Maa: The protector of peace

In keeping with the concept of Vasudhaiva kutumbukam (the whole world being one family), a central idea of the Vedas, as turbulence and violent deaths rise across the globe, this festival season celebrating the Mother Goddess is a perfect occasion to pray for world peace and the happiness of all living beings, setting aside personal desires. Swati Sharma speaks to people from various walks of life on their views on this guiding principle of Indian philosophy.

A time for reflection and celebration

In difficult circumstances, praying together can bring hope and strength. It is believed that when we all work together for the same goal, the strength of our prayers grows. Everyone on the earth is linked in some manner. As a result, when one person suffers, everyone else suffers too. Festivals are times of celebration and reflection; they are good opportunities to look beyond our own personal goals and requirements. We can use this occasion to pray for everyone’s happiness and peace. Goddess Shakti, who represents power and energy in the Universe, can be seen as a symbol of strength and optimism. We pray that she blesses the world with peace and harmony, especially at this time when innocent people are dying. This is the least we can do for them; even this small gesture can have a big influence and alter the world.
— Capt. Monicaa Khanna, pilot

Focus on each other’s happiness

We as a generation thrive off of each other. One person’s happiness leads to a smile on another person’s face. Nothing gives people more positivity, happiness and light than looking at other people who are happy. Ideas of what different people consider right and wrong brings unhappiness, leading people into a downward spiral. Not just during this festive season, I think people should in general focus on making each other happy. Life is short. I pray for people to recognise that and spend a few minutes every day spreading joy.
— Priyanka Chigurupati, executive director, Granules Pharmaceuticals

Let’s focus on inner peace

In times of crises, we must help wherever we can, to the best of our abilities. Prime Minister Modi has always been a shining example of how to maintain global ties with grace, providing neighbouring countries and their leaders with the necessary assistance when needed. It’s also fantastic to see how the world relies on India in times of national emergency, which should make every Indian extremely proud,  we must always remain empathetic as well. This festive season, I want everyone to focus on peace and simple delights because they are the most valuable and priceless gifts we can give one another around the world.
— Anandita De, luxury lifestyle consultant and podcaster #Anafied

Shakti: A universal force

Human potential is a magnificent force, and we are capable of amazing transformation while remaining loyal to our basic selves. At the heart of this extraordinary gift is Shakti, the divine force that resides within each of us, guiding us towards our highest possibilities. Shakti unites us all through a universal consciousness that rejects all divisions, particularly those created by language, religion, country, or even chance of birth. Only through acts of service can we honour our history while also shaping our future, realising our full potential and strengthening the links of interconnection. Now is the time to take advantage of this opportunity.
— Mahima Poddar, founder, The Kindness Foundation

Give us courage & strength

We humans are all striving for peace in some way. The current state of the world is really concerning, and I feel that we should all pray to our Goddess this year to promote world peace and happiness. In addition to praying for our loved ones, we should also pray for those who have been affected by the current world situation. May the Almighty grant them strength, put an end to their worries, and restore peace as soon as possible.
— Shefali Jariwala, actress

Pray for social peace

Ya Devi Sarva Buteshu Shakthi Roopaena Samsthitha! Namastasya Namastasya
Namastasya Namo Namaha
Everlasting power in everything and everywhere! This Navaratri, invoke the Goddess for righteousness and peace. It’s important for us to also wish others well and for society’s peace, so that our ecosystem flourishes.
— Dr Beela, IAS, Principal Secretary, Energy, Government of Tamil Nadu

Embrace patience, & generosity

Descending into darkness is a rite of passage in the archives of human experience. It is during the fearful journey into chaos that we discover the strength and resilience we are capable of, And the empathy we must show to our immediate circle of family, friends and colleagues. The world is changing, truth is fading and histories are being rewritten. We must reach above and beyond ourselves to show kindness, patience and generosity.
— Anita Ratnam, Danseuse

Bring positive energy into the world

As we celebrate the diverse aspects of the feminine divine, may the natural resourcefulness of Lakshmi combine with the wisdom of Saraswathi and merge with the strength of Parvati to create an unbeatable positive energy field around the embattled earth. May the Shakti within us be used to create a peaceful world.
— With inputs from Apsara Reddy
— Uma Vangal, Film Professor and researcher