Acharya Prashant explains that a nation is typically defined by shared characteristics like race, language, or religion, which often leads to a divisive 'man versus man' ideology. He argues that such nationalism is founded on differences and the ego, which thrives on boundaries and separation. When nationalism is based on what separates people, it inevitably becomes toxic and violent, as seen in historical examples like Nazi Germany or the partition of India and Pakistan. He suggests that the ego is the root of this suffering, as the very concept of 'I' implies separation from the world and others. Therefore, any nationalism arising from the ego is inauspicious and leads to discord and war. Instead, Acharya Prashant proposes a virtuous and enlightened nationalism founded on a unifying principle, which he identifies as the 'borderless self' or 'Atma' as enunciated in Vedant. This kind of nationalism aims to dissolve the ego and the sense of 'I-ness' rather than reinforcing it. He asserts that the true purpose of a nation, including its constitution, laws, and institutions, should be the inner freedom and liberation of the individual. A noble nation is born when people unite with the common mission of ending human suffering and understanding the underlying oneness of all beings. He emphasizes that this inward approach is the only way to avoid the catastrophes caused by traditional, militant nationalism. Finally, he redefines the concept of 'Bharat' or the real India, stating it should not be limited to geographical frontiers or political identity. To him, a true Indian is someone who understands the basis of life and seeks liberation from its bondages. He distinguishes between being a citizen and being a true national, suggesting that the latter requires a high level of consciousness and the courage to investigate the nature of the self. He cautions against indoctrinating the youth with sectarian ideologies, urging instead for an education that focuses on inner upliftment and the reality of the ego to foster a nationalism based on understanding and universal unity.