I think that though we have a strong value system embedded in our culture that has resolutely withstood the vagaries of times, people have generally become self-centred. In the race for material gains that they have stopped to imbibe wisdom from our elders and leaders. Religion is meant to make you more humane and practice brotherhood in the true sense of the term. But it is not so, therefore, people are directionless and not anchored. My guru are my parents, who have instilled the values, spending money judiciously and the importance of service to society, especially, the needy. I have special regards for two other people whom I regard as my mentors for significantly impacting my personal, professional and political life. It is because of them that I lead a very responsible, purposeful life and contribute a portion of my income for varied social causes. Over the years with more maturity and experience, I changed my approach to social service based on the adage "Charity starts from home". I created a corpus fund, identified needy people around me, who are associated in my daily life and started supporting them as an anonymous donor. I get immense satisfaction and happiness in doing so without the beneficiaries having to feel obliged to me.
As an active political person, how do you see the current leadership's role in bringing about a profound change in the country?
This story is from the March 03, 2024 edition of THE WEEK India.
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This story is from the March 03, 2024 edition of THE WEEK India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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