Rohan Giri
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, a distinguished Indian philosopher and thinker, and brain behind the concept of Ekatma Manavdarshan (integral humanism) and Antyodaya (uplifting the last individual) as a sophisticated framework for addressing multifaceted issues of development. This framework provides a stark contrast to the Western doctrine of individualism and Marxist philosophy of collectivism, proposing a holistic model that harmoniously integrates material, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of human life. Grounded in rich history of Bharat’s cultural heritage, possessing universal applicability, Ekatma Manavdarshan envisions a societal structure where personal fulfilment is intrinsically linked with collective advancement, thus fostering inclusive growth and environmentally sustainable progress.
Through the lens of Upadhyay’s philosophy, pursuit of development is not merely about material accumulation but rather a holistic endeavour that encompasses ethical governance, social equity, and a harmonious relationship with environment. This perspective presents a compelling alternative to materialistic ideologies that often overlook broader human experience, offering a balanced approach that could potentially guide future policy-making and societal transformation efforts.
(Author is a doctoral scholar at Amity University in Gwalior, content manager at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, New Delhi)
CIHS - Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies 