Indonesia’s India Connect

President Prabowo’s remark of having Indian DNA reignited intimate debate on the two countries centuries’ old linkages. Dr Gautam Kumar Jha Indonesian President remarked at a post-Republic Day banquet hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, “I have Indian DNA”. This one-liner by chief guest of seventy sixth Indian Republic Day has reignited debate on deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between India and Indonesia. This statement is not just symbolic but reflects centuries of shared heritage, mutual influence and ongoing collaboration that continue to shape relationship between these two vibrant nations. Bonds between India and Indonesia date back over 1600 years marked by spread of Hinduness and Buddhism through trade, migration and cultural exchange. King Samaratungga of Sailendra dynasty that ruled Mataram Kingdom and Srivijaya in eighth and ninth centuries exemplifies this connection. An archaeologist Devendra Nath Thakur, in his study, “Sanskrit Inscriptions of Indonesia” highlighted significance of Karangtengah inscription (824 CE). This inscription underscores foundational role of dharma (righteousness, duty or moral law) in society emphasizing its pervasiveness, purification and role in alleviating human suffering. The inscription articulates how benevolent kings like Samaratungga leveraged dharma to legitimize their rule and foster societal harmony. By promoting dharma, these rulers not only reinforced their authority but ensured ethical governance, contributing to longevity and prosperity of their kingdoms. This historical perspective underscores the enduring relevance of dharma in governance and societal well-being, laying a strong foundation for intimate cultural exchanges that followed. From early centuries, Hindu and Buddhist kings governed large parts of present-day Indonesia spreading Bharatiya (Indian) knowledge and traditions. This long span of exchanges left an indelible mark on Indonesian society, evident in education curriculum where 70 per cent of history taught in high secondary schools focuses on Hindu -Buddhist period and its profound influence. Such deep cultural integration makes Indonesian President’s remark on having Indian DNA both a testament to historic ties and reflection of shared heritage. Assertion by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto that he has Indian lineage is not an isolated off the cuff remark. It underscores deep historical and cultural entanglements between India and Southeast Asia. This is not just the case in Indonesia, though; genetic, cultural and migratory facts have all clearly demonstrated the universal resonance of Indian DNA throughout Europe and Western world. The Roma, who have roots in northwest India, are an acknowledged example. The Roma migrated from India about 1500 years ago, as determined by genetic research including studies published by Nature and Cell. They carry unique markers associated with their Indian ancestry. This link is further supported by linguistic and cultural continuity between Indian and Roma traditions. Genetic and intellectual exchanges between Indian and European civilizations were made straightforward by Indo-Greek experiences, especially those that occurred during Alexander’s invasion of Indian subcontinent (4th century BCE) and Greco-Bactrian and Kushan empires that followed. Archaeological proof includes combination of Indian and Greek iconography in Gandharan art. Beyond traditional migration accounts, more recent genetic research discoveries by Harvard geneticist David Reich show that Indian ancestry has made substantial contribution to global populations. These examples demonstrate how Indian DNA influenced by historical, economic and geopolitical factors has had long-lasting impact on the world highlighting importance of Subianto’s statement in a larger historical and scientific context. During his campaign, President Prabowo emphasized India’s development model, signalling a keen interest in deeper collaboration. This aligns perfectly with eagerness of both Indian and Indonesian stakeholders to elevate bilateral ties. Trade between India and Indonesia has surged beyond US $ 30 billion, reflecting robust economic engagement. In the defence sector, significant progress include negotiations for BrahMos missile system, joint military exercises and plans for joint manufacturing and maintenance of advanced fighter jets like Rafales. Strategic areas such as maritime security and training of Indonesian military personnel are also being prioritized. President Prabowo announced that high-profile Indonesian armed forces personnel will visit India in coming weeks to implement these agreements. This move not only signifies trust but measures that both nations are taking to enhance strategic partnership. Focus on traditional medicine is something to write home about. Integration of Ayurveda with Indonesia’s traditional practices, Jamu, represents a fusion of ancient wisdom and modern healthcare. The meeting on Saturday established a trusted platform for both countries to collaborate for mutual benefit, highlighting importance of preserving and promoting traditional knowledge systems in contemporary settings. India and Indonesia share a rich socio-cultural heritage with many common social traits still evident today. Indonesians are renowned for their humility and politeness, qualities that complement India’s vibrant and diverse culture. While India has made significant advancements in higher education, technology, defence, healthcare, and IT, Indonesia excels in the services sector, agro-products and natural resources, including marine biodiversity. There is substantial potential for collaboration in special research funding focused on shared heritage which can further strengthen bilateral ties. By leveraging each other’s strengths, both countries can address gaps and create a symbiotic relationship. Additionally, Indonesia’s inclusion in BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) will help establish a familial platform, fostering deeper cooperation and integration within the region. Historical interactions between India and Indonesia have fostered unique blend of cultural and traditional practices. Institutions like National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB) in India, established in 2000 under Ministry of Ayush play pivotal role in promoting medicinal plant conservation and sustainable use. Collaboration between Indian and Indonesian institutions can enhance the preservation and cultivation of medicinal plants, supporting both traditional medicine systems. Post-Covid-19, demand for herbal products has risen globally, driven by concerns about antibiotic resistance and safety of synthetic drugs. Both India and Indonesia are poised to capitalize on this trend by promoting traditional medicine through structured frameworks and bilateral agreements. Initiatives like India-Indonesia Bio-Resource Consortium (IIBC) focus on foundational development, advanced research and drug development, integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements. Indonesian President’s remark on his Indian DNA,” encapsulates centuries of intertwined histories. From reign of King Samaratungga to contemporary strategic partnerships, relationship between these two nations is characterized by mutual respect, cultural affinity

