________________ 71 Some Reflections on the Gaps in Vaisali's History EFFORT NECESSARY TO REGAIN IT It has to be confessed that there has taken place a great deterioration in national character during the last few hundred years. Successful lie, it has been observed, is the only defence of a tyrannised slave. It is, therefore, no wonder that our national character should have deteriorated during the period of slavery. Is it not now high time that we should make a determined and nationwide effort to raise the national character ? It has to be admitted with sorrow and shame that one of the greatest victories for the gospel of truth and non-violence has been bismirched by the great deterioration in our national character that has followed its achievement. In a way this was also inevitable. Let the achievements of the Licchavis in the past inspire us for a strenuous effort in this connection. The Licchavis, who assembled in their republican parliament, reminded one of gods on account of the purity of their character and loftiness of their disinterested purpose. Let us all take a lesson from them. In our different spheres of life whether high or low, private or public, let none have an occasion to impeach us either or for dishonesty for incapacity. Strenuous and proJonged effort is necessary to achieve tbis desideratum. Here again Vaisali will give us the necessary inspiration. The Buddha began his spiritual life and discipline here at Vaisah under the guidance of Alara Kalama and did not give up his effort till he achieved his goal six years later. Let us begin our national tapasya for the purification and ennobling of national life and character with the Buddha, Mahavira and Mahatma Gandhi to inspire us. If we are true to their teachings and do not spare ourselves, we shall soon rise as a great nation. LESSON OF COMMUNAL HARMONY Communal passions are at present raging high; there is a conflict of ideologies; intolerance is raising its bead everywhere. On such an occasion ancient Vaigali has its own ennobling meassage for us. Vaisali stood for search after truth and toleration for honest opinions. Philosophical controversies (Shastrarthas) that used to be held in the court of king Janaka were occasions for the publication and discussion of divergent philosophical views and theories discovered after great spiritual endeavour. Every one way welcome to advocate his own views without let or hindrance. Later on Mahliyir expounded his unique philosophy of Anekantavada, in which he pointed out how Truth bas many faces and how we have to comprehend them all in order to get a true picture of the Supreme Reality. The ancient Vaisalians followed this viewpoint in their daily life. They continued to pay reverence to their ancient Caityas or places of Worship, even after the rise of Buddhism and Jainism. Nay, we find the Buddha himself exhorting
