In a passionate address at a religious conference, BJP leader C.T. Ravi delivered a robust defence of Sanatan Dharma, asserting that despite attempts by some political leaders to undermine it during election campaigns, the ancient faith continues to flourish and influence the world positively.
Speaking at the Sharannavaratri Dasara Dharma Conference in Abbigeri village on Wednesday, Ravi stated, “Those who attempted to erase Sanatan Dharma have themselves vanished, while Sanatan Dharma continues to grow and guide the world because it seeks universal welfare.” His remarks highlighted the resilience of the faith, which he believes embodies principles of compassion and inclusivity.
Ravi went on to address pressing contemporary issues by differentiating between “Rajadharma” (the duty of governance) and “Rashtradharma” (national duty). He explained, “Rajadharma means treating everyone equally, while Rashtradharma means standing united for the country beyond caste and religion.” This distinction was presented as a framework for addressing current societal divisions.
The BJP leader expressed alarm over what he described as “anti-national behaviour,” citing incidents where individuals celebrated Pakistan’s cricket victories over India or declined to chant patriotic slogans like “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” He cautioned that “those who don’t embrace Rashtradharma say ‘Bharat tere tukde honge’ (India will be broken into pieces),” suggesting that such sentiments threaten national unity.
In his address, Ravi championed the idea that Sanatan Dharma transcends caste and religious boundaries. He quoted the revered 12th-century philosopher Basavanna, who said, “Show compassion to all living beings.” Emphasising that Sanatan Dharma focuses on global welfare, he argued that it has no inherent limitations imposed by social hierarchies.
Addressing the contentious issue of the caste system, Ravi acknowledged its existing reality but insisted that ethical values must take precedence in modern India. He referred to esteemed figures such as APJ Abdul Kalam, Lord Ram, and Satyaharishchandra, highlighting their ethical conduct rather than their caste identities as the basis for their reverence.
Ravi concluded his speech by voicing concerns about modern society’s fixation on caste at the expense of ethical values. He lamented, “Today, we have abandoned ethics and clung to caste. It’s regrettable that we defend wrongdoers simply because they belong to our caste.” This statement reflects a broader call for a shift in focus towards universal ethical principles rather than divisive identities.
The conference, part of the Sharannavaratri celebrations, attracted significant attention from local residents and religious leaders, underscoring the ongoing relevance of Sanatan Dharma in contemporary society. Ravi’s remarks resonate with a growing sentiment that seeks to reinforce national unity while advocating for ethical governance and social harmony.
Through this event, C.T. Ravi reinforced his commitment to upholding the tenets of Sanatan Dharma and encouraged attendees to embrace a vision of inclusivity that transcends caste and religious divisions, aligning with the principles of compassion and ethical conduct that lie at the heart of the faith.