General “Ranga” Aiyengar is a “Scholar-Warrior” in every sense of the term. While his expertise lay in Telecommunications, Electronics and Electronic Warfare, he saw active service along the Northern and Western frontiers of our country. Throughout his service, teaching and passing on his knowledge and expertise to his peers and subordinates has been an abiding passion. As Commandant of the elite National Defence College, New Delhi and later as Commandant of the prestigious Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, he has left an indelible imprint in grooming officers of the Armed forces in military strategy and National Security. In the Army, he was well known for his intellect, professional acumen, steadfastness and an abiding interest in upholding professional ethics, morals and values.
Post retirement in 2001, he chose to continue with his passion for reading and writing and passing on his vast knowledge through speaking assignments and seminars. He has also written several books; his diverse choice of subjects is truly amazing. He authored books on Social Media, National Security and “Military Ethics and Ethos of Indian Warriors”. His book on “Being, Becoming and Living”, is a collection of essays on every day issues – attitudes, optimism, life choices, leadership, fear, hatred, loneliness and many similar issues; each essay ending with practical and ethical way of dealing with them.
Over the years, General Aiyengar’s focus has gradually shifted to researching and exploring India’s infinite treasure of ancient knowledge systems and philosophical traditions transcending a few millennia. Poetess Avvaiyar’s Aathichoodi maxims written in Tamil about 3rd Century BC, provides guidance in dealing with every day moral and ethical issues and emphasizes on the need for upright character, inquiring nature, forgiveness and promoting equality. General Aiyengar has done a yeoman service in translating “Avvaiyar’s Timeless Wisdom” into English and interpreting its relevance for modern times. His book on “Ancient Indian Knowledge Systems” explores Indic Knowledge Systems offering a rich tapestry of prowess in science, mathematics, architecture, engineering, arts and philosophies for self-realization. Ancient governance models guided by principles of dharma, welfare, justice and decentralization of polity continue to be relevant to this day.
The Author’s latest book “Sanatana Dharma; A Layman’s Insights into Eternal Truths” is perhaps the most profound book that he has penned so far. It is universal in its approach and offers deep insights, meaning and significance of Sanatana Dharma. It provides enriching experience to the “Layman” and encourages him to explore deeper levels. It is a ready guide on the evolution, concepts and principles of India’s spiritual, philosophical and cultural traditions. Sanatana Dharma, variously described as Eternal Duty, Eternal Way and Eternal Law is the foundation of all Indic faiths. Gen Aiyengar is a Raj – Rishi who has observed and endured conflicts in all its dimensions- physical, emotional and spiritual. His childhood and upbringing in the holy town of Srirangam has enabled him to have a deep understanding of Sanatana Dharma. His many years in the Army in the service of the Nation has strengthened his belief in the eternal nature of Sanatana Dharma, its inclusiveness and deep respect to all faiths.
The book is well researched and is laid out in eight chapters. Easy to read and comprehend, the author guides the reader, through an initiation and understanding of Sanatana Dharma and progressively exposes him to its core concepts, sacred texts, diverse philosophical schools, rituals and ethical teachings. The last two chapters explain the relevance of Sanatana Dharma to the modern times.
In the Introductory Chapter, the Author provides a basic understanding of the origin and historical development of Sanatana Dharma and the concepts of “Eternal Order” and “Eternal Duty”. The Eternal Order is seen as the natural framework that maintains harmony and balance in the universe, through cosmic order. It regulates the functioning of the cycles of nature and moral order that embodies universal principles such as Satya, Dharma and Ahimsa. The Eternal Duty highlights the concept of Swadharma (personal dharma) and spiritual practices leading to the ultimate purpose of life, ie, attaining Moksha (Liberation). The reader is also exposed to the foundational concepts of texts based on Shruti (heard) and Smriti (remembered). The similarities and subtle differences between Sanatana Dharma and Hinduism are well explained. As Sri Aurobindo emphasized, Sanatana Dharma, loosely called Hinduism, “transcends sectarian boundaries and dogma; is inclusive and pluralistic and accommodates diverse approaches to the divine.”
The Chapter on Core Concepts and Principles is pivotal to the understanding of Sanatana Dharma. The core concepts such as Dharma, Karma, Samsara and Moksha have been explained in great detail. The relationship between Atman (Soul) and Brahman (Supeme Universal Spirit) is fundamental to every faith. Similarities but distinguishing views on “Oneness of the Self” with the Brahman espoused in ancient texts and interpreted by Saints and philosophers reinforces the belief in diverse paths to salvation.
The pluralistic nature of Sanatana Dharma, with wide range of beliefs and practices can be observed on how each one perceives Divinity-the formless Brahman; a Personal God in the form of Ishwara, and, a personal symbolism (Idol Worship). Sanatana Dharma evolves in the spaces of Prakriti (Nature), Maya (Cosmic Illusion) and Kaal (Cosmic Time). The Ashramas and Purusharthas leading to the ultimate goal of achieving Moksha are lucidly explained. The evolution of Varna, based on occupation, its gradual degeneration and rigid interpretation based on birth; and the reform movements over the centuries to eradicate the scourge has been discussed. It is an issue which is recurring in subsequent chapters as well. The principles of Sanatana Dharma such as Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Vasudeva Kutumbakam ( Universal Brotherhood), Shradha (Faith and Devotion), Saucham (Purity), Tapas (Austerity), Santosha (Contentment), Satsang (company of the Wise) and Dana (Gift) are universal virtues that every human should profess and practice, irrespective of his/her creed or faith. The concept of Nishkama Karma — performing one’s duty without any attachment to the results is a noble thought. Indeed, the concept of Dharma in all its manifestations and nuances reverberates as the central theme of Sanatana Dharma.
