Respect for diversity, pluralism part of national psyche, says VP Venkaiah Naidu

Hassan: Recalling both the principles of Jainism and the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, Vice-President, Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said recognising and respecting diversity and pluralism was a part of the country’s national psyche.

Noting that the concept went back to the message of non-violence spread by the 24 tirthanakaras of Jainism, which formed the theoretical basis of the country’s independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi, he said, “What can be more important for mankind than to co-exist peacefully on earth? If one adopts this principle of Mahaveera, development could be inclusive and sustainable and based on the principle, move ahead and let all others move ahead with you.”

Mr Naidu was at Shravanabelagola to take part in the Rajyabhishekakalyana of the first Jain tirthankara, Bhagawan Rishabhadeva during the ongoing Mahamastakabhisheka of the gigantic statue of Bahubali atop the Vindhyagiri Hill.

Describing the statue as an inspiration for millions of devotees and a timeless icon, the Vice-President said that it reminded people to enrich their lives by internalising the values of non-violence, renunciation and multiple facets of truth.

“It stands tall and reminds us of the heights human ingenuity and craftsmanship can reach,” he added.