What is Ahimsa? A teenager’s exploration https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/what-is-ahimsa-a-teenagers-exploration-7216071/
It is a broad concept, and one which can address the growing polarisation in the world today.
The power of non-violence has been asserted repeatedly over the last 74 years across the world. The most enduring symbol of the anti-CAA protests remains the Shaheen Bagh sit-in, where hundreds of people, led by the brave women of Delhi, protested peacefully for 101 days; where art, creativity and ahimsa were the languages of opposition. On the other side of the world, pictures of candlelit Black Lives Matter protests became a powerful symbol of resistance in the face of abject brutality, and many American cities now house BLM murals.
But what is ahimsa? Many might plainly say “not being violent”. Others may argue it is “Respecting all living beings”. Some may take it to the next level, where you’ll hear “Being truthful to oneself and not causing harm to anyone”. Every time you ask the question, you will receive a different and more developed answer, because the most significant aspect of ahimsa is that it is an evolving discipline.
With the exploration of ahimsa expanding, new interpretations are coming to light and adding to the myriad of opinions that make it such a unique, multifaceted concept.