The results of the momentous 2024 Lok Sabha elections will be declared on Tuesday, marking the culmination of polling across seven phases for India's 543 parliamentary seats. After the final phase of campaigning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu on May 30th, where he embarked on a 45-hour meditative journey at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. He returned to Delhi on the evening of June 1st. Along the way, Modi penned an article reflecting on his meditative experiences at Kanyakumari.
'As democracy's grand festival in the birthplace of democracy comes to an end, I find myself aboard an airplane bound for Delhi, following three days of spiritual passage in Kanyakumari... Voting continues in Kashi and numerous other constituencies. I feel an infinite energy coursing within me.'
'Indeed, the 2024 elections have been filled with auspicious alignments. My last rally of this election circle took place in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, land venerated by Guru Ravidas. It was a particular honor to culminate there and then have the opportunity to sit at the feet of Mother India in Kanyakumari. The cacophony of elections filled my consciousness in those early moments. Countless faces glimpsed during rallies and roadshows flashed before my eyes. The overwhelming affection of mothers, sisters, daughters—their blessings, the trust and fondness I saw in their eyes—I was assimilating it all, my eyes brimming. I was entering a void, the beginning of meditation.'
'Before long, the raucous discord of political debates, ripostes, and accusations all faded into oblivion. My heart felt an increased detachment... free from the material world. Undertaking such an intense meditation amidst immense responsibilities is challenging, yet the land of Kanyakumari and the inspiration of Swami Vivekananda made it effortless. The rising sun of Kanyakumari instilled new heights to my thoughts, while the vastness of the ocean expanded them, and the horizon's expanse continually reminded me of the unity within the universe. It felt as if contemplations and experiences from decades earlier in the Himalayas were being revived.'
'Kanyakumari is a land of confluences—the sacred rivers of our country merging into different seas, and here, they unite. There's another significant convergence here—a confluence of India's ideologies. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial, the grand statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar, Gandhi Mandapam, and Kamarajar Mani Mandapam all stand together.'
'India has been a center for intellectual pursuit for thousands of years. What we've acquired has never been hoarded for personal profit nor measured by economic or materialistic scales, hence 'Idam Na Mama' (not for me, but for all) has become an inherent part of our character. India's well-being signifies the world's well-being; India's progress reflects global progress. The Indian freedom movement is a prominent example of this ethos.'
'Today, India's governance model serves as an exemplar to many nations. Lifting 250 million people out of poverty within a decade is unprecedented. Initiatives like 'Pro-People Good Governance' are being discussed worldwide. Digital India's campaign is a testament to how technology can empower the poor, foster transparency, and ensure their rights. Affordable data in India is now a tool for social equality, ensuring the poor's access to information and services.'
'India's development is not only a massive opportunity for us but also a historic one for our fellow nations. Post the success of G-20, the world is acknowledging India's role even more vocally. India is being recognized as a potent voice for the Global South. We must not waste a single moment but stride towards greater goals and responsibilities. It's time to dream anew and start living those dreams. As a young nation, India's capacity offers us a splendid alignment of opportunities, where looking back is not an option.'
'The 21st century looks to India with great hope, and for advancing in the global scenario, we must embrace change. Improvements in India must transcend economic shifts and extend into every life aspect. We must take pride in being chosen by the Divine to serve India and have a role in its ascent. Embracing ancient values in a modern context, we must redefine our heritage. As a nation, we must shed outdated beliefs and ideologies and extricate our society from the clutches of steadfast pessimists. Let us remember, liberation from negativity is the first step towards success. Success thrives in the cradle of positivity.'
'My faith, reverence, and trust in India's eternal and undying strength continues to grow day by day. Over the past ten years, I've witnessed this power flourish. The time for sacrifice, akin to our fight for freedom, has passed. Today, we are summoned not for sacrifice but for continuous contribution.'
'In 1897, Swami Vivekananda declared that we must dedicate the next 50 years solely to our nation. Precisely 50 years later, India gained independence. We are presented with a similar golden opportunity today. Let's dedicate the next 25 years to relentless service to our nation. Our efforts will lay a robust foundation for a new India for the coming generations and centuries. Seeing the energy of our country, I firmly believe our goal is within reach. Let's move swiftly, together, and elevate India to a developed nation.'
