SPEECH

He Epitomizes Essence of Indian Civilisation : Sonia Gandhi
Opening remarks by the Congress president, Smt. Sonia Gandhi, at the function of Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration on 31st October at Jawahar Bhavan in New Delhi

This evening we honour a man whose life epitomizes the very essence of Indian civilisation at its loftiest. A man who represents the noblest human faculties, who stands as a model of integrity, dignity and probity in public life. No wonder that some of his colleagues refer to him as ‘Jagadguru’.

Sharadaprasadji is a self-effacing man. Few know that he participated in freedom movement and was in jail in 1942-43. He belongs to the community of those who cultivate detachment and uphold the truth. His calm self-awareness, his erudition and modesty have earned him the respect of us all. In his own serene way he has always resisted the tides of bigotry, fundamentalism of all hues, prejudice and communalism. His learning is strengthened by his wisdom. In Indiraji’s Secretariat, the conventional wisdom was "when in doubt, do as Sharda does".

I might share a secret with you - Shardaprasadji had to be coaxed and cajoled to accept this award. We are all pleased that he relented. Indiraji’s spirit will be immensely glad that one who served his country so well and with such devotion is receiving an award named after her.

Today, when dark and menacing events are engulfing our region, Indira Gandhi’s name is being invoked across the land. People look back and recall her valiant role in critical times, her steady hand in navigating the Indian ship of state through turbulent waters. She did India proud. For her greatness not only her countrymen but the world looked up to her.

Throughout her stewardship, Shri Sharda Prasad was at her side. He earned her complete confidence. She relied on him, she respected his judgement, his objectivity, rigorous self-discipline, his intuitive grasp and understanding of our history and heritage.

Shri Sharda Prasad, never raises his voice and has never been known to lose his temper. Yet no excess has been condoned by him. He is the quintessential Indian, embodying in his person a democratic spirit, a secular temper and an inborn tolerance. Today more than ever when in the name of religion, hatred is being bred, intolerance encouraged and the democratic process is being abused we need people with Shardaprasadji’s character, qualities and vision.

Today, more than ever before, there is need to remind ourselves that India is one and many at the same time, that India’s unity is derived from the harmonious inter-mingling of her multiple diversities.

Today, more than ever before, there is need to affirm our resolve to preserve, protect and promote sadhbhavana - social harmony and peace, mutual understanding and respect.

Ladies and Gentlemen, there is much one could say and one would like to say about but keeping in mind his well-known reticence I have taken special care to use very few words, and to tone down my expressions of regard and respect for him, but I must say that it gives me great pleasure personally to be here this evening to see him receiving the ‘Indira Gandhi Sadbhavana award’.