”The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer” -Mahatma Gandhi

Q.3 (a) ”The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer” -Mahatma Gandhi (10m) Theory

The above quote of Mahatma Gandhi emphasises the profound impact of small acts of kindness compared to religious rituals or ceremonies. Kindness refers to the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.

Mahatma Gandhi himself exemplified kindness when while trying to board a train, one of his shoes came off. Just as the train began to move off the station, He quickly removed the other pair and threw it in the same direction so that whoever finds the shoes would have a pair to wear.

Gandhiji considered Kindness as more powerful than a thousand heads bowing in prayer because a kind act takes physical action and a prayer takes spiritual strength.

Present relevance of ‘kindness’:-

Encourages others: Acts of kindness may encourage others to repeat the good deeds they’ve experienced themselves – contributing to a more positive community.

Ex- Being an unwanted child for her parents, PadmShri SindhuTai Sapkal devoted herself to raising orphaned children.

World becoming a happier place for everyone: Kinds helps one boost the  feelings of confidence, happiness and optimism.

Ex- A Delhi ragpicker Pratima Devi takes care of around 200 stray dogs proving one needs a compassionate heart more than money for small acts of kindness.

Feeling of fulfilment: Gandhi said that ‘’the best way of finding yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.’’

Ex- Mumbai ke liye kuch bhi karega Spirit of Project Mumbai volunteers.

Gives a New Perspective: Demonstrating kindness enhances one’s capacity for empathy and enables them to perceive the world through another person’s viewpoint.
Physical and Mental health: It can reduce both blood pressure and stress, consequently promoting overall health in the face of the detrimental impacts of a sedentary lifestyle.

Religion’s emphasizing kindness:

Hinduism: Bhagwat Geeta propounds that kindness to others is one of the constituents of the austerities (tapas) of the mind.

Islam: The concept of Huqooq ul Ibad includes being kind and sympathetic to fellow human beings.

Conclusion:

Thus, in essence, kindness calls for people to translate one’s religious and personal beliefs and values into meaningful actions that uplift and support others.

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