Tracing the origins of various Indian dance forms, Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit said they benefited both the dancer and the audience and took them closer to God.
Speaking at the valedictory function of the world dance festival organised by Thillai Natyanjali Trust in Chidambaram on Saturday, Mr. Purohit said the greatness of Indian culture lies in its ability to draw people away from the mundane interests and towards elevated thought processes.
“We have had thinkers, philosophers and spiritual leaders in Indian society, who served as beacons to the whole world.”
Mr. Purohit pointed out that every part of the world had its special characteristics and greatness. Punctuality for the Germans, teamwork for the Japanese, etiquette for the British and salesmanship for the Americans are special qualities attributed to the people of these regions.
Similarly, spirituality is a special virtue for India. Spirituality is based on tolerance and acceptance of other people’s ideas. Spirituality is based on moving society towards a goal that goes beyond the self.
When society thinks of its people in general and their well-being, a civilisation flourishes. No wonder the Indian civilisation has flourished for thousands and thousands of years, he said.
