Former VP Venkaiah Naidu confers with SIES Award for public leadership

Former vice president Venkaiah Naidu has been conferred with the 25th Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi National Eminence Award (SIES). Other awardees in various categories included the Governor of Kerala Arif Mohammed Khan, eminent industrialist Ratan Tata, renowned cardiologist and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr Marthanda Varma Sankaran Valianathan, Scientific Advisor to the Government of India Ajay Sood and famous Harikatha artiste Vishakha Hari. The awards are given in the fields of public leadership, community leadership, science and technology, and social thinkers who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.

Speaking on the occasion in Mumbai yesterday, former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu said the award is to give inspiration for others to work hard in whatever profession he chooses. Condemning the colonial mindset, the former VP said Indian civilization is thriving even today because it believes in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. He said for the welfare of humanity and humans, there is an urgent need to shun the colonial mindset and be inspired by the teachings and preachings of great people like Mahaswami of Kanchi, the 68th Sankaracharya of the Kamakoti Peetham. Describing the saint as a truly inspiring and illuminating spiritual icon, Mr Naidu said the Sankaracharya left a lasting impression on the hearts of innumerable devotees. Stressing the need to follow Indian tradition of culture and heritage, he said India’ cultural heritage and ethos have a message which gives Indians enthusiasm and makes them different. He said now the world is looking at India and the country has gained recognition across the world adding that if India practices its tradition, then it will once again become the Vishwa Guru.