Mandela spirit carried across oceans
THE year 2018 marks a significant occasion in South African history as we celebrate the Nelson Mandela centenary. Experiencing different cultures and environments across the globe, I kept with me the significance of Mandela’s contribution to society as I mingled with other youth during my stay in China. His desire for peace and humanity throughout his livelihood were connected to the principles and philosophies in Hinduism.
“We are committed to building bridges and helping to embrace all of humanity under one umbrella. We believe that this is not different to what Hindu scriptures have also been saying,” – Nelson Mandela.
As a philanthropist, he has taught us the universal values of Ubuntu – to help those in need and to provide service to humanity. Perhaps this is one of the factors which led me to the field of medicine, the fulfilment we acquire once we have healed the broken and bruised.
Mandela emerged victorious as an anti-apartheid activist, demonstrating the principles inscribed in our Hindu scriptures, which teach us to take a stand against oppressive forces which hold us down. Today, these forces overwhelm our youth in far more attractive forms than we are aware. The technological age certainly provides a sense of freedom. However, youngsters need to be reminded that we are indeed free to choose; we are not free from the consequences of our choice.
Having explored geographical distances across the oceans, which led us to liberation yet still finding solitude in thy “home”, it is vital to remember that South Africa is a country with diverse cultural and demographic tapestries, we celebrate unity in diversity.
The morals, ethics and values held by Mandela are a reflection of the teachings of various saints and sages belonging to Hindu Dharma.
Now is the time to achieve a peaceful nation and inspire young South African’s to build a prosperous country where all people can live in peace and harmony, an ideal which Mandela was prepared to sacrifice his life for this to become a reality.