NewKerala.com

Key Points

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan delivered a powerful message about India's unity during the Unmesha International Literature Festival in Patna. He highlighted Bihar's rich intellectual heritage and its role in national transformation, drawing from historical examples of social change. Radhakrishnan explained how Dharma serves as a unifying force across India's diverse linguistic and cultural landscape. His speech celebrated the country's democratic traditions and the power of literature in bridging cultural divides.

Key Points: Dharma Unites India VP Radhakrishnan Reveals at Unmesha Fest

  • VP celebrates Bihar's historical contribution to national leadership
  • Unmesha Festival bridges cultural and linguistic divides
  • Highlights ancient Indian democratic traditions
  • Emphasizes spiritual unity as national strength
2 min read

Dharma is the force behind India's unity in diversity: Vice President

VP C.P. Radhakrishnan highlights India's unity in diversity, Bihar's intellectual legacy, and cultural significance at international literature festival

"Despite the diversity of languages, our Dharma is one. - C.P. Radhakrishnan, Vice President of India"

Patna, Sep 28

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan said on Sunday that understanding of each other's literature can help achieve “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” and described one Dharma as the unifying force in the country.

Addressing the valedictory session of the third edition of Unmesha - International Literature Festival in Patna, the Vice President recalled his interaction with a European dignitary, who asked how India remains united despite its many languages and cultures, to which he replied that: "Despite the diversity of languages, our Dharma is one."

He described Bihar as an intellectual powerhouse of the ancient world, highlighting the state's ancient centres of learning, including Nalanda and Vikramshila Universities.

Highlighting Bihar's role in social change, the Vice President recalled the Champaran Satyagraha led by Mahatma Gandhi and the Total Revolution Movement led by Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan, in which he actively participated at the age of nineteen, later becoming the District General Secretary of the movement.

He noted that Bihar has consistently been a cradle of change and conscience, contributing national leaders like Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India's first President, and Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan, the conscience keeper of Indian democracy.

He said Unmesha signifies the awakening or unfolding of new ideas, narratives, and perspectives, celebrating diversity in thought and bridging divides of language, culture, geography, and ideology. Radhakrishnan expressed confidence that Unmesha will continue to be a cornerstone of literary culture, inspiring future generations of writers, thinkers, and readers.

Radhakrishnan also mentioned Bihar's rich historical heritage, noting that it was home to powerful empires like Magadha and Maurya, as well as the birthplace of democracy in Vaishali over 2,500 years ago.

He drew parallels with the Kudavolai system of elections in the Chola kingdom, emphasising India's ancient commitment to self-governance.

The festival, organised from September 25 to 28, is a celebration of literature in multiple languages, offering an excellent platform for writers, scholars, publishers, and poets from 15 countries, representing more than 100 languages.

Before the valedictory session, a minute of silence was observed for the people who lost their lives in the tragic incident at a public gathering in Karur, Tamil Nadu.

Earlier, on his first visit to Bihar since assuming office, Radhakrishnan was accorded a warm welcome at Patna Airport by Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
As someone from Bihar, I'm proud to see our state's contributions being highlighted. From ancient universities to freedom movements, Bihar has always led the way. Jai Bihar! 🙏
M
Michael C
Interesting perspective on India's unity. The concept of Dharma as unifying force is something unique to Indian civilization. More such literary festivals can help global understanding.
A
Anjali F
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish there was more focus on practical steps to promote literary exchange between states. The idea is good but needs implementation.
K
Karthik V
The mention of Vaishali as birthplace of democracy 2500 years ago is fascinating! Our ancient systems were way ahead of their time. More Indians should know about this heritage.
S
Sarah B
Wonderful to see literature festivals bringing together 100+ languages! This is the real strength of India - unity in diversity through cultural exchange.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50