Understanding Operation Sindoor through the lens of Sanātana Dharma
Ms. Guttula Bhavya Sree
M.A. Vedic Studies
Dept of Sanskrit and Vedic Studies
Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence,
Nallakaderanahalli
Karnataka
Co-Author
Dr. Naveen Bhat
HOD, Dept of Sanskrit and Vedic Studies
Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence,
Kalaburagi,
Karnataka
Abstract:
This paper aims to offer a new dimension to the recent historic, unprovoked tragedy in India, which claimed innocent lives. Efforts are being made to interpret the scenario through the lens of the ancient Indian way of living – Sanātana Dharma, with substantiated references. Undoubtedly, the rhetorical question posed by the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru – “Who lives if India dies? Who dies if India lives?” still holds true. With every setback, India comes back stronger. Operation Sindoor is one such example.
The four objectives outlined in the paper primarily focus on justifying the execution of Operation Sindoor through the perspective of Sanātana Dharma. A strong attempt has been made to revive the values embedded in Bhārat’s culture and its rich heritage. The author’s efforts aim to bring awareness, especially among the youth, to the glorious treasure we possess as Indians: Sanātana Dharma.
Keywords:
Sindoor, Sanātana Dharma, Ancient seers, Punishment, Concern.
Introduction:
The lofty ideals drawn from our ancient Indian scriptures, have always placed Bhārat apart from the rest of the world. Tracing back to the primeval times of history, where prayers were made for the entire creation,
सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः ।
सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु मा कश्चिद्दुः खभाग्भवेत् ।[1]
Every challenge has been taken as an opportunity to strive for best. Whether it was the setback of Chandrayaan-2’s failure, which led to a successful landing on the Moon’s surface, through the mission Chandrayaan-3 on August 23, 2023; making India the first country to land near the lunar south pole.[2] or the COVID-19 Vaccine Maitri where India supplied vaccines to over 101 countries even while managing its own needs.[3]
The recent Pahalgam attack was no different, while the massacre claimed 26 innocent civilian lives. Bhārat responded to the situation with a wiser vision. Every effort of Bhārat today is a conscious step toward the vision of Vikṣit Bhārat – a developed, self-reliant, and culturally rooted nation, ultimately paving the way for India to become a Viśvaguru, a guiding force for the world.
Objectives:
- To understand the term Sindoor: from its secular, cultural usage to its deeper spiritual significance.
- To emphasize that moral punishment is intended for correction, not harm; except applied unethically.
- To highlight Bhārat’s concern & support for the 26 lives & its families despite huge population.
- To present the selflessness of ancient seers in their prayers for the welfare of all, leaving no one behind
- Understanding the Term “Sindoor”- Secular to Spiritual:
The term Sindoor is a Sanskrit word which translates to Vermilion. It is a red chemical powder, often used in Hindu religion by married women on their parting of hair & between the brows, symbolizing auspiciousness & martial status. The Indian Government termed this military action as Operation Sindoor to demonstrate India’s strong willpower against terrorism and the capabilities & determination of the Armed Forces, which ensured justice to the innocent families who lost their loved ones at the hands of anti-India and terrorist organizations on the Indian soil[4]. While the nation takes pride in supporting all the women who have lost their identity with Sindoor, there is a another facet that truly adds meaning to this approach.
“सिन्धुं मदं राति नाशयति इति सिन्दूरः ” – That which destroys the ocean of ego is sindoor.
The deeper understanding of this term can be comprehended with several texts.
Firstly, the Dyana ślokaof “Lalitā Sahasranāma”, describes Goddess Lalitā as
सिन्दूरारुणविग्रहां त्रिनयनां माणिक्यमौलीस्फुरत्
translating into I meditate upon the radiant red form of Goddess. The color red symbolizes Śakti- the dynamic feminine energy that powers the universe. In color psychology, red signifies power, passion, and energy. It’s the color that commands attention and vitality. The red of Śrī Lalitāmbikā also represents transformation and purification, connecting with the fire element. Traditional sindoor (vermilion), made from turmeric, lime, and mercury, absorbs the sun’s rays, believed to have purifying effects on the body and mind. This aligns with the transformative power of fire, symbolized by Devī’s radiant red form. Interestingly, the color red is associated with the Mūlādhāra Cakra, the base chakra in the Kuṇḍalinī energy system. When we visualize Devī in her red form, we tap into this dormant energy, inviting it to rise and elevate our consciousness[5].
