Amit Shah Releases Adi Shankaracharya's Complete Works in Gujarati
Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the complete works of Adi Shankaracharya in Gujarati on Thursday. He described the ancient philosopher as a "walking university" who shaped India's spiritual identity.
Event at Tagore Hall in Ahmedabad
Shah released the 15-volume set at Tagore Hall in Ahmedabad. Gautam Patel edited the works. The Sastu Sahitya Mudranalay Trust published the volumes. This trust is led by Amit Shah himself.
The Home Minister delivered a speech in Hindi during the ceremony. He highlighted Shankaracharya's profound contributions to Indian thought and culture.
Shankaracharya's Enduring Legacy
"Shankaracharya did not merely present ideas," Shah stated. "He gave India its very composition. He provided knowledge and also shaped it. He offered the concept of moksha and showed the path to achieve it."
Shah emphasized that few individuals accomplish so much in a single lifetime. He noted Shankaracharya's extensive travels across the country on foot from a young age.
"In that era, Adi Shankar functioned as a 'walking university'," Shah remarked. "His journeys were not just physical. He established India's identity. He founded four maths in the four cardinal directions. He lit a lamp of knowledge, a gyandip, for future generations."
Spreading Sanatan Dharma
The Union Minister explained Shankaracharya's role in propagating Sanatan Dharma. "He waved the flag of Sanatan Dharma in all directions—north, south, east, and west," Shah said.
Shah elaborated on the purpose of the four monastic establishments. "These maths became more than religious centers," he observed. "They served as repositories for preserving and disseminating the Vedas and Upanishads."
According to Shah, Shankaracharya created an organizational structure. This ensured Sanatan Dharma remained relevant through challenging historical periods.
Addressing Philosophical Challenges
Shah pointed out that Shankaracharya's texts addressed all societal issues of his time. The philosopher confronted the rise of various schools like Buddhism and Jainism. He also engaged with traditions such as Kapalika and Tantra.
"Adi Shankar removed all doubts surrounding Sanatan Dharma," Shah asserted. "It is a monumental achievement. He provided logical answers to the prevailing questions and uncertainties of his era."
Pride in Publication and Future Impact
Shah expressed personal satisfaction with the publication. He is connected to the trust responsible for the work. "I am happy that an institution associated with me has published these volumes," he shared.
The Home Minister expressed confidence in the work's value for Gujarati youth. "This ocean of knowledge is now available for our young people to explore," Shah said. "I am sure it will positively influence both their personal lives and professional endeavors."
Distinguished Guests in Attendance
The event saw the presence of several notable figures. Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha R Jain attended the ceremony. Senior RSS leader Suresh Soni was also present among the audience.
The release marks a significant effort to make Shankaracharya's philosophical works accessible in the Gujarati language. It underscores the continuing relevance of his teachings in contemporary society.