Trump's Orders - Impact on Indians and the Diaspora

Bharat United States

458

Trump’s Orders Impact on Indians and The Diaspora

On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump was re-elected to the White House and took oath of office as 47th President of the United States. Without wasting any time, he signed a number of presidential orders on his first day in office to carry out the pledges he made during the campaign. These directives, while intended to address local issues, have important ramifications for populations around the world, especially Indians and the Indian diaspora. The possible effects of these orders on trade, immigration, bilateral relations, and cultural links between India and the US are examined in length in this Explainer.

Trump's Presidency is good for India and Russia, but not so for Europe and China

China United States

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Trump’s Presidency is good for India and Russia, but not so for Europe and China

N. C. Bipindra The transition in the US administration was completed on January 20 with Donald Trump taking over as the President for the second time. But his arrival at the White House has triggered anxiety worldwide, both among US allies and rivals in geopolitics. As the axiom goes, change is the only constant. Donald Trump has voiced a change in the US policy on all matters the world is concerned about. Soon after assuming office, Trump began implementing the policy directions he pushed during the presidential campaign.In the past few days, Trump has signed executive orders that could impact US ties with friends and rivals in Europe and Asia. Among his first decisions, Trump announced withdrawal from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Paris Accords on Climate Change. The U.S. has been a member of the WHO since its formation in 1948. Trump’s order said the US was leaving WHO for mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic that originated in China and due to its inability to demonstrate independence from the inappropriate political influence of WHO members, an indirect reference to China. The US has been the largest funder of the WHO contributing 18 percent of the overall budget, which for 2024-25 was US$6.8 billion. Trump has argued that these global initiatives have extracted more pound of flesh from the US than others, particularly castigating WHO for overtly siding with China on global health matters. These moves by Trump could cripple WHO’s capability for intervention in case of a pandemic like the Coronavirus while poorer nations would be forced to fend for themselves in such an existential crisis.The next in the line for his targeted attack could be NATO, which too has been criticised by Trump for too much financial demand it puts on the US for Europe’s security and protection. In 2024, the US provided the largest share of NATO’s funding, at 15.9 percent, approximately US$567 million. If the US withdraws funding to NATO, it could immediately dent the security of Ukraine in its war with Russia. Ukraine is a non-NATO nation yet has received huge arms support from NATO nations since the war began in February 2021. The US has provided about US$175 billion in funding for Ukraine to purchase arms from NATO nations for its war with Russia. Trump has repeatedly stated in his poll campaign that he would end the Russia-Ukraine conflict in a day, and his plan seems to be withdrawing funding to Ukraine’s war effort and announcing that Ukraine shall not be part of NATO, a key bone of contention for Russia to inflict the war on Kyiv in “self-defense.” If Trump indeed goes ahead and pulls out of NATO funding, Volodymyr Zelensky would be the loser, and Vladimir Putin would have reasons to rejoice. However, this is a political tightrope that Trump should be willing to walk, as the public sentiment among Americans is more sympathetic towards Ukraine than Russia. Trump’s presidency impact is already visible in West Asia, where the warring Israel and Hamas in Gaza Strip have struck a ceasefire accord just hours before the transition in the US Administration. Trump has already claimed full credit for this halt in the bloody hostilities between Israelis and Palestinians. Yet, Trump is likely to favour Israel more in this conflict and has previously expressed full support for the Jews’ right to defend themselves post the October 7 attacks of 2023 by Hamas terrorists. Trump has time and again said that he would dismantle the anti-Jewish elements from US educational institutions and administration, and this doesn’t bode well for those faux supporters of Hamas terrorism and the Wokes inside the US. In the case of China, Trump is expected to pursue a hard line and there are several anti-China hawks among his supporters and administration. There are already talks of tariffs coming China’s way, and an External Revenue Service has been announced to leverage imports to find revenue for the US administration. Already Canada and Mexico are facing the brunt, with several sneaky remarks from Trump of integrating these neighbours as US territory. The trade war with China is expected to see a rise in the days to come, as so would the hate-hate relations over the Indo-Pacific region, particularly Chinese President Xi Jinping’s obsession with annexing Taiwan. In this regard, the first meeting of Quad Foreign Ministers a day after Trump took office in Washington DC is an indicator and the sentiments expressed in that meeting only buttressed that sentiment. India on the other hand would enjoy a smooth relationship post the administrative transition in the US, with some minor pinpricks such as import tariffs for Indian goods and H1-B visas for its talent pool to find employment in the high-paying market in the US. But the two nations security and defence relations are looking northward. India is as important to the US as the US is to India. Both nations can’t afford to lose sight of a common enemy in China. As they say, an enemy’s enemy is a friend. And this is truer in geopolitics today than ever. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s friendship with Trump will be a huge positive. Remember the ‘Ab ki Baar, Trump Sarkar’ at Houston in Texas in September 2019, and it will bring a positive outcome for India and the US. India and the US are partners in defending the freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, and their bilateral naval exercise, Malabar, has been elevated into a Quad nations’ maritime best practices platform to achieve interoperability among their navies. The direction of their military cooperation is only expected to expand in the next four years, even as the two nations pursue joint development and production of military wares in India through agreements between their military research and development agencies apart from public and private arms companies. India specifically enjoys bipartisan support in the US Congress, with Republicans and Democrats overwhelmingly supporting greater ties, calling New Delhi a natural partner of Washington DC. US Congress

