Acharya Prashant discusses the Fundamental Duties outlined in the Indian Constitution, noting that while respecting the national anthem and the national flag is a stated duty, other equally important duties are often overlooked. He points out that the constitution also mandates the protection of the environment and showing compassion towards all living creatures. He questions the selective emphasis on respecting the tricolor while ignoring the duty of compassion, especially when the government of India is actively working to make the country the world's largest slaughterhouse through what is termed the 'Pink Revolution'. The speaker highlights the contradiction wherein the government promotes the production and export of meat, which involves artificial insemination and the slaughter of animals, directly opposing the constitutional duty of compassion. He argues that by promoting the consumption of eggs and chicken for health, the government itself is violating the constitution. He asks why no government has ever spoken about compassion for animals and instead subsidizes slaughterhouses and promotes meat exports. This, he asserts, is a violation of the fundamental duty to have compassion for all living creatures, a duty that applies to the government as much as to any citizen. Furthermore, Acharya Prashant refers to the Directive Principles of the constitution, which call for fostering a scientific attitude among citizens. He contrasts this with governmental actions that, in his view, push the country further into superstition. He criticizes the practice of honoring individuals who spread superstition with high civilian awards. He challenges the blind reverence for all traditions, asking if harmful practices like Sati and untouchability, which were once traditions, should be brought back. He argues that all traditions are not respectable and questions the meaning of culture if it includes such practices. He concludes by stating that symbols are dangerous when they replace the core substance. A symbol represents something real, and it is the real thing that deserves respect and nourishment. He emphasizes that life is not lived through symbolism alone. If the country is weak, education is failing, and superstition is rampant, then merely hoisting a flag has little meaning. Instead of focusing only on symbols, he urges for real work towards building a strong, beautiful, deep, spiritual, and vibrant India.