Secondly, the 44th śloka of Soundarya Lahari by Śrī Ādi Śaṅkarācārya, describes Goddess Lalitā as
वहन्ती सिन्दूरं प्रबलकबरीभारतिमिरद्विषां बृन्दैर्बन्दीकृतमिव नवीनार्ककिरणम्॥
Meaning the vermilion adorned on your parted hair appears like the Sun risen at dawn. The deep red hue signifies her boundless energy, auspicious presence and Her benevolence. The sacred vermilion nesttled between the flowing darkness of her hair mirrors the rising Sun, dispersing the darkness and illuminating the cosmos with its fiery glow. In reverence Sri Shankara prays that the auspiciousness of this vermilion may bestow the liberation upon devotees, freeing them from the relentless cycle of birth & death. And leading them towards eternal bliss of union[6]. Also, the darkness of the hair is further explained as māyā, which also originates from Her. Māyā is inherent in everyone and can be dispelled only by surrendering to Her. The will to surrender is initiated by the vermilion on Her face[7].
Therefore, Sindoor not only holds special importance, as reflected in its name being used for a military operation, but it also carries a deeper spiritual meaning – symbolizing the transcendence of the mirage of ignorance and the pursuit of one’s highest potential.
- To emphasize that moral punishment is intended for correction, Not harm; Unless it is applied unethically:
Prayers of the ancient Hindu seekers have been to remove hostile feelings among people – मा विद्विषावहै. Non violence has long been a way for many Indians. It is regarded to be one of the highest practices both morally and spiritually. The MahaBhārata says,
अहिंसा परमो धर्मः सर्वप्राणभृतां स्मृतः ।
तस्मात्प्राणभृतः सर्वान्न हिंस्याद्ब्राह्मणः क्वचित् ॥ १२ ॥
Ahimsa (non-violence) is regarded as the highest dharma for all living beings. Therefore, a Brahmana (or a noble person) should never harm any living creature under any circumstances[8]. Great reverence is shown in the practice of not harming the truthful & the people who practice statute. Hence, the same text further cautions,
अहिंसकानि भूतानि दण्डेन विनिहन्ति यः ।
आत्मनः सुखम् अन्विच्छन् स प्रेत्य सुखी भवेत् ॥
He who harms non-violent beings using punishment, while seeking happiness for himself, will never find happiness after death[9].
However, given the situation where immoral behaviour is on the rise due to individual ideologies or the surge of selfish instincts in society, corrective measures become necessary. Kautilya in his book Arthaśāstra mentions a four-step strategy to discipline an individual. They are sāma dāna bheda daṇḍaḥ.
Firstly, sāma involves gently persuading someone to change their behavior through polite advice.
Secondly, Dāma method offers rewards or incentives to encourage good behavior.
Thirdly, Bheda involves using threats or warnings to correct behavior.
Lastly, daṇḍa, as a last resort, involves punishment to enforce discipline.
Here, It is very important to understand that punishment is not meant to humiliate or dehumanize a person. Rather, it is intended to regulate their wrongdoing and help them understand the consequences of their actions. In some cases, verbal communication may be sufficient to control the damage; in others, use of strict physical discipline may serve as a corrective measure. When all other means fail, termination might become necessary. Śrī Kṛṣṇa in the 10th chapter of Bhaghavad Gītā declares, “ दण्डो दमयतामस्मि ” – of the punishers; I am daṇḍaḥ, the rod, which is the means of controlling the lawless[10]. King/the ruler/the governing body of olden days were principled to the ideas of Raja Dharma which teaches to govern with justice, fairness, and integrity, prioritizing the welfare of the people above personal gain[11]. In the same lines, Manu Smriti highlights the consequences of not punishing the deserved person of punishment will lead to a disastrous society, as it leads to unfathomable chaos.
अधर्मदण्डनं लोके यशोघ्नं कीर्तिनाशनम् ।
अस्वर्ग्यं च परत्रापि तस्मात् तत् परिवर्जयेत् ॥
The king, punishing those who do not deserve to be punished, and not punishing those who deserve to be punished, attains great ill-fame and goes to hell[12]. If a culprit is free without being punished, it encourages others to follow him and commit more crimes. Similarly if an innocent is punished wrongly, that sends a message of incompetence of the ruler. On the account of these acts the ruler/governing body not only loses faith in his subjects, but also faces punishment in hell as stated by Manu Smriti & Yagnavalkya Smriti. The unrighteous punishment destroys the heaven, the glory and the worlds of the king. But the proper punishment procures him victory, glory and heaven(Yagnavalkya Smriti Chapter 13- śloka357).
- To Highlight Bhārat’s concern & support for the 26 lives & its families despite its huge population:
The cream of Bhārat’s pride is no doubt its culture. As Indians we believe that the letter C in culture stands for concern – concern for all. Having one of the world’s largest population, it cannot always be a matter of concern for every individual among billions of population. However, it is a testament to Bhārat’s values that the government extended heartfelt support to the 26 bereaved families. Not only did the state provide financial assistance, but it also sent a stern message of what it means to attack people of Bhārat.
Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of the persons deceased in the Pahalgam terror attack.The CM said that all arrangements for the transport of the victims to their native places have been made[13]. Apart from this, assistance from the various central & state governments also have officially been made. If only the decision makers of the nation think 26 number is too less in comparison to 1.46 B population[14], Operation Sindoor would not have come into existence. The country authoritatively take this bold decision because we truly believe in the idea of vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam – whole world is one family. If we are ready to embrace the whole world as family, how could we leave 26 of our own family members unperturbed?
The families of the victims have lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their swift and decisive action, with many feeling that the Operation Sindoor brought justice to their loved ones, who truly deserved. Thanks to the Indian Army, they have reiterated our faith in the government’s commitment to ensuring security and holding those responsible accountable for the tragic loss. Operation Sindoor represents not just a military strike, but a powerful message that the government is committed to securing justice for those lost in the attack[15]. Hence, in author’s opinion, it is not merely the numerical count of victims that should influence the decisions of a nation’s policymakers, but rather the recognition of the impact that each innocent life lost has on the families and communities that are depended upon them.
- To present the selflessness of ancient seers in their prayes for the welfare of all, leaving no one behind
As mentioned throughout the paper, the virtuous ancient seers have always prayed for the welfare of creation. They haven’t been picky in their choices, restricting their devotion only to their vicinity, state, or nation. Samasta Lokāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu – let all the worlds be happy, was always their profound intentions which ensured the well-being of everyone leaving none behind. In the words of the global humanitarian, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai[16] –
“We cannot have a happy individual in an unhappy family;
We cannot have a happy family in an unhappy society;
We cannot have a happy society in an unhappy country;
We cannot have a happy country in an unhappy world”
With such ideas, humanity should be able to find way to resolve mutual differences among communities and nations without resorting to violence and bloodshed. In fact, in this age of fatal weapons of mass destruction, the only way to save our planet is the way of instilling love, peace and non-violence into people’s heart & mind. Thus, bringing back this sensitivity in people with these potent values can only be the most compelling need of our times.
Conclusion:
The progress of science and technology in modern times have simplified our living but has complicated our life! The current situation of the world demonstrates that knowledge without wisdom put in practice can be catastrophic. Hence, happiness of the men, achieved at the cost of other humans & other species can never last long and further, it only devastates the present scenario of the society. As quoted by George Bernard Shaw, “ On the face of India are the tender expressions which carry the mark of the creator’s hand ” And what are those tender expressions which carry the mark of the creator’s hand ? It is the way of Vasudhaiva Kuṭumbakam – the whole world is one family. It is the way of Samasta Lokāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu – May happiness reign in all the worlds. It is the way of Love All Serve All. This is the way of Sanātana Dharma.
Acknowledgment:
My foremost gratitude to the Almighty for enabling me to put all my thoughts into words. If not for the deep conviction of the nation’s policymakers in these noble ideas, Operation Sindoor would not have made top headlines globally. Hence, I extend my respects to all of them- admiring whom I was able to make this paper possible.
My sincere thanks to my guide, Mr. Naveen Bhat sir, who has been a pillar of support, helping me complete this work flawlessly.
My gratitude extends to my parents and the publication team for providing a platform to express my views.
References:
- Manusmriti – Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi by Ganganatha Jha | 1920 | 1,381,940 words | ISBN-10: 8120811550 |
- Yagnavalkyasmriti – Yajnavalkya smriti. With the commentary of Vijnanevara called the Mitaksara and notes from the gloss of Balambhatta. Translated by Rai Bahadur Srisa Chandra Vidyarnava – Page no:426, śloka357.
- Sanātana Dharma for Universal Welfare, BN Narasimha Murthy, Sri Sathya Sai Premamrutha Prakashana®, 2020.
- Complete Chankya Neeti, Viswamitra Sharma, Manoj Publications,2008.
- Spoorthipadam, B.S.Sharma, Akshanga Publications, 2018.
[1] Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah – In Sanskrit, English with Translation, Meaning and Notes
[4] Press Release:Press Information Bureau
[5] Invoking Devi’s Grace – Meaning of Dhyana śloka1
[6] Soundarya Lahari – Sri Sathya Sai Premamrutha Prakashana
[7] Soundarya Lahari – Verse 44
[8] MahaBhārata Verse 1.11.12 [Sanskrit text]
[9] MahaBhārata Verse 13.114.5 [Sanskrit text]
[10] Bhagavad Gītā Chapter 10 – Verse 38 – 10.38 dando damayatamasmi
[11] Rajadharma And Rakshadharma: Key Aspects Of Governance And Protection In Sanatana Dharma – AdikkaChannels
[13] J&K govt announces ₹10 lakh ex-gratia for families of Pahalgam terror attack victims –
[14] India Population (2025) – Worldometer
[15] ‘My son’s sacrifice didn’t go in vain’: What did families of Pahalgam terror attack victims say about Operation ṣindoor? | Latest News India – Hindustan Times
[16] Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence | Advocacy for Equal Opportunities – Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai