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SPIRITUAL-SCIENTIFIC PERSONALITY/215
A dialogue between Jain Acharya Mahapragya and the President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on
13th August 2002 at Ahmedabad In the year 1999, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam paid his first visit to Acharya Shree Mahapragya as a renowned scientist. He got the first hand and pure knowledge of Jain philosophy during that meeting which lasted for around forty five minutes. The logical and scientific contents of the Jain philosophy left a lasting impression on him. His virtues of politeness, simplicity, congeniality and adaptability remained undiminished even after acquiring the highest office of our country. Abstract of the talks held between the President of India, Dr. Kalam and Mahapragya are -- Dr. Kalam: Swamiji! I intend to eradicate the problems being faced by our country. I need your blessings. I firmly believe that your blessings will enable me to achieve my goals.
Mahapragya: You have made certain declarations during your oath ceremony; you have to mould our nation accordingly.
Dr. Kalam: Yes! Yes!
Mahapragya: Today, nation is facing three major problems –
1. Poverty 2. Terrorism
3. Casteism and Religious fundamentalism.
So long as these problems persist, our nation can not embark upon the journey of peace and development. These problems can not be overcome by the missiles and weapons of destruction but with the 'Madhur-Shastra' (weapon of politeness). Dr. Kalam: ‘Madhur-Shastra'....? Mahapragya: There is an incident in Mahabharat. Krishna was very disappointed with the rising unrest and discontent among his natives. He discussed them with Narad. The witty Narad advised, “You overcame the enemies with weapons, but to win over your internal problems, you must deploy 'Madhur-Shastra' – the non-destructive weapon of politeness. This alone can bring back the peace.”
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