Without Enmity, Let’s Work for Welfare of All

Hindus Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

466

Without Enmity, Let’s Work for Welfare of All

Taking inspiration from Bhagwan Ram, let’s pursue path of harmony, unity, progress and peace; reconstruction of Bharat and entire world. Dr Mohan Bhagwat The history of our Bharat is one of continuous struggle against invaders for around last one and a half thousand years. The aim of early invasions was to plunder and sometimes (like Alexander’s invasion) was for colonisation. But, attacks from West in the name of Islam only brought complete destruction and alienation of the society. To demoralise the nation, society, it was necessary to destroy their religious places, hence foreign invaders destroyed temples in India. They did this not once but multiple times. Their aim was to demoralise Bharatiya society so that they could rule over Bharat unhindered with a weakened society. The demolition of Shri Ram temple in Ayodhya was also done with same intention and for same purpose. This policy of invaders was not limited to just Ayodhya or any one temple, but was a war strategy for the entire world. Indian rulers never attacked anyone, but invaders of the world have done such misdeeds by being aggressive for expansion of their kingdom. But in Bharat, it did not have the desired results, not at least as per their expectations. On the contrary, in Bharat, the faith, commitment and morale of the society never diminished, the society did not bow down, their struggle of resistance continued. Therefore, repeated attempts were made to take control of Shri Ram’s birthplace and build a temple there. There were many wars, struggles and sacrifices for him. And, the issue of Ram Janmabhoomi ingrained in the minds of Hindus. In 1857, when war plans started being made against the foreign i.e. British rule, Hindus and Muslims together expressed their readiness to fight against them and then there was a mutual exchange of ideas between them. And, at that time, a situation evolved where there would be a reconciliation on issue of banning cow slaughter and liberation of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi . Bahadur Shah Zafar also guaranteed a ban on cow slaughter. As a result, entire society fought together. Bharatiya people showed bravery in that war but unfortunately this war of Independence failed. Then, Bharat did not get independence, British rule remained uninterrupted, but the struggle for Ram Temple did not stop. According to British policy of “Divide and Rule” towards Hindu-Muslims which was already in practice, gained even more prominence after 1857. To break the unity, British hanged the heroes of the struggle in Ayodhya and question of liberation of Ram Janmabhoomi remained unresolved. The struggle for Ram temple continued. After Independence in 1947, when Somnath temple was unanimously renovated, the discussion about such temples started. Similar consensus could have been considered regarding liberation of Ram Janmabhoomi, but the direction of politics changed. The selfish forms of politics such as discrimination and appeasement became prevalent and hence the question remained as it is. On this issue, governments did not even consider the wishes and sentiments of Hindu society. On the contrary, they tried to destroy initiative taken by the society. The legal battle related to this, which had been going on since pre-independence, continuously carried on. The mass movement for the liberation of Ram Janmabhoomi began in the 1980s and continued for thirty years. In 1949, the Murty of Bhagwan Shri Ramchandra appeared at the Ram Janmabhoomi. In 1986, the mandir was unlocked as per court order. In the coming period, the continuous struggle of Hindu society continued through many campaigns and kar seva. In 2010, a clear judgement of Allahabad High Court clearly came before the society. The efforts had to be sustained for final resolution of the issue at the earliest. On November 9, 2019, after 134 years of legal struggle, the Supreme Court gave a balanced decision after examining the truth and facts. The feelings and facts of both parties were also considered in this decision. This decision has been given after hearing the arguments of all parties in the court. According to this decision, a board of trustees was constituted for constructing the temple. Bhoomi pujan of the temple took place on August 5, 2020 and now, Paush Shukla Dwadashi Yugabd 5125, accordingly on January 22, 2024, installation and Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Murty of Shri Ramlala has been organised. From Dharmic point of view, Shri Ram is the most worshipped deity of majority society and the life of Shri Ramchandra is still accepted as an ideal code of conduct by entire society. Hence, now the conflict that has arisen as for and against over the dispute should be ended. The bitterness that has arisen in the meantime should also end. Enlightened people of the society must see that the dispute ends completely. Ayodhya means a city ‘where there is no war ‘, ‘a place free from conflict’. On this occasion, in the entire country, reconstruction of Ayodhya in our mind is the need of the hour and also the duty of all of us. The occasion of construction of Shri Ram mandir in Ayodhya marks reawakening of national pride. This also signifies acceptance of the vision of life behind the character of Shri Ram by modern Bharatiya society. Lord Shri Ram is to be worshiped in the temple with rituals of ‘Patram, Pushpam, Phalam, Toyam’ (leaves, flowers, fruits and water) and at the same time, by establishing image of Shri Ram in our minds, in the light of the same inculcating ideal conduct, we have to worship Shri Ram. As “Shivo Bhootva Shivam Bhajet, Ramo Bhootva Ramam Bhajet” (to worship Shiva, Be Shiva, to worship Ram, be Ram) is called true worship. If we consider from this point of view, then according to the social nature of Bharatiya culture, we need to imbibe “Matravat Pardareshu , Pardravyeshu Loshtvat. Atmavat sarvabhuteshu , yah pasyati sah panditah” (He is a wise man who sees the wives of others as his mother, the wealth of others like clod of earth and all beings as his own

Security Terrorism

432

Islamist Jihad, Threat to Humanity

Bloody attack on Charlie Hebdo a turning point in Islamist terror; Forced conversions, Muslim economic dominance, socio-cultural shifts imminent with open democratic spaces, conversations to shrink.

