By Vasudha Ratawal
The advent of modernity and the outburst of technological innovations has made human lives more complex in diverse ways. We as humans have begun to consume more machines and technology than ever to make our lives easier, but are we really living easier lives than our ancestors? Or have we become more addicted to the pleasure which we acquire from our self-induced and unquestionable consumption of the materialist world? The purpose of human lives has evolved tremendously; although we have reached a pinnacle of success in science and technology but we have forgotten the fundamental purpose of life – being humanly connected with each other and following our duty. Despite of being constantly connected with each other, the connection and knowing with the self remains lost.
More than ever, it is now that the values of Vedantic philosophy and principles of Swadharma – the duty of the self towards the society needs to be recalled. Every individual in the society has a unique nature and calling which channels them towards their purpose. A purpose which is beyond the duality of pain and pleasure, the self and the other. Dismally, the true form of Swadharma cannot be fulfilled without learning and knowing thyself. A seeker of the self – their nature, their unique abilities and acceptance of their inner turmoil and peace can follow Swadharma in its purest form. As one cannot pour to another from an empty cup; one cannot help others without acceptance and recognizing the frailty of the self.