On the fourth day of the Shekhawati Sahitya Sangam, an event focused on contemporary topics, the spirit of India’s Constitution and its visual elements took center stage. Lakshminarayan Bhala, an expert in constitutional matters, shed light on the fascinating relationship between the Constitution’s Directive Principles of State Policy and the visual representations within it. Notably, he emphasized the addition of the Bhagavad Gita to explain these principles and the incorporation of the imagery of Ramrajya to safeguard fundamental rights. In this article, we delve into this unique aspect of India’s Constitution and its profound implications.
The Significance of Visual Elements
The Indian Constitution, a comprehensive document that governs the world’s largest democracy, is more than just a legal text. It is a living embodiment of the values, ideals, and aspirations of the nation. To help convey these principles, the framers of the Constitution employed visual elements, which serve as powerful symbols that resonate with the people.
Lakshminarayan Bhala highlighted the fact that each chapter of the Constitution is associated with a unique picture, and each image carries a deep message, making it easier for citizens to grasp the essence of that chapter. These visual representations are not mere decorations but tools that aid in comprehending the Constitution’s intricate concepts.
Explaining the Directive Principles of State Policy
Part 4 of the Constitution, which deals with the Directive Principles of State Policy, is a crucial section that outlines the socio-economic goals that the Indian government should strive to achieve. To make these principles more relatable, a picture of the Bhagavad Gita was included. The Gita’s teachings on duty, righteousness, and the path to a just society resonate with the ideals outlined in this part of the Constitution. It serves as a constant reminder of the nation’s moral compass.
Protecting Fundamental Rights with Ramrajya
Fundamental rights are the cornerstone of any democratic society. To emphasize their importance, the framers of the Constitution incorporated the imagery of Ramrajya. Ramrajya, an ideal kingdom as described in the Hindu epic Ramayana, represents a just and harmonious society where everyone’s rights are protected. By including this image, the Constitution underscores its commitment to safeguarding the rights and liberties of every citizen, ensuring that the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity are upheld.
The Evolution of the Constitution
Lakshminarayan Bhala’s insights also shed light on the historical and linguistic nuances within the Constitution. For example, the term “secular” was borrowed from the English language and later amended in the Preamble. Its original meaning, “secular activities,” was translated into Hindi as “Laukik Kriya.” However, political interests led to a reinterpretation of the term. Bhala’s caution to remain vigilant about the word “secular” reminds us of the importance of maintaining the Constitution’s core principles.
The discussion at the Shekhawati Sahitya Sangam provides a fascinating glimpse into the depths of India’s Constitution. It reveals how visual elements were strategically incorporated to make the Constitution more accessible to its diverse citizens. The Bhagavad Gita and the image of Ramrajya, in particular, serve as powerful symbols of India’s commitment to its Directive Principles of State Policy and the protection of fundamental rights. In a world where constitutions are often seen as dry legal documents, India’s Constitution stands out as a vibrant and visual representation of the nation’s values and aspirations.