Central Idea

• The inclusion of the Sanskrit term “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The world is one family) in the G-20 logo has sparked diplomatic discussions between India and China.
• Reports surfaced suggesting that China objected to the use of non-UN languages like Sanskrit in G-20 texts being negotiated.

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam

• The ancient Sanskrit phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” encapsulates the idea of the world as one interconnected family.
• Rooted in religious texts, this concept reverberates through history and has found resonance in modern times, impacting diplomatic exchanges and global events.

अयं निजः परो वेति गणना लघुचेतसाम्।

उदारचरितानां तु वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्॥

Meaning: Considerations like “he is mine or he is another’s” occur only to the narrow minded person. To the broad-minded person the whole world is a family.

Origin and Meaning:

• Sanskrit Phrase: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” is composed of three words: Vasudha (Earth), Eva (Thus), and Kutumbakam (Family).
• Moral Value: It is considered a profound moral value, reflecting interconnectedness and universal harmony.

Historical Context:

• Maha Upanishad Verse: The original verse appears in Maha Upanishad stressing unity among all beings and the world.
• Engraved Symbolism: The verse is inscribed in the entrance hall of the Parliament of India, reflecting its importance in Indian society.
• Embrace of Unity: The verse advocates embracing the world as a family, urging magnanimity and detachment.

Interpretations and Influences

• Spiritual Progress: Subsequent shlokas expand on the idea, stating that detachment leads to attaining the Brahman (Universal Spirit).
• Influence in Hindu Literature: The Bhagavad Gita refers to “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” as the “Loftiest Vedantic Thought,” demonstrating its influence in Hindu philosophy.
• Gandhian Connection: Dr. N. Radhakrishnan relates the concept to Gandhi’s holistic development vision and nonviolent conflict resolution.

Modern Relevance

• PM’s Reference: Prime Minister Modi invoked the phrase, highlighting its values of unity and cultural richness.
• International Earth Science Olympiad: The phrase was used in the logo of the 7th International Earth Science Olympiad, emphasizing Earth’s interconnected systems.
• India’s G20 Presidency: The theme and logo of India’s G20 Presidency included “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” representing global unity.

Diplomatic Controversy

• China’s Opposition: China objected to the use of Sanskrit in G20 documents, asserting that it’s not an official UN language.
• Logo Exclusion: Despite its significance, the phrase did not appear in official G20 documents due to China’s objections.

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