Prime Minister Narendra Modi today emphasised upon the need to acquaint the young generation with the knowledge contained in the Upanishads and the Vedas, saying that in today's age of texts and tweets, it is essential that the youth does not get distanced from the wisdom of the ancient scriptures.
Modi was speaking at the virtual inauguration of the 'Patrika Gate', a modern-day monument built in Jaipur which features the artistic heritage of the different regions of Rajasthan and is touted as a centre of attraction for both the locals and visitors to the state. The event also saw Modi releasing two books 'Samwad Upnishad' and 'Akshar Yatra', authored by Gulab Kothari, chairman of Patrika Group.
Patrika Gate has been built by the Patrika Group under Mission Anupam of Jaipur Development Authority. In his address at the event, Modi spoke about the importance of turning to the Upanishads and the Vedas for the knowledge that they contained, saying the ancient scriptures were timeless and had immense relevance for the present and the future. “The Upanishads and the Vedas are important not just for Indians but for the whole world,” he said.
“It is important that in the age of texts and tweets, the present generation does not get distanced from our heritage. There is nature as well as science in the Upanishads and the Vedas. An entire Veda is dedicated to the environment,” Modi said.
He said many scientists have been attracted to the ancient scriptures, and named Nicola Tesla as being one of them. “When Swami Vivekananda spoke about the Vedas and the Upanishads, Tesla was mesmerised by the description of the universe in the ancient scriptures. He said he would bring out this knowledge in a scientific format and said it would help solve the mysteries of the universe,” he said.
Modi said writers were like teachers and guides to the society, and books played an important role in the learning process of an individual, which does not get over with the completion of school education. He said people should build a corner in their homes where books are kept.
Turning to the media, he said while it has played an unprecedented role in COVID times by pointing out lacunae in the fight against the virus, it has also been criticised, adding that it is because of social media. “It is natural and essential to learn from criticism. That is why our democracy is so strong,” he said.
He also said that at a time when India has an important place in global fora and its voice is heard more attentively by the world, Indian media should also go global. He said India's newspapers and magazines should attain a global repute using the digital media.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said the Patrika Gate brings out the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, and it is in keeping with Jaipur having recently been recognised as a heritage city by UNESCO. Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra was also present on the occasion.