Washington Post’s Propaganda, Prejudice, Prevarication

Disinformation Misinformation

559

Washington Post’s Propaganda, Prejudice, Prevarication

Wild allegations that Bharat masterminded killings in Pakistan or sought to destabilize Muizzu regime in Maldives is part of WaPo’s agenda driven falsehoods. Why is The Washington Post turning hostile towards Bharat? Has the editorial policy of The Washington Post biased and agenda driven? Who’s behind this framing against Bharat and its people? These are questions for which the Post may not have any plausible explanation even to its own readers. In recent days, two such write ups that kicked up big controversy in Bharat relate to alleged killings done by Bharat in Pakistan and purported plot to destabilize Maldivian government headed by President Muizzu. On December 31, 2024, WaPo published, “In India’s shadow war with Pakistan, a campaign of covert killings,” written by Gerry Shih. It is a glaring example of the paper’s disturbing record of bias and agenda-driven journalism. Promptly, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India responded quoting Hillary Clinton, the former US Secretary of State, as saying, “You can’t keep snakes in your backyard and expect them only to bite your neighbours,” as a warning to Pakistan about terrorist organizations. A day earlier, Gerry Shih and Siddharth Roy wrote, “A plot in paradise and India’s struggle for influence in Asia” to allege that there was a serious plot to destabilize a government led by President Muizzu. The Washington Post went ahead with its own agenda driven write up though former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed, leader of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party debunked the write up. He stated that India has always supported democracy in the Maldives and will never engage in such acts. Both the writer ups were nothing more than an attempt to make a sensational yearend with biased and heavily skewed narrative that undermines India’s legitimate national security concerns while conveniently ignoring political standing, mutual interests and Pakistan’s long-standing sponsorship of cross-border terrorism. This kind of coverage necessitates a critical, incisive and unapologetic reaction since it not only misinforms global audiences but also raises disturbing issues about The Washington Post’s editorial biases and the agenda underlying its ongoing anti-India stance. WaPo’s Double Standards and Troubling History This is the same newspaper that frequently criticized countries like India who have made serious moves protect her sovereignty from unfriendly neighbours. While The Washington Post had the zeal to spread false narratives, it conveniently failed to report on issues back home in United States’ or its partners’ covert activities and extrajudicial actions. For example, why was The Washington Post silent on CIA’s drone strikes in Pakistan’s tribal regions that killed scores of civilians? Where is the serious investigation of US role in destabilizing entire regions via proxy wars and targeted assassinations? The selective anger is obvious. The Washington Post’s history is rife with paradoxes and instances of questionable journalism. Eugene Meyer, a billionaire and influential Republican, purchased the insolvent Post in 1933, promising the public that it was politically independent. Meyer’s hostility to Roosevelt’s New Deal resulted in biased editorials and even pseudonymously authored news pieces that mirrored his ideological leanings. His wife, Agnes Ernst Meyer, contributed socialist ideas to the Post’s pages, spotlighting people such as John Dewey and Saul Alinsky, demonstrating the publication’s contrasting influences. Meyer further shaped the paper’s ideological stance in1940s by using his political and family ties, such as bringing in his son-in-law Phil Graham as publisher. The Post’s political stance was tainted for decades by the ties with Georgetown elites and well-known political figures like the Kennedys. In the twenty-first century, the paper’s coverage of Iraq War was blatantly erroneous with over 140 front-page articles endorsing the invasion by Bush administration while censoring criticism from within. Its present coverage follows this pattern of selective reporting and ideological scheming which includes publicly criticizing India while neglecting more significant structural problems in other spheres. Baseless Allegations and Flimsy Evidence There is serious lack of reliable evidence to support the article’s core argument stating that a string of assassinations in Pakistan had been planned by India’s intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). The article makes extensive use of Pakistani officials, which is a notoriously untrustworthy source considering the country’s history of creating stories to divert attention away from its own shortcomings. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been the mastermind behind cross-border terrorism for decades, funding organizations like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) that have caused chaos in India and beyond. Pakistan has been regularly accused by the international community of harbouring and funding terrorists, particularly by Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and United Nations. However, the story in The Washington Post ignores this fact and instead concentrates on unsupported allegations against India. The article’s reliance on “Western officials” to support its assertions is absurd considering that these sources provide no hard evidence. The reported “evidence” consists of ambiguous allusions to WhatsApp messages and purported confessions that were taken under dubious conditions. Such little evidence would not be sufficient to support a real journalistic investigation, much less stand up in any court of law. Ignoring the Root Cause: Pakistan’s State-Sponsored Terrorism Pakistan’s unrelenting financing of terrorism is a major issue that must be addressed before any conversation regarding clandestine activities in South Asia can be considered complete. Pakistan has used terror as an instrument of state policy since it came into being. Numerous acts of terror against India, be it the 1947 Kabali raid, 2001 Parliament Attack, 2008 Mumbai attacks, 2016 Uri attack and 2019 Pulwama bombing, clearly bear Pakistan’s fingerprints. Beyond India, Pakistan is a global hub for terrorism, as evidenced by its backing for Taliban’s comeback in Afghanistan and its role in providing sanctuary to Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad. The Washington Post piece, however, attempts to minimize this uncomfortable reality by portraying Pakistan as a helpless victim rather than an offender. This must be taken into consideration when evaluating India’s purported actions as detailed in the article. India has a policy of “zero tolerance against terrorism” given that terror activities led to loss of thousands of its

Alarming Rise of Asymmetrical Terrorism in the West

Security Terrorism

379

Alarming Rise of Asymmetrical Terrorism in the West

On New Year’s Day, a devastating attack shattered celebrations in the French Quarter of New Orleans, claiming 15 lives and injuring 35 others. The assailant, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen and former U.S. Army member, executed a vehicle-ramming attack that bore the chilling hallmarks of Islamic State (IS)-inspired tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs). This attack, coupled with the discovery of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and the perpetrator’s use of full body armour, exemplifies the alarming trend of asymmetrical terrorism gripping the West.

