This fragment of a famous shloka says that wealth enables dharma, which is the begetter of happiness. I would add that wealth also brings security, and security gives peace. Moreover, wealth sustains culture and fulfils our aesthetic sense.
Another famous shloka says:
साहित्यसङ्गीतकलाविहीनः
साक्षात्पशुः पुच्छविषाणहीनः।
तृणं न खादन्नपि जीवमानः
तद्भागधेयं परमं पशूनाम्॥
The famous shloka translates as follows: A person devoid of literature, music and the arts is no better than an animal without a tail or horns. That he lives without having to eat grass is indeed the great good fortune of other animals. The critical and hidden dimension of this saying is that literature, music and the arts, which transform a bare biological being into a human being, all depend on wealth. Despite this, too many literary, cultural and artistic figures celebrate penury and renunciation, contrary to what they themselves aspire to and opposed to the national interest. This is not merely ignorance; it is deceitful conduct.
The very Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) repeatedly remind us that economic production is the belly of the body politic, which sustains its muscles, meaning military power. Yet, we nurture bad bacteria in the form of ideas that weaken the gut and eat into the muscles of the country.
Only through our ceaseless endeavour to optimise capacities, efficiency and cost-effectiveness can we stand our ground in the world. All those with a sense of responsibility and concern must focus on the processes that strengthen our position against others, particularly when many state and non-state actors are hell-bent on having their own way in total disregard for moral norms and fairness.
The critical fact is that national wealth is the principal determinant not only of our national well-being but also of our very existence. We must always remember that we are no longer facing a colossal dragon, but a dragonoid.
Wishing you all a very auspicious Dhanteras. Let its spirit guide your words and deeds.
Niraj Kumar Jha
