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“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (often written as “Vasundhara Kutumbakam”), meaning “The World is One Family,” is a profound concept rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, originating from the Mahopanishad. This idea emphasizes a vision of universal kinship, where the entire world is viewed as an interconnected family, transcending divisions of nationality, race, or religion. The term “Vasundhara” represents the Earth, and this concept advocates for a sense of shared responsibility toward each other and the planet.
The phrase “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” finds its origins in the Mahopanishad (Chapter 6, Verse 72) and conveys that, despite individual identities, all of humanity belongs to a single family on Earth. This idea is deeply embedded in Indian spiritual and cultural thought, emphasizing compassion, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. In Buddhism and Jainism as well, similar concepts promote a vision of interconnectedness, emphasizing empathy and non-violence.
In today’s globalized world, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam holds significant relevance as countries increasingly face common challenges that require collective responses:
India has adopted Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam as a guiding principle in its foreign policy and international initiatives:
For India, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is a cultural cornerstone and a key principle in diplomacy, guiding its efforts in global peacebuilding and sustainable development. The concept aligns with India’s role as a soft power, promoting values of non-violence, tolerance, and cooperation.
Globally, adopting this philosophy fosters mutual respect and collective responsibility, crucial for addressing transnational issues like climate change, economic disparities, and pandemics. By embracing Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world can work towards a future of shared prosperity, resilience, and lasting peace.
In essence, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is not only a timeless spiritual vision but also a practical framework for an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world. It serves as both an ethical foundation and a guiding vision for addressing global challenges collaboratively.