Hare Krishna.

As India celebrates the seventy-fifth anniversary of its independence, what might be a Bhagavad Gita perspective on this historic milestone? Let us explore this through the lens of India’s self-realization.

Typically, the term self-realization refers to individuals—discovering who they truly are, the depth of their identity, and the meaning and purpose of their existence. However, what applies to individuals can also apply to larger collectives—nations that are made up of millions of individuals.

India’s independence struggle was not merely a political movement. From the 1880s onward, when the modern phase of the freedom struggle began, many of its leaders envisioned it as a spiritual struggle—an effort to reclaim and refine the soul of India. India’s distinctive contribution to the world has always been its spiritual wisdom and culture, which not only attracted political invaders but also spiritual seekers from across the globe.

Many spiritual leaders of that time believed that India’s ability to express its spirituality was being stifled under British rule. Thus, the movement for political freedom was also seen as part of a larger mission—to elevate human consciousness.

However, a tragic turn came at the time of independence: the nightmare of partition. Over a million people were displaced in an exodus of unprecedented scale. The horrors of partition led to a perception that religion was the root cause of such division and violence. And while religion did play a role, the solution chosen by many leaders turned out to be more damaging than the problem.

In the name of secularism and progress, India began disassociating itself from its spiritual and cultural roots, mistaking tradition for superstition. While India remained a multi-religious secular state, secularism came to mean rejection of its own traditional wisdom and culture. Adopting socialism, the nation not only stagnated materially but also became spiritually disoriented.

India eventually moved away from socialism—not out of spiritual awakening, but due to harsh economic realities. And yet, India’s spiritual heritage could not be silenced. While the government tried to remove religion from the public sphere, the people never truly did so from their hearts. Indian spirituality is not just about rituals—it’s a worldview, a way of living.

While India neglected its spiritual wealth, the world embraced it. Indian spiritual teachers traveled west and sparked profound movements. Books like American Veda describe how Indian wisdom influenced the American intellectual and cultural heartland—and from there, it began to return to India, renewed and respected.

Among the most influential texts has been the Bhagavad Gita, which gained increased recognition after independence. In recent decades, India has been both moving forward materially and turning inward spiritually.

The unique genius of the Bhagavad Gita is its ability to harmonize both: introspection and action. Arjuna, bewildered by the moral complexity of his situation, was empowered by Krishna to turn inward—to connect with the divine within (maam anusmara)—and also to turn outward—to act responsibly in the world.

That same inward connection and outward contribution is what India needs today. It is a formula for transformational progress—materially and spiritually. India has made significant strides in material development over the last few decades. At the same time, there is now a growing appreciation of India’s spiritual traditions. No longer embarrassed by controversial practices, Indians are beginning to rediscover the treasure of timeless wisdom and share it with the world.

The Bhagavad Gita has come to symbolize the best of India—offered by Indian leaders to global dignitaries as a gift of knowledge. India is becoming increasingly assertive on the world stage—not just as a political or economic power, but as a spiritual beacon.

To become truly self-realized, India must reconnect with its core identity and contribute to the world from that rootedness. India’s core is its spirituality—its inclusive, uplifting legacy that offers user-friendly pathways for individuals to evolve from wherever they are. The Gita’s message is: From your place, at your pace, access divine grace.

This inclusivity is not new. India has historically been a refuge for Jews fleeing persecution, for Christians during the Roman Empire’s crackdown, for Zoroastrians during Islamic conquests, and even for Islamic sects persecuted by other Islamic rulers. This inclusive fabric has its roots in the Gita’s vision of spiritual unity beyond superficial differences.

India’s true legacy is to help people connect with their deepest selves and contribute meaningfully to the world—not for ego gratification, but for global elevation. That is the spirit of Krishna’s call in the Gita: Tasmaat uttishtha—therefore, rise, O Arjuna!

Each Indian is called to rise, to realize their spiritual identity and live in service to something higher. That is what will enable India to fulfill the vision of the spiritual leaders who fought for freedom—not merely from political chains, but toward a rediscovery of India’s soul.

On this seventy-fifth anniversary of independence, let us not merely celebrate political freedom, but strive to manifest India’s spiritual potential—to become a Vishwa Guru, a guide to the world, offering light in times that seem increasingly dark.

Thank you.