2,500 years have passed since Sri Adi Shankaracharya's enlightenment, yet his teachings remain profoundly relevant and continue to guide today's youth.
The Maha Upanishad introduces the concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' encapsulating the idea that the world is one family with a shared future. Our habits play a crucial role in maintaining a harmonious and sustainable world.
It is the imperfect who label one person as a friend and another as an enemy. A perfected individual sees the world as a unified whole. To achieve global peace, we must cultivate advanced souls. Conflicts arise from the divisive mindset of distinguishing enemies from friends. In such a dynamic world, education alone is insufficient for peace; cultivating good habits from childhood or adolescence is essential.
In India, with its significant youth demographic aged 15 to 35, the adoption of good habits can lead our nation to set a global example by our 100th Independence Day in 2047. Adi Shankara's teachings offer valuable insights for this journey.
Humility:
One should not become arrogant about youth, wealth, influence, education, position, or fame. Many people experience sudden changes in life, such as health issues or financial losses, reminding us that nothing is permanent. We cannot take material possessions with us after death; only our deeds accompany us. True education fosters humility, and without humility, education is incomplete.
Balanced Wealth:
It is sufficient to earn only what we need and save accordingly. Obsession with money is unnecessary. Fields like civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering are vital for national development. While many students gravitate towards Computer Science, AI, and Machine Learning for high-paying jobs, those who study other fields will also find success in the long run. Just as a reed vine grows quickly but has a short lifespan, a palm tree grows slowly but endures for many years. Students should aim to contribute to the country's development rather than chasing immediate wealth. Choose a career you love that benefits society and the nation.
Contentment:
True joy lies in not desiring excess. Embrace a mindset that values sufficiency and rejects excess. Be content with what you have and understand that the material world is an illusion. Detachment from this illusion and evil is necessary for liberation. However, maintain a commitment to your country. The youth should strive to do good for the nation with noble intentions.
It is remarkable that Sri Aadi Shankar's teachings continue to inspire us 2,500 years later, guiding us towards a better future.