Books Transform Lives and Society: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlights the transformative power of books and India's democratic unity at the 29th Kochi International Book Festival.
Addressing a gathering of literary enthusiasts and intellectuals, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has asserted that books are far more than mere repositories of information. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the 29th Kochi International Book Festival, Birla described books as powerful instruments capable of transforming individual lives, broadening human perspectives, and driving positive change across society.
Knowledge vs. Information in the Digital Age
In an era dominated by rapid technological advancement, the Speaker drew a sharp distinction between having access to information and possessing true knowledge. While acknowledging that digital technology has made data readily available, he argued that genuine wisdom is derived from the depths of books and lived human experiences.
According to Birla, there is no substitute for the act of reading. He emphasized that reading does not just enrich a person's intellect but also cultivates essential human traits such as curiosity, sensitivity, and the capacity to view life through diverse lenses. He noted that books preserve the accumulated wisdom of generations, providing a guide for individuals to develop discipline, determination, and a clear sense of purpose.
Democracy and India's Diverse Strength
Moving beyond literature, Om Birla touched upon the socio-political fabric of the nation. He highlighted India's extraordinary diversity—spanning various languages, religions, and traditions—as its greatest strength. He observed that despite these differences, the country remains unified, with democracy serving as the primary force binding the nation together.
The Speaker remarked that the essence of democracy lies in teaching citizens to respect differing ideologies and opinions, allowing people to coexist in harmony. He stressed a vital point: while individual opinions may diverge, all citizens must remain steadfastly united when it comes to the national interest.
The Bridge of Language and Literature
Birla further discussed the role of language in fostering national unity, stating that languages serve to connect people rather than divide them. He specifically lauded the contributions of linguistic traditions such as Malayalam, Kannada, and Telugu in safeguarding India's spiritual, intellectual, and cultural heritage.
He credited Indian writers for projecting the nation's history and democratic values onto the global stage, noting that modern digital translation tools have further broken down linguistic barriers, allowing literature to reach a wider audience than ever before.
Celebrating Kerala's Literary Legacy
The Lok Sabha Speaker took the opportunity to praise Kerala's exemplary contributions to science, technology, and education, noting its distinction as India's first fully literate state. He observed that this commitment to education has enabled people from Kerala to excel both domestically and internationally, specifically highlighting the global contribution of Keralite women in the healthcare and nursing sectors.
Birla paid special tribute to the legacy of PN Panicker and the Kerala Granthasala movement, noting how the pioneering library movement transformed the state's socio-economic landscape. He also commended the observation of 'Vayana Dinam' (Reading Day) on June 19 as a testament to the state's sustained effort to promote a culture of reading.
A Call for Global Reach
Concluding his address, Om Birla commended the organizers of the Kochi International Book Festival for creating a platform for intellectual exchange. He urged for increased efforts to translate and export Kerala's rich spiritual and literary heritage to the rest of India and the world.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former ISRO Chairman S Somanath, International Book Festival Chairman Madhu S Nair, Prakash Babu, and Sahitya Akademi Secretary Varun Gula.