Amalgamation of Spirituality, Faith, Culture, Unity

Hindus

460

Maha Kumbh: Amalgamation of Spirituality, Faith, Culture, Unity

Kumbh Mela derives its name from ancient Sanskrit language. In Sanskrit, mela means fair while Kumbh signifies a pitcher with nectar of immortality. Kumbh Mela is the largest and most significant recurring Hindu pilgrimage event in Bharat. During Kumbh, people from world over converge at holy rivers for a sacred bath to atone for their sins and attain liberation or moksha from all worldly attachments. Kumbh Mela are held at Haridwar in northern hill state of Uttarakhand where the holiest of river Ganges flows from mighty Himalayan ranges; Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh which sees coming together of Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati; Nasik in Maharashtra through which river Godavari flows and Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh that hosts Shipra river. These locations alternate every twelve years for holding the Kumbh melas. Maha Kumbh denotes largest Hindu spiritual gathering globally and perfectly reflects a healthy mix of community, tradition and commitment. In 2025, Maha Kumbh will take place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during January 14 – February 26. It’s billed as a breathtaking event that will bring tens of millions people from all over world in their pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. One estimate put the gathering at 400 million people that equal almost the entire European Union’s 27-member countries Kumbh Mela transcends religious barriers, considering its historical and cultural significance, representing universal human desire for peace, purification, and unification.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)

614

Trouble with ‘The Economist’

