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A Tradition of Bravery

(Gathering of the Rajput Community, Jamnagar)

All of us Indians uphold a tradition of sacrifice and
generosity. We are never overtly possessive about the
things we have. When we first created the Atom Bomb, we had
to repeatedly explain to the world that it was solely for self-
defence and not to attack anyone; yet they were not able to trust
our expertise. We have a thousand year old tradition of
sacrifice – for saving others and saving our values. I doubt if
any other nation in the world has such a rich heritage, and we
are proud of it.

Let me give you a pertinent example: When our country
attained freedom and was attempting to become an integrated
democracy, numerous kings gave everything they had for sake
of the unity and integrity of our country. This says it all.

I believe that the heritage of different traditions is present
in every society, and it comes only by God’s grace. Each society
however gets at least one chance to prove its heritage. The
heritage of royalty is evident when people from royal families
must pass through different kinds of training in order to develop
their qualities. As they grow, they are tested to see if the training
has been properly cultivated.

I know how difficult it is to leave a position of power. We
are supposed to govern the state for five years but it is tough to
leave the position after two years if we are made to do so.
Though our forefathers have not claimed this position nor have
we inherited it, it still becomes difficult for us to give up power.