Context:
The Prime Minister of India paid tribute to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya on his 108th birth anniversary, who propounded the idea of Integral Humanism.
Integral Humanism: The Philosophy of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya
Overview:
- Integral Humanism is a philosophy introduced by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya in the early 1960s.
- It draws from India’s ancient traditions and culture, focusing on the unity and harmony between individuals, society, and the universe.
- The philosophy emphasizes a higher moral authority and the importance of a complete human development, which includes the body, mind, intelligence, and soul.
Critique of Western Ideologies:
- He opposed both Western capitalism and Marxist socialism, arguing that they focus primarily on physical and mental needs, neglecting spiritual development.
- He believed these ideologies are materialistic and can lead to conflicts, such as nationalism threatening world peace or exploitation resulting from democracy and capitalism.
- He asserted that India should not blindly adopt these Western ideas but should instead embrace its own rich cultural heritage.
Integral humanism is built on three main principles:
- Primacy of the Whole: Emphasizes the importance of viewing life as an integrated whole rather than in separate parts.
- Supremacy of Dharma: Advocates that moral principles should guide society.
- Autonomy of Society: Supports the idea that society should have the freedom to govern itself.
According to Upadhyaya, humans have four essential needs:
- Kama: Desires and satisfaction.
- Artha: Wealth and resources.
- Dharma: Moral duties and responsibilities.
- Moksha: Spiritual liberation.
Cultural Concepts and Legacy:
- He emphasized that every nation has its own central cultural ideas (Riti) and unique societal characteristics (Virat).
- He believed that individuals have specific roles and responsibilities and that the essence of integral humanism lies in integrating these diverse aspects of life.
- His philosophy remains relevant today, providing insights into contemporary political challenges and advocating for a holistic approach to human development rooted in traditional Indian knowledge.
About Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya
- He is regarded as one of India’s most influential political thinkers.
- Born on September 25, 1916, in the village of Nagla Chandraban in mathura district (U.P).
- Studied at Sanatan Dharma College, Kanpur, where he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
- Qualified as a teacher but chose to work full-time with the RSS starting in 1942.
- Founded and edited several publications, including “Rashtra Dharma,” “Panchajanya,” and “Swadesh.”
- Became the first General Secretary of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh’s U.P. branch in 1951 and later served as All India General Secretary.
- Advocated for a decentralized government and a self-reliant economy centered around villages.
- Supported modern technology while emphasizing its adaptation to Indian contexts.
- He focused on practical issues and aimed to uplift the masses, offering a comprehensive Indian alternative to existing ideologies.