Write-up on RSS is steeped in distortions, prejudices, agenda driven narrative push rather than nuanced analysis that stands scrutiny. On December 19, 2024, as festive season approached, The Economist released its holiday double issue, featuring an unnamed article on Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The publication, owned by immensely wealthy Agnelli and Rothschild families, traces its origins to 1843, when it was founded to advocate for repeal of import tariffs. Yet, in its long history, The Economist has strayed little from its original mission of pushing selective agendas cloaked in garb of intellectual rigour. Over the years, it has subtly perfected the art of propaganda, blending curated narratives with psychological imprinting to advance the interests of its elite patrons. This Christmas edition is no exception. Beneath the veneer of incisive commentary lies a carefully orchestrated exercise in bias—shaping perceptions to align with the ruling class worldview that The Economist so loyally upholds. Whether degrading communities or offering justifications for wars, the magazine has long operated as a conduit for dangerous and radical global agendas. In this latest offering, the publication’s signature word crafting meets its predictable penchant for soft-pedaling propaganda, leaving readers with a polished but shallow narrative that serves its masters across oceans, rather than the truth it claims to champion. In its article titled “Inside the RSS: The World’s Most Powerful Group,” The Economist employs its arsenal of rhetoric to perpetuate a troubling narrative against what it perceives as a significant ideological opposition to its wealthy western ruling elite. The elite, seemingly vested in a global order conducive to its own interests, appears to view Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a formidable challenge. The article alleges that RSS is a paramilitary organization culpable for persecution of India’s post-partition minorities —a claim that rests on foundation of conjecture rather than tangible evidence. In reality, Bharat boasts a thriving minority landscape, some of the world’s most robust legal protections and welfare schemes for minorities, unparalleled in their scope and inclusivity. At a time when Western corporations and elite amass fortunes from wars that devastate nations across the globe, Bharat’s ethos has consistently championed inclusivity, cultural oneness and wellness. The worldview embodied by the RSS—an organization that represents the world’s largest voluntary movement—is deeply rooted in this ancient Indian philosophy. Far from the aggression suggested by The Economist, the RSS reflects a commitment to harmony and resilience, offering a counterpoint to exploitative frameworks perpetuated by those who profit from division and conflict. By choosing to distort rather than understand this ethos, The Economist exhibits its own inability—or unwillingness—to engage with perspectives that challenge the interests of its benefactors. More so, in relentless pursuit of narrative control, The Economist once again attempts to link Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi, to the RSS, describing him as an “ex-member” of the organization. This is a jaded agenda-based narrative that has had exposed RSS rivals. This very fixation not only underscores the publication’s penchant for propaganda but reveals a troubling reliance on conspiracy theories when they align with its agenda. Interestingly, The Economist spares no effort in crafting curated narratives about others while maintaining a conspicuous silence on controversies closer to its own sphere of influence. The Rothschilds, for instance—a family whose immense wealth and influence have been the subject of countless theories, from the Kennedy assassination to the Islamic State—remain untouched by the magazine’s purported investigative zeal. Similarly, the rumoured role of US government in assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. is conspicuously absent from its pages, despite widespread historic scrutiny. This selective focus speaks volumes about the publication’s biases and priorities. For those who can discern fact from fiction, The Economist’s approach serves as a reminder to distinguish credible media from outlets that prioritize agenda driven narratives over professional reportage. By choosing to amplify baseless charges against the RSS while ignoring deeper, systemic issues tied to its elite patrons, The Economist exposes its own limitations as a serious journalistic institution – which it tries to project itself. Ironically, The Economist expects its readers to believe that the RSS draws inspiration from Hitler’s Nazi Germany—a claim that is as baseless as it is sensational. The narrative point that lost its shelf life in last couple of decades, undoubtedly was reborn in champagne circles and elite echo chambers and it fails to hold up against the reality experienced by millions across India. From the youngest child to the eldest member of society, anyone who has encountered RSS firsthand can unequivocally attest to its true source of inspiration: the sacred Vedas, Upanishads and Sanatan Dharmic philosophy and outlook to Hindu way of life. Far from the twisted historical parallels The Economist seeks to draw, RSS is deeply rooted in timeless principles of Indian philosophy, centered on harmony, inclusivity, and selfless service. Such erroneous narratives find little resonance with the Indian population, who recognize them for what they are—attempts to vilify through misinformation. Instead, they gain traction in controlled settings where carefully curated echo chambers are created, often with backing of media outfits like The Economist. By perpetuating these flawed depictions, the magazine reveals not just its bias, but also its disconnect from ethos of a nation it claims to critique. In its relentless campaign against Bharat’s leadership, The Economist perpetuates baseless accusation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi bears responsibility for unfortunate Gujarat riots of 2002. This charge, however, crumbles under scrutiny, exposing not only its absurdity but also the Hinduphobic bias that underpins such narratives. What The Economist conveniently omits—and what must be highlighted—is the inhumane and brutal burning alive of 59 Hindu kar sevaks (volunteers) aboard Sabarmati Express at Godhra. This act of terror, meticulously planned and coordinated by Islamist extremists, sparked the violence that followed. Among those convicted for orchestrating this atrocity were Maulvi Umarji, Farooq Bhana and Imran Sheru—a stark reminder of premeditated nature of the attack. Yet, this foundational context finds no mention in The Economist’s coverage, which prefers to portray Hindus as aggressors while absolving the instigators of their

