________________
BIRTH OF A NOBLE NATION
187
beautiful and true statement by Nelson Mandela. Could you tell me, what is unique about Nelson Mandela? Kalam: When Nelson Mandela became the President of South Africa, he gave those who had indulged in apartheid and had ill-treated and put him in the jail for twenty-six years, the freedom to move and live in South Africa as equal citizens. The greatness of the spirit shown by Nelson Mandela is beautifully captured by the poet Thiruvalluvar:
இன்னா செய்தாரை ஒறுத்தல் அவர்நாண நன்னயம் செய்து விடல்
For those who do ill to you, the best punishment is to return good to them.' This characteristic among leaders is essential for promoting harmony and peace in society. Acharya: Do you have a similar experience in India? Kalam: During my peace pilgrimage, I visited Apapuri in Bihar—the sinless town. There is a beautiful temple of white marble where Lord Mahavira had delivered his sermons. I went to Jal Mandir, the place where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana. I saw lotus flowers around me blooming in the lake, and remembered another couplet of Thiruvalluvar:
வெள்ளத் தனைய மலர்நீட்டம் மாந்தர்தம் உள்ளத் தனைய துயர்வு
'Whatever be the depth or the state of cleanliness of the pond, the lotus flower springs out and blooms majestically looking towards the sun.' Similarly, human life can be transformed into purposeful high living only when a great aim engulfs the mind of the individual.
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
