At the grand launch of I AM?, a profound book authored by Gopichand P Hinduja, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar delivered a compelling address that highlighted India’s civilisational message of unity, tolerance, and spiritual coexistence. The event, hosted by the Hinduja family in New Delhi, saw the presence of several prominent leaders and intellectuals, making it a significant occasion for thought and dialogue.
Dhankhar began by thanking Swami Chidanand Saraswati and other dignitaries, including NSA Ajit Doval and Rajya Sabha MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi, for their presence. He described I Am as a much-needed and thought-provoking work, offering essential insights into shared human values in an increasingly divided world. “This book, endorsed by global leaders like King Charles III and Sheikh Nahyan of the UAE, serves as a bridge between cultures, reflecting India’s long-standing tradition of tolerance and dialogue,” he remarked.
Dhankhar delved into the significance of the book’s title, explaining how the phrase “I am with you” has the potential to inspire and heal. “When expanded to ‘I am for us,’ it embodies the selflessness required for true leadership,” he said, linking it to India’s ancient philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future.
The Vice-President warned against divisive forces that threaten societal unity and called for a collective commitment to coexistence. “In today’s fractured world, I AM? stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging dialogue over conflict, coexistence over division, and reflection over arrogance,” Dhankhar said. He emphasised that true power lies in restraint and humility, not in dominance, and praised the book’s alignment with India’s spiritual ethos, which values inclusion and respect for diverse perspectives.
Economic development
Addressing India’s current trajectory, he noted the country’s remarkable progress in economic development, technological innovation, and infrastructure growth. However, he cautioned against forces exploiting societal differences based on caste, class, and religion. He urged leaders to foster harmony and warned that any deviation from this path could undermine national progress.
Dhankhar commended the Hinduja family for their efforts in promoting these ideals globally, both through their business ventures and their cultural initiatives. He praised GP Hinduja for presenting a work that can guide people towards greater self-awareness and collective wellbeing.
Hindujas’ vision
Following the Vice-President’s address, Ashok Hinduja spoke about the family’s vision in creating I AM?, emphasising its role in promoting Sarva Dharma Sambhav – the principle of respecting and honouring all religions equally. He said the inspiration for the book came from GP Hinduja’s reflections on global conflicts stemming from religious differences.
“Religion was meant to unite humanity, not divide it,” he said, referencing GP’s lifelong belief. He shared how GP’s experiences, from his early education in Mumbai to his work in Iran and the UK, shaped his worldview and commitment to fostering cross-cultural harmony.
The book, he explained, emerged from years of meaningful conversations with spiritual leaders and intellectuals who agreed that most religious conflicts are rooted in human misinterpretation and bias rather than fundamental differences.
He emphasised that I AM? is not only a personal journey but also a message to future generations. “It urges readers to go beyond labels and discover their true selves. If this book can inspire even a small group of young minds, it will leave a lasting legacy,” Ashok Hinduja said.
Spiritual dimension
Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswati’s address brought a spiritual dimension to the event, focusing on values that transcend material wealth and emphasise the interconnectedness of humanity. He reminded the audience of India’s foundational philosophy: accepting noble thoughts from all directions and living in harmony with all beings.
Swami Saraswati commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership during India’s G20 presidency, where the inclusion of the African Union transformed the G20 into G21. He noted that this expansion represented more than just a political gesture – it symbolised India’s spirit of inclusion, collaboration, and mutual growth.
“India’s role is to unite, not merely through agreements but through a shared vision for the future,” he said.
Humility, discipline
He emphasised the importance of humility, discipline, and truth, drawing on the example of Lord Ram, whose values represent resolution over conflict and humility over arrogance. Swami Saraswati highlighted that true development is not measured by material gains but by a commitment to societal welfare and spiritual growth. He commended the Hinduja family for its philanthropic efforts and its understanding that wealth should be viewed as a resource for the greater good. “Their example demonstrates that material success must be accompanied by meaningful contributions to society,” he said.
Vice-President, Jagdeep Dhankhar
The launch of I AM? resonated deeply with its audience, with Vice-President Dhankhar, Ashok Hinduja, and Swami Saraswati delivering a unified message: the world must embrace dialogue, tolerance, and collective wellbeing to overcome its divisions. With India’s enduring spiritual legacy as its foundation, the event highlighted a vision for a future where unity, empathy, and values are prioritszed over conflict. As Vice-President Dhankhar aptly concluded, “Bharat’s message of inclusivity is not just its strength, but a light for the entire world.”
