Context:

The Prime Minister of India paid tribute to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya on his 108th birth anniversary, who propounded the idea of Integral Humanism.

Integral Humanism: The Philosophy of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya

Overview:

• Integral Humanism is a philosophy introduced by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya in the early 1960s. 
• It draws from India’s ancient traditions and culture, focusing on the unity and harmony between individuals, society, and the universe. 
• The philosophy emphasizes a higher moral authority and the importance of a complete human development, which includes the body, mind, intelligence, and soul.

Critique of Western Ideologies:

• He opposed both Western capitalism and Marxist socialism, arguing that they focus primarily on physical and mental needs, neglecting spiritual development. 
• He believed these ideologies are materialistic and can lead to conflicts, such as nationalism threatening world peace or exploitation resulting from democracy and capitalism. 
• He asserted that India should not blindly adopt these Western ideas but should instead embrace its own rich cultural heritage.

Integral humanism is built on three main principles:

• Primacy of the Whole: Emphasizes the importance of viewing life as an integrated whole rather than in separate parts.
• Supremacy of Dharma: Advocates that moral principles should guide society.
• Autonomy of Society: Supports the idea that society should have the freedom to govern itself.

According to Upadhyaya, humans have four essential needs:

• Kama: Desires and satisfaction.
• Artha: Wealth and resources.
• Dharma: Moral duties and responsibilities.
• Moksha: Spiritual liberation.

Cultural Concepts and Legacy:

• He emphasized that every nation has its own central cultural ideas (Riti) and unique societal characteristics (Virat). 
• He believed that individuals have specific roles and responsibilities and that the essence of integral humanism lies in integrating these diverse aspects of life.
• His philosophy remains relevant today, providing insights into contemporary political challenges and advocating for a holistic approach to human development rooted in traditional Indian knowledge.

About Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya

• He is regarded as one of India's most influential political thinkers. 
• Born on September 25, 1916, in Nangla, Mathura (UP).
• Studied at Sanatan Dharma College, Kanpur, where he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
• Qualified as a teacher but chose to work full-time with the RSS starting in 1942.
• Founded and edited several publications, including "Rashtra Dharma," "Panchajanya," and "Swadesh."
• Became the first General Secretary of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh's U.P. branch in 1951 and later served as All India General Secretary.
• Advocated for a decentralized government and a self-reliant economy centered around villages.
• Supported modern technology while emphasizing its adaptation to Indian contexts.
• He focused on practical issues and aimed to uplift the masses, offering a comprehensive Indian alternative to existing ideologies.