Amit Shah Lauds Adi Shankaracharya's Legacy in Ahmedabad Event
Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a powerful speech in Ahmedabad on Thursday. He highlighted the monumental contributions of Adi Shankaracharya to Indian civilization. Shah spoke at the launch of a Gujarati translation of Shankaracharya's complete works.
Shankaracharya as the Architect of Indian Identity
Amit Shah stated that the 8th-century scholar played a crucial role in shaping India's national identity. "Adi Shankaracharya was instrumental in establishing the Indian identity," Shah declared. The Home Minister emphasized that the saint ensured the banner of Sanatan Dharma flew high across the entire country.
Shah described Shankaracharya's incredible journey. "He travelled extensively across the country on foot," Shah noted. The minister likened him to a "walking university" who spread knowledge wherever he went.
Enduring Contributions to Dharma and Knowledge
The Union Minister detailed Shankaracharya's specific achievements:
- He established four major monasteries in the four cardinal directions of India.
- He created permanent centers of knowledge and spiritual learning.
- He systematically divided the Vedas among these monasteries for preservation.
- He provided a clear path for common people to understand Sanatan Dharma's core principles.
Shah explained that these monasteries transcended mere religious functions. They became vital institutions for safeguarding and propagating Vedic wisdom. "They did not merely become religious centres," Shah clarified.
Addressing Philosophical Challenges of His Time
Amit Shah highlighted the historical context of Shankaracharya's work. The 8th century saw the rise of various philosophical schools like Buddhism and Jainism. Kapalika and Tantric traditions also gained prominence during this period.
"Adi Shankaracharya addressed doubts that had arisen around Sanatan Dharma," Shah stated. The scholar-saint engaged with these competing philosophies directly. He provided logical answers to challenging questions about traditional Hindu thought.
Shah praised Shankaracharya's synthetic approach. "He not only gave ideas, but also offered India a synthesis of ideas," the Home Minister observed. Shankaracharya gave concrete form to abstract spiritual concepts. He mapped a practical pathway to liberation for spiritual seekers.
Gujarati Translation for Modern Relevance
The event marked the publication of Shankaracharya's complete works in Gujarati. The collection spans fifteen volumes. Amit Shah expressed strong confidence in this new edition.
"You will find solutions to all the questions that existed in society of that time in these texts," Shah told the audience. He believes the Gujarati translation will help youth from his home state engage with this philosophical treasure.
The Home Minister hopes the works will impact young lives and careers. "They will help youth from Gujarat delve into them and leave an impact on their lives and work," Shah predicted. He marveled at Shankaracharya's productivity within a short lifespan, calling his accomplishments extraordinary.
Amit Shah's address connected ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance. He positioned Adi Shankaracharya not just as a historical figure but as a continuing source of guidance for modern India.
