Sadhguru Explains Why Valuing History is Essential for India's Future Development | Vande Mataram Debate

'No Future If A Nation Doesn't Value History': Sadhguru On Vande Mataram Row

"If there is no inspiration, who will fulfill the plan?" Sadhguru questioned, referencing Viksit Bharat's vision.

New Delhi:

Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, founder of Isha Foundation, emphasized to NDTV's Padmaja Joshi that a nation disregarding its historical heritage cannot construct a meaningful future. When questioned about the significance of discussions surrounding the National Song Vande Mataram on its 150th anniversary, Sadhguru highlighted that the song embodies both unification and inspiration - with inspiration being the critical element propelling national progress.

The Congress party has strongly criticized the two-day parliamentary discussion on Vande Mataram. Senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra suggested it was strategically timed for the upcoming Bengal assembly elections and served as a distraction from pressing issues.

Sadhguru stated: "Despite our intelligence, competence, resources, and rich civilizational heritage, without inspiration, our progress this generation will be limited. This will significantly hamper the next generation's potential."

This forward momentum, he explained, aligns with the "Viksit Bharat" vision targeted for 2047.

"I've been questioning - we identify as a developing country. How long will we remain in this developing phase? There must be a transition to developed status. At least now there's a concrete plan for 2047. Whether we achieve 100% or 80% of that goal remains to be seen. But importantly, a plan exists. And plans require inspiration. Without inspiration, who will execute the plan?" he questioned.

Addressing concerns about potential alienation caused by the national song, Sadhguru noted there are "certain ideologies rejecting national identity."

"Whether discussing communism or caliphate, formerly called khilafat, these ideologies reject national identity. That's acceptable. I personally don't fixate on national identity either. I would prefer a single global identity," he remarked.

While acknowledging the Viksit Bharat plan may have imperfections, like most plans, he emphasized the crucial need for nationwide support and collaborative effort toward its realization.

When asked if India was heading in the right direction, Sadhguru responded affirmatively. He cited two key indicators: improved health outcomes and increased life expectancy compared to 1947.

Regarding infrastructure development, he noted remarkable progress, pointing to urban pollution as evidence of increased vehicle ownership. "No other nation is developing infrastructure at our current pace," he asserted.

While conceding the situation requires refinement, he maintained it demonstrates forward momentum.

"We must recognize our relatively young 75-plus years as an independent nation. Have we performed optimally? Personally, I believe we could do better. However, comparing our 75-year journey with other nations reveals we're significantly outperforming many," Sadhguru concluded.