalam calendar as Ramayana month, chanting the verses from Adhyatma Ramayana, Malayalam translation of Valmiki Ramayana by medieval poet Thunchath Ramanujan Ezhuthachan.
Karkidakam month is dedicated to chanting Ramayana, prayers, and worship of Lord Rama. The month is considered inauspicious for deeds other than the worship of God. All the temples and households observe the holy month of Ramayana. This year, Karkidakam spans from July 17 to August 15.
RSS Pracharak, the late P. Parameswaran, affectionately called Parameswarji, popularised the Ramayana among the ordinary Hindu families in Kerala. Ramayana Masacharanam, or observing Ramayana month in Karkkidakam at Hindu temples and homes, was a concept mooted by Parameswarji at the Vishala Hindu Sammelanam held in Kochi in the late 1970s. 
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21. RSS SENIOR PRACHARAK VINAYAKRAO KANETKAR PASSES AWAY: RSS senior Pracharak and former Sanghatan Mantri of Akhil Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal Shri Vinayak Vishwanath Kanetkar (age 83 years) passed away on July 18 at Kaushik Ashram in Pune. Vinayakrao Kanetkar was born on September 5, 1939. He did his MA in Economics from Fergusson College, Pune. After serving in Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad from 1961 to 1963, he became a full-time Pracharak of the RSS. He was among the first few swayamsevaks who went to North-East Bharat for RSS work. He was one of those who laid the foundation of what we see today as Sangh’s work from Assam to Arunachal Pradesh. He worked in very unfavourable conditions.
Kanetkar held the responsibility as the Prant Sah Bouddhik Pramukh of Assam for 12 years from 1984. He then worked in the Itihas Sankalan Yojana from 1996 to 2003. He was the Akhil Bharatiya Sah-Sangathan Mantri of the Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal from 2003 to 2007 and Sangathan Mantri from 2007 to 2016. Vinayak Kanetkar was relieved of all liability in 2016 after more than five decades of dedicated work. Presently he was staying at Kaushik Ashram.
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22. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: PRAVAS: VISITORS: Lalit Jha - USA


FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Through selfless service, you will always be fruitful and find the fulfillment of your desires. ― Srimad Bhagavad Gita 
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JAI SHRI RAM
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A YATRA TO UNDERSTAND ANCIENT INDIAN SCIENCE
Balakrishnan Satyam
Vijnana Yatra envisages journey through scientific heritage to ignite minds to further build greater edifice of discoveries

The word pilgrimage carries immediate connotations. It is a trip undertaken to offer thanks. We embark on it to experience a higher state, an elevation — sometimes physically represented by a hill summit. The determined spiritual seekers go into deep forests and remote mountain caves, while the more ordinary among us visit major and lesser shrines that honour deities, saints, or ascetics. Likewise, our scientific teams go as far as Antarctica or dive under sea to study ancient port cities. They journey to remote places to study the grammar structure in isolated dialects as spoken currently. So we too ourselves can undertake modest but stimulating itineraries.
The benefits of a Vijnana Yatra are closely comparable to any Teerth Yatra or trips to holy sites. Let’s make the comparison in some details. Science has given our lives many things we can be thankful for — life saving medicine, effort saving appliances, entertainment devices, speedy transport, and when we look to our history — Ayurveda, astronomy, semantics, calisthenics with a holistic approach, textiles, manuscripts on constructing structures, mathematics and many more.