The chapter on sacred texts of Sanatana Dharma is elaborate, highlighting the differences between Astika (orthodox) texts such as Vedas and Upanishads and Nastika (heterodox) texts that are alternatives to Vedic texts. Shruti (that which is heard) texts, such as the Vedas, Upanishads are considered as divine revelations and are held in primacy. The Smriti (that which is remembered) texts such as Manusmriti, Yajnavalkya Smriti and Dharmashastras as well as the Itihasas and Puranas have been composed by human authors. They provide guidelines for personal conduct, social norms, legal systems and other aspects of life.
Philosophical Schools of Sanatana Dharma are many. Diverse and all-encompassing, they explore the nature of Reality, the Self, and the Divine. The author explains the diverse perspectives on the fundamental existence as explained in the six classical schools — Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta. The reader is exposed to different schools of Vedanta consisting of Advaita Vedanta, Vishishta Advaita, and Dvaita as also to Kashmiri Shaivism, which is a significant tradition within the broader spectrum of Sanatana Dharma.The contribution of key spiritual masters such as Patanjali, Adi Shankara, Ramanuja, Madhavacharya, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and later-day saints such as Dayanand Saraswati, Swami Vivekananda, Ramana Maharshi and Sree Narayana Guru is highlighted and their impact on spiritual and social reform has been elucidated.
Rituals and ceremonies have been a part of the living tradition of Sanatana Dharma since time immemorial. Rooted in ancient texts and traditions, they are integral to the daily lives of the followers and are a means of connecting with the Divine. As the author explains, these rituals encompass the living space of “womb to tomb and beyond”. They are not monolithic and vary across regions, communities and even families. These include Puja, Havan, Yagna, Vratas, Samskaras, chanting of Mantras and celebration of festivals.
Ethical teachings of Sanatana Dharma exemplify the core spiritual philosophy that is eternal and universal in application. The pursuit of righteousness, moral integrity, aligning one’s actions in tune with the principles of justice and harmony is the essence of life. Virtuous growth and ethical conduct are integral to the practice of Sanatana Dharma. The author examines the ethical wisdom rooted in the Shrutis and Smritis and also makes a comparative study of ethics, virtues, right and wrongs from an Indic and Western point of view. As the author explains, a large portion of Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutra of Patanjali and the epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata deal with the universal values, ethical and moral dilemmas and provide us day to day guidance.By promoting a fine balance between one’s duties (Swadharma) and the greatest good, Sanatana Dharma offers a holistic approach towards ethical living, where actions are guided by “selflessness, wisdom and a deep sense of interconnectedness with all existence.” These principles and guidelines continue to be relevant, offering practical wisdom in navigating modern complexities.
In recent years, Sanatana Dharma has been often denigrated and painted in derogatory terms, demanding that it be eradicated. While this has been done for political purposes and with a view to dividing the society, the very relevance of Sanatana Dharma in today’s world has come under question. The author spends a major portion of the book on the “Contemporary Relevance” of Sanatana Dharma. Undertaking an elaborate and painstaking exercise, ten issues have been identified relating to Sanatana Dharma and its relevance. The views of several modern-day philosophers, social reformers, and eminent personalities were sought and collated. The issues pertain to the challenges facing Sanatana Dharma in modern times; perceived criticisms and motivations, social and ethical issues such as caste and gender equality etc. The author suggests that the continued relevance of Sanatana Dharma and its positive aspects should be communicated to its followers as well as critics through educational outreach, media and use of modern technology. Further, he addresses the need for kindling the curiosity and interest of the younger generation and making them aware of the precepts and principles of Sanatana Dharma.There is a need for addressing common concerns such as casteism, untouchability, secularism, idol worship etc and bringing about an awareness of the social reform movements pioneered by Dayanand Saraswati, Swami Vivekananda and Sree Narayana Guru for eradicating perceived social evils and inequities. In conclusion, the author highlights the significance of Sanatana Dharma in Hinduism. Sanatana Dharma is remarkable for its universal aspects and timeless relevance with its emphasis on eternal truths and flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances.
Gen Aiyengar’s “Labour of Love” is truly remarkable for the vast canvas it covers, depth of research and the knowledge and wisdom it imparts. The book will have a lasting impression on the reader. It provides an excellent understanding of Sanatana Dharma’s eternal and unchanging nature, expounding universal truths that transcend space and time,and explains its inclusive nature and diverse approaches to Self-Realization. It is a good read for all, irrespective of their faith and beliefs. It provides an excellent understanding of a common thread of principles that runs across all faiths — ethical living, righteousness, non-violence, compassion, selfless service, charity and harmony with nature. For those who profess Hinduism and its many variants, it is a must-read. It provides an excellent understanding of the spiritual and philosophical basis of their faith, an awareness of ancient texts, and commentaries; an understanding of its inclusive and egalitarian nature. And as for the inquisitive seeker, it exposes him/ her to the many paths to be “One with the Brahman.” The book is an invaluable addition to every library.
Book Reviewed by –
Lt Gen K Surendra Nath, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd)
Former Army Commander, Army Training Command,
Former Member, Armed Forces Tribunal, Chennai[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
