SANATAN SPIRIT ECHOES IN FOREIGN LANDS

The statue of Mahatma Gandhi in London, Savarkar House, the memorial site of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, the painting of Goddess Saraswati in the British National Portrait Gallery, the oil portrait of Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, the painting “Sir Thomas Roe at the Court of Ajmer 1614” in St. Stephen’s Hall of the British Parliament, the Indian chair in the Barbados Parliament, along with celebrations of Navratri and performances of Ramleela on foreign soil—all are enduring symbols of India’s Sanatan culture that continue to guide global humanity. During the visit of Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani to the United Kingdom and Barbados for the study of parliamentary traditions and participation in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, the essence of Indian culture and national pride was vividly reflected.

Savarkar House – Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani visited Savarkar House in London, a historic center of India’s revolutionary movement. Devnani stated that this site, closely connected with India’s freedom struggle, was where the great revolutionary thinker Vinayak Damodar Savarkar lived and wrote his famous work The Indian War of Independence of 1857, which played a major role in inspiring the youth of India toward the freedom movement. It was on this land that in 1905, Shyamji Krishna Varma established the India House hostel and nationalist center, where Savarkar, between 1906 and 1909, outlined the strategy for India’s independence movement.

Ambedkar House Museum – Vasudev Devnani also visited the Ambedkar House Museum in London, where Dr. B. R. Ambedkar shaped his thoughts on justice and equality. A bronze statue of Dr. Ambedkar stands on the ground floor of the building. Devnani spent nearly an hour studying rare literature associated with Dr. Ambedkar in the museum. He noted that Babasaheb lived in this house while pursuing studies at the London School of Economics, conducting research on social justice, economic policy, and various aspects of Indian society. In the visitors’ book, Devnani wrote that the memorial dedicated to Babasaheb in London holds immense significance for all Indians.

Statue of Mahatma Gandhi in London – A statue of Mahatma Gandhi stands in London, symbolizing not only India’s father of the nation but also an inspiration for all humanity. His life based on truth, nonviolence, and morality continues to guide the world. The statue serves as a reminder that India’s working philosophy rests on compassion, peace, and truth. In times of global conflict, Gandhi’s principles remain a beacon of light for humanity.

Maharaja Ganga Singh’s Historic Portrait – The British National Portrait Gallery houses a historic oil portrait of Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, painted in 1921 by British artist Sir John Lavery. The portrait depicts the Maharaja in royal attire and the uniform of a British Field Marshal, symbolizing the global influence and leadership of an Indian ruler during that era.

Painting of Goddess Saraswati in the British Museum – A painting of Goddess Saraswati is displayed in the British Museum. Describing the museum as a unique confluence of art and history, Devnani said it stands as a living testament to the cultural and historical ties between India and Britain.

Indian Cultural Roots Beyond Borders – Devnani attended a grand performance of Ramleela in South London, organized by the Overseas Friends association. Deeply moved by the event, he addressed the Indian community present there, urging them to continue spreading the light of Sanatan culture across the world. He expressed appreciation to the community for organizing the performance abroad, calling it a vibrant representation of Indian Sanatan culture, which guides humanity on the path of truth and righteousness. He praised the community’s efforts to preserve India’s glorious values and to pass down the teachings and inspiration from the life of Lord Ram to future generations. Devnani described the Ramayana as the science of life, teaching dedication to duty and the sanctity of relationships—between father and son, husband and wife, brother and sister. He said that duty, as depicted in the Ramayana, is the foundation of true happiness in human life.

The ideals portrayed in the Ramayana remain the highest standards of human conduct even today. He urged all Indians to study the Ramayana and imbibe its values in their lives, stating that it makes a person truly humane. The staging of Ramleela in a city like London, he said, is strong evidence that the roots of Indian culture extend beyond borders. The event not only connects the Indian diaspora with their heritage but also conveys to the world that cultural and spiritual consciousness form the true basis of global harmony. When the message of the Ramayana is lived, ego, violence, and selfishness disappear, giving rise to peace and compassion. Sanatan culture, he said, is the art of living, guiding humankind toward self-awareness and benevolence.

Painting of Ajmer in the British Parliament – Devnani viewed the painting Sir Thomas Roe at the Court of Ajmer, 1614 in St. Stephen’s Hall of the British Parliament. The artwork is part of the series The Building of Britain, depicting important moments in British India and reminding viewers of centuries-old Indo-British relations.