It takes us to a higher plane of knowledge — through particle physics, the study of genes, molecular structure, carbon compounds, life cycle of stars, and marine biology. It powerfully harnesses wind, solar, hydel, hydrocarbon and atomic energy. There are modern plants and installations where hundreds of megawatts are generated and distributed.
Our scientific research, like our pilgrimages, connects us with the larger forces and mysteries of Nature. Like scripture, it gives us an opportunity to ally with a tradition of belief and dedication. Science has an organised body of updated theory and ongoing saga of rigorous research. It is a fine example of proceeding with established knowledge and determinedly pursuing new results. The struggles of scientists, their perseverance and steadfastness can serve as lessons for us.
Exploring our scientific heritage in an intensive and educative way is vastly different from forwarding vainglorious WhatsApp messages about fortress designs, and rust-free columns. A Vijnana Yatra can be empowering to give insights, while also being inspirational — a pilgrimage that helps us develop and apply a scientific approach to more aspects of our lives.
We need better curated walk-throughs of Ayurveda and ancient astronomy. The emphasis has to be on how the knowledge was obtained, how it was applied, and the extent of proof or results obtained. An input from today’s scientists can be of help to us in connecting ancient records with the current frontiers of knowledge and application.
Scientific knowledge quite often has economic and cultural implications. An institution such as the Calico Museum in Amdavad conveys information on the manual, technical, chromatic, aesthetic, social, commercial and historical aspects of weaving in an inter-related manner. Our prominent science museums help us understand basic laws in physics through their apparatus displays. The planetariums create a mind-expanding experience by helping us conceive how vast the galaxies and nebulae are. The Jantar Mantar in various cities tells us a fascinating story of how techniques and implements were devised to measure distances to celestial bodies with remarkable accuracy.
Our manuscript museums and preservation centres in Pune, Thanjavur, Tirupati, Varanasi, Guwahati, Shravanabelagola, Sambhalpur, Nalanda, Gaya, Kolkata, Guwahati and elsewhere hold centuries-old commentaries and detailed debates on methods, rules of evidence, atoms and states of matter, and the experiencing of eternity.
To really cherish something we have, we should actually feel thankful for it. Without such a felt gratitude, we merely take all that long legacy for granted, which we can wave airily at and swagger about. When we sincerely treasure knowledge, we have an idea of how it is gleaned, refined and transmitted.
We can actually appreciate the human attentiveness and diligence required for these processes.
Isaac Newton said that he saw because he stood on the shoulders of giants, and we have more reasons than anyone to be grateful to so many savants, sages, scholars and scribes for adding to the wealth in almost every generation to the extent the general circumstances allowed.
Tours need promoters. Traditional bus tour operators typically offer religious tours of a week or two, and similarly the online travel portals should be able to
easily market Vijnana Yatras to colleges, where they can do an informative three-hour pre-tour orientation. Not only would such a trip be relevant to science and engineering students, it’s easy to chalk out customised itineraries for life science or mathematics or linguistics students. The idea of relating concepts to actual places, objects, history and people, is to take the successors physically closer to their vast legacy in enquiry and systematic knowledge.
To extend support and encourage such Vijnana Yatras, the railways can subsidise these bookings or have the fare partially borne by the Ministry of Science and Technology. Over time, various student groups can be safely expected to assemble and edit video clips from their tour and upload the content to an online platform, which itself would be richly informative to all students. Labs, factory floors, power stations, observatories, botanical hothouses, sanctuary parks, heritage institutions, museums, archives have lessons to offer about nature, society and scientific principles. Not only young students, other types of visitor groups — families, corporate groups, media teams, bureaucrats, science publishers and others — could find them appealing and useful.
In our country especially, pilgrims derive satisfaction from a dip in a lake or river, or from wearing certain clothes during the journey. To satisfy such needs, it shouldn’t be difficult to develop selfie points and suitable souvenirs to celebrate these Vijnana Yatras.
There is a true saying that you can take a fellow pilgrim to the river bank, but it’s up to him or her to take a dip. Science itself is a body of evidence about a unifying supreme principle as there is an unmistakable similarity of structure across the basic laws operating in Nature. The spirit of science is to share and explore patterns in the vast universe around us, and not to thrust limiting conclusions or narrow dogmas. Its message is always to foray towards a further frontier.
The common faith that drives both the Teerth as well as the Vijnana Yatra is that with an openness and a seeking, we receive glimpses and have insights by the hour and by the day. Over a few years, they add up to a vision of what is true and properly aligned with the universal principle. Thus, pilgrimages are cumulative. They begin in the very first step of the journey and are not only about a grand culmination at the end.
This is why inculcating a scientific outlook in our everyday living does so much for us as it encourages an active intellect and alert senses and reasoning in every individual. Underestimating the place of science can make us rely heavily on some revelation experiences of a few. Taking sound guidance where it’s available can be advantageous. Placing our trust could also serve us. However, a detailed understanding of a masterpiece in its outer and inner dimensions is the best tribute and salute to its creator, and reached only through scientific knowledge.
(The writer is a creative director, advertising faculty.) https://www.dailypioneer.com/2022/columnists/a-yatra-to-understand-ancient-indian-science.html Saturday, 23 July 2022 
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