Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Draws Parallel Between Operation Sindoor and Lord Shiva's Resolve
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a powerful address at the 32nd Mahashivratri celebrations held at the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore on Sunday. In his speech, he framed fearlessness as a spiritual strength essential for national security, rather than a mere product of brute force.
Operation Sindoor Reflects Rudra-Like Resolve
Singh specifically highlighted Operation Sindoor, describing it as reflecting a Rudra-like resolve of Lord Shiva. He used this example to emphasize a critical point: societies governed by fear cannot remain secure, and only a fearless populace can build a strong and resilient nation.
"Real security comes from inner confidence and national consciousness, not only from material capability," Singh stated, shifting the focus from purely military might to the psychological and spiritual foundations of defense.
Armed Forces Embody Shiva's Dual Nature
Invoking Lord Shiva as a symbol of both protection and destruction, Singh drew a direct parallel with the Indian armed forces. He described the military as an institution that blends patience and compassion with decisive and formidable strength.
He pointed to humanitarian assistance during crises as an expression of this protective aspect, while operations like Sindoor represent moments when firmness and decisive action become absolutely essential. The discipline and unwavering resolve of soldiers, he added, are deeply rooted in India's cultural foundations and draw inspiration from figures like Lord Shiva.
Spirituality as the Antidote to Materialism
The Defence Minister issued a caution about modern life, noting that an excessive fixation on material gain often erodes inner well-being and balance. He positioned spirituality as the vital counterforce that helps restore this equilibrium and unlock latent human potential.
This personal growth, he argued, naturally translates into greater service to society and the nation at large. Singh asserted that India's true strength lies in its cultural unity and spiritual ethos, which the Union government has actively sought to project on the global stage. He highlighted yoga as a priceless Indian offering now embraced worldwide in a renewed and modern form.
Bridging Culture and Science
Singh also addressed the perceived divide between culture and science, arguing that in India, they have long complemented each other. He cited landmark space missions like Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and Aditya-L1 as modern expressions of an ancient scientific spirit that has always been part of the nation's heritage.
Service to Humanity as Service to Shiva
Connecting spirituality with governance, Singh stated that service to humanity is tantamount to service to Lord Shiva. He linked this philosophical idea to the Centre's welfare initiatives over the past decade, spanning education, healthcare, and improved living standards.
Alongside these, he highlighted significant cultural and religious projects, including the development of the Ujjain Mahakal, Kashi Vishwanath, and Somnath corridors, as well as the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.
Event Highlights and Felicitations
Isha Foundation founder Sadhguru also addressed the massive gathering, describing Mahashivratri as a night to be at one's best. He warned that failing to act on one's inherent capacity inevitably leads to personal and collective decline.
The event witnessed an attendance of over two lakh people, including various political figures. In a notable segment, the Western Air Command, the Army's Southern Command, and the Western Naval Command were formally felicitated for their role in the success of Operation Sindoor, underscoring the event's connection to national defense and security.
