Page 30 - NIS English 01-15 March 2022

Nation Statue of Equality

THE 'STATUE OF EQUALITY' GIVES

A MESSAGE OF EQUALITY

The 216-foot-high "Statue of Equality" in Hyderabad was dedicated to the nation on
February 5 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in memory of the 11th-century Bhakti saint
Ramanujacharya. Ramanujacharya was a saint who introduced the country to the true
concept of social reform and worked for the oppressed and downtrodden. Even though
Ramanujacharya is no longer with us, his thoughts and this massive statue of him in the
form of the "Statue of Equality" continue to send a message of equality. With this message,
the country is today laying a solid foundation for its new future with the mantra of "Sabka
Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas"...

amanujacharya was a shining example of India's That is, in the world, welfare is done by virtues rather
unity and integrity. He was born in the south, but than caste. Following Ramanujacharya's words, India
Rhis influence extends throughout India, from is moving forward on the principle of social justice
south to north and east to west. "Uyergalukkul bedam and development for all without discrimination. At
illai," Ramanujacharya used to say. That is, all beings the same time, today's changing India is making
are created equal. Not only did he preach about the a concerted effort to allow those who have been
unity of Brahma and Jiva, but he also lived this Vedic oppressed for centuries to participate in the country's
sutra. Furthermore, he stated that religion states, development with full dignity. It is the result of
"Na Jatih Karanam Loke Gunah Kalyan Hetavah." the government's efforts, which considers "Sabka

28 New India Samachar March 1-15, 2022