Nixon Fernando

Dharma Nixon Fernando

The mercurial TN Seshan was effective in transforming the Election Commission of India because he upheld the rule of law without compromise. But his resilience was inspired by a spiritual dimension anchored on the principle of 'Dharma'. Dharma is in fact divine rule of Law and duty attached to it. Dharma has the ability to push the one who practices it (and the team he leads) towards excellence; and that too while imparting a great sense of peace, satisfaction and contentment. If Lord Rama were alive today, he who was known for upholding Dharma, he would have defended the Indian Constitution just as he stood up for Monarchy during his time. This should be a pointer on how values can be inducted into public life. Apparently, due to its relevance to polity, it is evident that Dharma is not essentially a religious principle. In fact it is much more and has equivalents in most other religions; Dhammam from Buddhism, Jihad from Islam, obedience to the Word of God from Christian faith and so on. Understanding the dimensions and applicability of this concept is key for it to work wonders for individuals and teams. It was the bed rock of motivation in the Indian Civilization and only its use in the proper sense is likely to restore public life in the Indian sub-continent to the high values, which in turn can make the Indian nation a darling of the world. The once Golden Bird, the Go-to place famous all over the world, 27% of the global GDP, these attributes were not achieved by fluke. There was a robust and systematic method of research and transfer of knowledge that was unique to the Sindu-Land. The insights which the ancients had, regarding human nature, especially human 'divine' nature, was instrumental in the development of methods, traditions and practices that made the Hindu civilization prosper. Dharma was an application that emerged out of deep wisdom. Understanding how Dharma worked in the centuries gone by is key to realizing its amazing potential for today. This wisdom at the substratum of this concept is very often referred to as the 'Greatest treasure known to man'. It is capable of transformation of individuals and societies and, as Aadi Sankara says, its application "Dharma is the greatest Benefactor". One that desires to lead his trustees to greater heights must understand how this outstanding motivator works. A logical thinker, grounded in reality should be able to see the straightforwardness of the enduring principle. A great idea. It can make India Great Again and bring peace to the world...