Kensington Oval Cricket Stadium – During his visit to Barbados, Devnani toured the Kensington Oval Cricket Stadium, describing it as a place that radiates the glorious tradition of cricket in every corner. He admired the grandeur and natural beauty of the venue, recalling that India had defeated South Africa in a memorable match at the stadium. He said that remembering the Indian team’s victory at that ground fills him with pride and inspiration.

Barbados Parliament – During the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, Devnani visited the Parliament of Barbados, calling it an inspiring opportunity to witness the proud democratic traditions of the nation. The Speaker’s Chair in the Barbados Parliament was a gift from India, symbolizing the historic friendship, shared democratic values, and common heritage between the two countries. Devnani said that the ties between India and Barbados continue to grow stronger, fostering democracy and global unity

Dignified Indian Representation – India was represented at the conference by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, and Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani, along with Speakers from various state legislatures.

Meaningful Discussions at the Round Table – During the round table discussions at the conference, parliamentary representatives from different countries shared experiences and perspectives on key topics such as financial autonomy of institutions, the role and effectiveness of parliamentary committees, 33 percent reservation for women, institutional transparency and accountability, technological innovation, and public participation. Devnani emphasized that the true strength of democracy lies in institutions that listen to the people’s voice, understand it, and act upon it. He noted that India’s state legislatures embody democratic decision-making. In his tenminute address, Devnani highlighted that India and the United Kingdom are working together on issues like terrorism, environment, and global stability, and that India’s role has become decisive in all major global matters.

He announced that the Rajasthan government will observe Pravasi Diwas (Non-Resident Indian Day) on December 10 and urged overseas Indians to participate. “India’s culture is our soul,” he said. “Wherever there are Indians, there is India’s consciousness. The Indian diaspora are living ambassadors of that consciousness, spreading India’s reputation across the world.” Devnani said that granting 33 percent reservation for women in democratic institutions would be a historic step toward sensitive policymaking. True democracy, he added, can only exist when all sections of society participate in decision-making. Delegates from several countries agreed that financial autonomy forms the foundation of institutional effectiveness. Devnani stated that when legislative bodies can make their own financial decisions, they can work independently, free from administrative pressures, and truly serve public interest—a necessity for the health of democracy.

He further stated that good governance lies at the heart of the Commonwealth’s mission, and India has presented to the world a unique model of digital governance and accountability. The recognition of India’s CPGRAMS system by the Commonwealth Secretariat as a global best practice in smart governance reflects the credibility of India’s transparent governance model. He also noted that India’s Digital Stack model is revolutionizing citizen participation and service delivery. In the context of Rajasthan, he said the state has made its Assembly completely digital through the “One Nation, One Application” initiative and the National eVidhan Application (NeVA), marking a new chapter in transparency and efficiency.

Interaction with the Indian Diaspora – At the Indian Embassy in Barbados, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Vasudev Devnani met with members of the Indian community. Devnani said it was a matter of pride that overseas Indians remain deeply connected with Indian values, culture, and traditions. During the interaction, Birla and Devnani discussed with the diaspora India’s rapid development, self-reliance initiatives, and global cooperation efforts. Devnani also met members of the Sindhi community in Barbados, describing the meeting as deeply personal and emotional. The Sindhi community, he noted, has earned great respect locally through hard work, dedication, and discipline while keeping the dignity of Indian culture alive. Community members expressed pride in Indian democracy and the country’s growing global stature. The meeting, he said, reflected the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world as one family — that transcends national boundaries. Expressing gratitude, Devnani said the affection and Indian spirit of the Sindhi community made his visit even more memorable.

Rajasthan’s Role and Contribution – Devnani stated that democracy resides in institutions that uphold the people’s trust. The credibility, financial autonomy, and transparency of constitutional bodies are the true hallmarks of democracy. The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly has taken several steps toward institutional strengthening through public participation, digital innovation, and transparent functioning. Innovations such as the online question system, e-Vidhan process, and Assembly Museum have helped make the legislature more accessible and accountable.

An Inspiring Conference – Concluding his remarks, Devnani said that participating alongside global speakers & leaders in 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Barbados was a truly inspiring experience. He said shared democratic values can build a just, inclusive future, and India’s active role strengthens its parliamentary traditions and global democratic commitment.

Dr Lokesh Chandra Sharma, Deputy Director, Public Relations, Rajasthan Legislative Assembly