The 41st State Conference of Bharatiya Vichar Kendra, the Kerala chapter of Prajna Pravah, was inaugurated at Alappuzha by West Bengal Governor C.V. Anandabose IAS (Red.). In his address, the Governor emphasised that Bharatiya Culture and Sanatan Dharma are synonymous, and the essence of Hindu Dharma serves as a focal point for unity.
He asserted that the term “Bharatiyatwa” represents a way of life, not just a religion, and urged the audience to take pride in being Hindus. C.V. Anandabose stressed the importance of Bharatiya culture in mediating between conflicting cultures, emphasising the universality of truths found in the Bhagavad Gita.
R. Sanjan, the director of Vichara Kendram, presided over the event, with Prajna Pravah national coordinator J. Nandakumar and Kendra state president Dr. C.V. Jayamani in attendance. The conference covered various topics, including “Sanatana Dharma and ancient Tamil literature,” “Atmanirbhar Bharat, Developed Bharat @ 47,” and “Consecration of Ayodhya Ram Mandir is the cultural base of national reconstruction.”
During his address on “Consecration of Ayodhya Ram Mandir as the Cultural Base of National Reconstruction,” Prajna Pravah national coordinator J. Nandakumar underscored the paramount importance of the Ram Mandir, equating it with the significance of the country’s independence. According to him, the consecration marks a momentous occasion, serving as the curtain-raiser for the nation’s entry into a glorious era and signaling the beginning of the end of colonialism.
Nandakumar expressed that the soul (atma) of Bharat is awakening, attributing this auspicious moment to the noble deeds of the past. He urged the audience to eliminate any remnants of colonialism lingering in their hearts and emphasised the eradication of the symbol of slavery, with the revival of the image of self-respect.
Rama, as the symbol of the atma of Bharat, holds great significance, and Nandakumar stressed the need to correct historical errors for the sake of social harmony. He quoted the late socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia, who observed that Rama unified the south and north, Sri Krishna united the east and west, and Lord Siva unified the entire country.
Highlighting the cultural connection, Nandakumar mentioned that Rama, Ramayana, and Ayodhya are integral components of the atma of every countryman. He pointed out that Kampa Ramayana was written in the 12th century in Tamil, emphasising the broad reach and cultural diversity associated with the epic.
In a subtle critique, Nandakumar noted that those who truly love Bharat would attend the consecration program in Ayodhya, while others, particularly Communists, have consistently maintained a negative stance towards such cultural events.
Speakers like Dr. Naduvattom Gopalakrishnan, Dr. K.S. Radhakrishan, and Dr. Amrit. G. Kumar shared insights into the profound connection between Sanatana Dharma and Hindutwa. Nandakumar highlighted the significance of the Ram Mandir and its role in cultural reconstruction, drawing parallels with the country’s struggle for independence.
The conference concluded with tributes to K.K. Nair of Alappuzha, who played a pivotal role in advocating for Ayodhya as a Hindu sacred site. Nandakumar acknowledged Nair’s contribution, emphasising the need to remember and honor patriots who stood firm in their convictions.
