Are countries not facing a dilemma?

In the epic Mahabharata, Karna, a warrior of immense power and generosity, became a symbol of loyalty, but also of the tragic consequences of siding with unrighteousness. He possessed extraordinary fighting skills and was known for his unwavering commitment to Duryodhana, even when aware of Duryodhana's morally questionable actions. Despite his many noble qualities, including generosity to the point of self-sacrifice, Karna's allegiance to the side of adharma ultimately led to his downfall at the hands of Arjuna. His silence in the face of injustice, particularly during the disrobing of Draupadi, is considered a significant flaw in his character, highlighting the potential for even virtuous individuals to be swayed by attachments and circumstances, ultimately impacting their legacy.

The current global geopolitical landscape presents a similar dilemma: nations often find themselves caught between conflicting loyalties and interests, making it challenging to openly and unequivocally support justice, lest they alienate other partners or disrupt existing alliances. The pursuit of national interests can sometimes eclipse ethical considerations, leading to situations where nations are aware of injustices but hesitate to take a stand due to perceived political or economic repercussions. This leads to the question: can a nation truly establish itself as a Viswaguru, or "world teacher" and leader, if it is unable or unwilling to consistently uphold the principles of righteousness and justice on the global stage?

To effectively lead in such a complex world, nations must find a way to navigate these challenges by:

Prioritizing moral principles and global well-being: Embracing ethical considerations and actively promoting justice and human rights globally, even if it requires challenging traditional notions of national interest.

Strengthening diplomacy and international cooperation: Utilizing dialogue, negotiation, and institutions to resolve conflicts peacefully and build trust among nations, rather than resorting to coercion or aggression.

Leveraging soft power and cultural exchange: Promoting mutual understanding, respect, and shared values through cultural diplomacy and collaboration, fostering a more interconnected and harmonious global community.

Addressing systemic injustices and power imbalances: Working towards a more equitable and inclusive world order where all nations, regardless of their size or power, have an equal voice and fair representation in international forums.

Ultimately, establishing oneself as a Viswaguru requires not just strength and influence, but also a demonstrable commitment to ethical leadership, global justice, and the well-being of all humanity. The path to becoming a true leader on the global stage lies in embodying the values one espouses, and actively working towards a more just and sustainable future for all nations.

In this context, whether we acknowledge it or not, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was a farsighted international initiative – though it may be perceived by many as a weakness. It emerged as a collective of states that chose not to formally align with or against any major power bloc. Although it was established during the Cold War era, its relevance endures even today—offering a potential "third way" for developing countries focused on promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.

NAM was conceived as a platform for newly independent nations to assert their sovereignty and pursue their own development priorities without being drawn into the ideological and geopolitical rivalry of the Cold War. The movement is grounded in core principles such as peaceful coexistence, non-interference in the internal affairs of other states, and the promotion of global peace and security—all of which resonate with the timeless ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the idea that "the world is one family."