Kanaksi Gokaldas Khimji

Kanaksi Gokaldas Khimji is the Chairman of the Khimji Ramdas Group of Companies in Oman. He was awarded the Sheikh of the Indian Community title by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos of Oman – the only Hindu to ever be thus decorated. He was awarded the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman in 2003.

In the notable history of Ancient India, in times of need, destiny has blessed us with great personalities that have revolutionized our nation. God has gifted us with both spiritually enlightened masters as well as political masterminds who have changed the future of the country, as they are driven by the intense desire to serve their beloved nation.

The more I ponder upon the extraordinary qualities of our Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi, the more I am convinced that the sole reason that this noble soul is amongst us is for the welfare of his countrymen.

An eternal sterling example of a role model of our country, is Swami Vivekananda. His personality was a perfect balance of detachment blended with invaluable love and unmoving loyalty towards the nation.  The Vivekananda Foundation has thus appropriately organised this recognition of our esteemed Shri Narendraji, highlighting a striking resemblance between the name & enduring values espoused by these two great leaders.

The concept of unity in diversity amongst different nations and harmonious co-existence is a natural derivative of Swami Vivekananda’s fundamental ideology of the oneness of Vedanta where – “Everyone is potentially divine.” Similar to the way Swami Vivekananda took this teaching to other parts of the globe, Narendrabhai has been instrumental in offering the benefits of Yoga to the united comity of nations. At home in Bharat, it has manifested in his inspiring slogan of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas”.

A country which is home to such a prodigiously diverse yet emotionally bonded population calls for a leader who is mentally and emotionally grounded. A leader for whom Indian values and inclusive culture is woven in his very own psyche. Shri Narendrabhai depicts a quintessential union of the same. He is a perfect blend with divine virtues on the inside and a far-sighted revolutionary vision on the outside.

For my ancestors and me at Khimji Ramdas, education and women empowerment has always been close to our hearts. Our institutions are built under the same motto of unity in diversity. Respected Narendrabhai had graced the inauguration of our educational institute in Kutch, Mandvi and had inspired us to do more to build a scientific temper amongst the children, with more emphasis on educating the girl child in the hinterlands.

It was a moment of great joy for us when Modiji visited Muscat, Oman of which I am a loyal and proud citizen, albeit for just a brief day. The late HM Sultan Qaboos’ government had accorded him a warm and friendly welcome. During that visit his address at a packed overflowing stadium will always be etched as an enduring memory in the minds of the people here. I was deeply touched when he honoured us by fondly remembering our work in the educational field in Kutch.

Swami Vivekananda’s all inclusive Vedanta philosophy and his practical approach towards the challenges and difficulties is exemplary and is a guiding force for millions. It is the right time for Respected Shri Modiji to bring about a revolution enshrining “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and propel India to greater heights of prosperity and leadership in the world.

I take the opportunity of the 70^th birthday of Shri Narendrabhai Modi to also congratulate Vivekananda Foundation for this commendable initiative & wish them success in their future endeavours.