The fact remains that secularism is inherent in the Indian system, in the Indian ethos and culture. India cannot but be secular.
Interpretation
Secularism is a fundamental aspect of Indian identity and culture.
In this quote, Pranab Mukherjee emphasizes that secularism is not just a political stance in India but an intrinsic part of its social and cultural fabric. He suggests that the diverse and pluralistic nature of Indian society makes it impossible for India to be anything other than secular, reflecting its long-standing values of coexistence and respect for various beliefs.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of secular values in governance.
Propelled by freedom of faith, gender equality and economic justice for all, India will become a modern nation. Minor blemishes cannot cloak the fact that India is becoming such a modern nation: no faith is in danger in our country, and the continuing commitment to gender equality is one of the great narratives of our times.
The weakness of ourselves and of our reason makes us see flaws in beauties by making us consider everything piece by piece.
If he be so resolved, I can o'ersway him; for he loves to hear That unicorns may be betrayed with trees And bears with glasses, elephants with holes, Lions with toils, and men with flatterers
A few years ago, the city council of Monza, Italy, barred pet owners from keeping goldfish in curved bowls... saying that it is cruel to keep a fish in a bowl with curved sides because, gazing out, the fish would have a distorted view of reality. But how do we know we have the true, undistorted picture of reality?
You may be sure that when a man begins to call himself a realist he is preparing to do something that he is secretly ashamed of doing.
Men and governments must act to the best of their ability. There is no such thing as absolute certainty but there is assurance sufficient for the purposes of human life.
Choice of evils debates always produce extremism - people choose what they hope is the lesser evil, then call it good and demonize the other choice. It will be a challenge for your generation to synthesize - to move beyond Us versus Them, to We.
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