Let us do DHARMA HIMSA" !

 The Pragmatic Application of Dharma: When Resistance Becomes Necessary

In a world demanding constant engagement and responsibility, the concept of dharma himsa emerges as a crucial principle. It dictates that we must actively condemn and confront adharmic activities – violence, hatred, misinformation campaigns, the erosion of vulnerable individuals' privacy and dignity, sedition, and encroachment against the state. This is, in essence, a war against adharma, a battle to eradicate it at its very root.

This stance naturally begs the question: what of ahimsa, the principle of non-violence so prominently featured in scriptures and popularized by figures like Mahatma Gandhi? Ahimsa, it is argued, is best suited for those leading secluded lives, detached from the complexities and dependencies of society. For individuals immersed in the world, relying on societal structures for sustenance and security, a more nuanced approach is required.

Unconditional and absolute ahimsa, particularly when imposed as a mandatory principle, can weaken a nation. What is needed is strength, the capacity to resist evil. While ahimsa might be attainable for a select few, for the average citizen, learning to resist adharma is paramount. Specifically, there are three critical situations where prioritizing resistance over non-violence becomes essential.

First, when the nation is imperiled. At such times, passive adherence to ahimsa is insufficient. Instead, decisive action is required, fueled by shakti, the divine energy embodied by Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of demons. This energy is vital to protecting the country and its sovereignty.

Second, when dharma itself is under attack. We cannot remain silent in the face of forces that threaten our values and principles. There can be no compromise with adharma, no friendship with forces that seek to undermine righteousness. Adharma must be vanquished in all its forms.

Third, when the honor of our daughters and sisters is threatened. In such instances, the notion of ahimsa becomes untenable. Protecting the dignity and safety of women demands active resistance and defense.

Therefore, the practice of ahimsa must be conditional, adapted to specific circumstances. For the common person, the primary lesson is to resist evil. This resistance necessitates shakti, a lesson powerfully conveyed through Shakti Puja. It is imperative to remember that a misguided adherence to absolute ahimsa has historically weakened India. The ability to defend our nation, our dharma, and the honor of our women is paramount. It is by awakening the spirit of Mahishasuramardini within ourselves that we can truly strengthen our country and our society. Ultimately, it is through the embodiment of this powerful and righteous energy that we can hope to build a more just and secure future.