Meditation, Sure Shot Way to Global Harmony

Education Hindus

565

Meditation, Sure Shot Way to Global Harmony

Dr. Aniruddh Subhedar As part of Ashtang Yoga, meditation complements other forms to deliver sustainable universal health and wellbeing of humanity. United Nations unanimously declared December 21 as World Meditation Day. The resolution, introduced by Liechtenstein, was co-sponsored by Bharat among other nations like Bulgaria, Burundi, Dominican Republic, Iceland, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Mongolia, Portugal, Slovenia, etc. In his post on X (formerly Twitter), India’s Permanent Representative to United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish stated, “India had taken the lead in declaration of 21 June, which marks Summer Solstice, as International Day of Yoga by the UN in 2014. In a decade, it has become a global movement which has led to common people across the globe practising yoga and making it part of their daily lives.” Indeed, as UN declaration acknowledged “the link between yoga and meditation as complementary approaches to health and well-being”. Meditation, indeed, has its roots in the ancient Indian philosophy of Yoga. The writer of Yoga-Sutras– one of the most authoritative ancient texts on Yoga- Pantanjali introduced us to Ashtang Yoga (eight limbs of Yoga) with dhyana (meditation) as its seventh step. In Bharatiya tradition the Winter Solstice or “Uttarayan” is one of the most auspicious times of the year. As recounted in the Mahabharata, the great Bhishma chose to leave his body on this very day. Declaring the Winter Solstice as World Meditation Day is therefore deeply symbolic and fitting. What is dhyana? Sanskrit word dhyana comes from the root word ‘dhi’ which means to contemplate or ponder over. Dhyana can be understood as focused attention. Its roots can be traced to the concept of the four types of speech found in the Upanishads—Vaikhari, Madhyama, Pashyanti, and Para. The latter two are not outward expressions of speech but inner, soulful processes. In the Sankhya philosophy (one of the six Vaidik schools), Dhyana is described as: “ध्यानं निर्विशयं मन‌:”- Dhyana is the state where the mind is free from troublesome desires and thoughts. Patanjali defines it as: “तत्र प्रत्यैकतानता ध्यानं”- constant and unbroken contemplation. The centrality of Dhyana in Bharatiya spirituality is evident from its presence in even non-Vedic traditions like Jainism and Buddhism. It is no coincidence that sculptures and paintings of ancient masters and sages from these traditions commonly depict them in the Dhyana Mudra—the posture of meditation. Buddhist meditational practices like Shamatha and Vipashyana and Jain practices like Preksha are still prevalent today. From India, the practice of Dhyana spread to China as “Chán” and later to Japan as “Zen.” While the pronunciation evolved, the essence remained unchanged. Modern Science and Dhyana: Dhyana exists at the intersection of science and spirituality. With the growing global influence of Yoga, modern science has turned its attention to meditation. Notable studies such as “Mindfulness Meditation and Brain Structure” (Hölzel et al., 2011) and “Effects of Meditation on Stress” (Creswell et al., 2014) demonstrate that meditation has a clear and measurable positive impact on mental and physical well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety have become inseparable from modern lifestyles, Yoga and Dhyana are receiving rightful global recognition. World Health Organisation (WHO), in its self-help tools for anxiety management, encourages individuals to: “develop the habit of mindfulness meditation, even if it’s just a few minutes per day.” Practices like meditation offer a profound tool to relieve individuals from stress, enabling a calmer and more balanced state of mind. By cultivating mindfulness and focused attention, meditation reduces anxiety, improves emotional regulation, and creates compassion—towards oneself and others. As more individuals embrace these practices, the ripple effect can create a world where people are less reactive, more understanding, and empathetic. This shared mental peace can transcend boundaries, helping build a harmonious global family united by values of inner well-being, mutual respect, and collective happiness. Meditation over Military Might: The human desire to conquer the world is as old as civilization itself. Bharat, being one of the oldest civilizations, has witnessed its share of conquerors and dictators. Yet, Bharat was among the few that transcended this mirage. It is no coincidence that every ancient tradition of Bharat—Vaidik, Buddhist, or Jain—regardless of their internal differences, emphasized Dhyana. In fact, in Jainism and Buddhism, meditation occupies an even more central position. Moreover, the founders of these traditions, like Mahavir and Gautama Buddha, hailed from the Kshatriya (warrior) class. Having understood the futility of worldly conquest, they turned inward and realized that true victory lies in mastering the self—conquering one’s Indriyas (senses and desires). Such a person is called Jitendriya, and only the truly brave (Mahavir) can achieve it. Gautama Buddha, born in the Shakya tribe, mastered the science of meditation and spread it across the world. He was fittingly called Shakya-Simha—the Lion of the Shakyas. Bharat’s outlook toward the external world has always been shaped by its profound understanding of the human mind and soul. The Indian adage “Yat Pinde Tat Brahmande” (As is the body, so is the Universe) underscores this philosophy, encouraging introspection as a path to understanding the greater cosmos. Bharat’s traditions endured because its people were already pursuing the ultimate victory—mastery over their own senses (Indriyas) Meditation and Yoga, deeply rooted in India’s ancient traditions, have the potential to serve as powerful instruments of soft power on the global stage. Unlike hard power, which relies on military or economic might, soft power influences through culture, philosophy, and values. The universal appeal of Yoga and meditation as tools for holistic well-being resonates with people across nations, cultures, and ideologies. India’s leadership in initiatives like the International Day of Yoga and now World Meditation Day showcases its ability to offer solutions to modern challenges. These practices not only promote physical and mental health but also inspire inner peace, empathy, and collective mindfulness—values the world deeply needs. By promoting meditation and Yoga, India positions itself as a cultural and spiritual guide, strengthening its image as a nation that leads through wisdom, healing, and universal well-being. A Global Alternative This is not to suggest that the world will suddenly become a utopia

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