Message on the occasion of Gudhi Padwa (19th March)

Let us resolve to once again hoist the ‘Gudhi’ of Ram Rajya in Bharat (India) !

In Hindu culture, Gudhi Padwa does not merely mark the beginning of a New Year, it is a very auspicious day symbolising the victory of Dharma (Righteousness) over adharma (Unrighteousness).

When Prabhu Shriram returned to Ayodhya after completing 14 years in exile and destroying demonic forces, the devoted citizens of Ayodhya hoisted Gudhis outside their homes as symbols of joy and victory. That same celebration of victory and that same ideal Gudhi continues to inspire us today to establish Ram Rajya in the true sense. It is only in Ram Rajya that true happiness and Bliss can be experienced.

Ram Rajya means a kingdom where spiritual faith is reflected in righteous governance. Even in the present times, bringing about Ram Rajya in Bharat (India) that would have an ideal ruler, virtuous citizens, good governance, and all-round security is the true establishing of Dharma according to the significance of times.

The eligibility criteria for citizens to live in Ram Rajya is that they become seekers (those who perform regular spiritual practice or are devoted to God). Only when people in society become spiritually evolved and rooted in Dharma can an ideal Nation truly be established.

On the auspicious occasion of Gudhi Padwa, along with hoisting the Gudhi outside our homes, let us resolve to contribute towards Nation-building based on the principles of Ram Rajya, and perform spiritual practice. Let us commit ourselves to once again hoisting the Gudhi of Ram Rajya in Bharat !

– Sachchidananda Parabrahman (Dr) Athavale