New Delhi: Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar presided over the second Global Conference of Meditation Leaders held at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the significance of meditation as a source of strength and guidance during challenging times.
“In the dark tunnel of depression and despondency, meditation emerges as a beacon of hope. It’s a North Star for enlightenment and a lighthouse when you are in trouble,” he said.
Meditation possible only in rule-based order, not during war: Jagdeep Dhankar
He said that India’s rich cultural heritage, spanning over 5,000 years, is under threat. Referring to modern challenges, he said, “Meditation can be done in any condition, but not during war. It is only possible when there is rule-based order.”
Dhankhar expressed concern over several pressing issues affecting the nation. He pointed out the dangers of “non-organic demographic dislocation,” which he described as a deliberate and well-planned effort to disrupt India’s demographic balance. He said that this issue, if not addressed in time, could lead to significant consequences.
The Vice-President also highlighted the problem of religious conversions driven by greed. “Our constitution says that everyone has the freedom to adopt any religion. But greed came into it and you changed, and you don’t know what those who are trying to change you are doing,” he said.
He also spoke about historical invasions that disrupted India’s cultural and educational institutions like Vikramshila, Nalanda, and Takshashila. Referring to those times, he said, “Look at the extremity and enormity of barbarity!” However, he expressed optimism about India reclaiming its heritage under the governance of the last decade. “We are fortunate to be living under governance for the last ten years or so, where we are reclaiming our lost glory,” he said.
Meditation is food to our soul, says Jagdeep Dhankhar
The Vice-President reiterated the practicality of meditation and its relevance in modern life. “Meditation is not an abstract idea. Meditation is implementable. It is food for your soul. Meditation helps you head towards self-realisation. Meditation helps you know the other person,” he said.
He also touched upon global concerns regarding electoral processes, citing remarks by the President of the United States. “The President of the United States has revealed with full sense of responsibility that the democratic process of this country was sought to be modulated, manipulated to dent, taint the purity of our election system. I’m sure it emanates from a person in authority. One thing is right, because that is factual: money was given, and the amount was not small,” he said.
