Raja Bhoj's Architect Shloka Shared by PM Modi on Social Media

New Delhi: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a subhashit on social media that carries a message on blending scriptural conduct with a scientific approach.

The Prime Minister posted a Sanskrit shloka: 'Shastram karma tatha prajna sheelam kriyayanvitam, Lakshyalakshanayuktarthashastranishtho naro bhavet.' The Hindi meaning of the verse is that real progress becomes possible only when scriptural knowledge, wisdom, ethical conduct and working efficiency come together.

The post stated that when a person adopts conduct consistent with the scriptures, along with a scientific outlook and effective implementation in pursuit of his goals, he opens the path to sustainable and meaningful development.

The celebrated verse has been taken from 'Samarangana Sutradhara', an architectural text authored by Raja Bhoj, the distinguished ruler of Malwa. In the second shloka of the 44th chapter of this work, the king outlines the qualities and traits of a good architect.

The shloka says that a skilled architect should have experience of practical work. He should possess a sharp mind and good judgment. Alongside this, his conduct should be exemplary and his commitment to work should be complete.

Raja Bhoj explained that a person who understands the meaning of goals and the characteristics, or principles, of the scriptures, and remains faithful to them, is the one truly capable of becoming an architect.

The central message is that a genuinely knowledgeable person is one whose learning, intellect, character and work are all aligned. Such a person follows the practical and ethical rules of life while advancing towards his goals.

In essence, the verse calls on individuals to remain dedicated to the purpose of their lives, to follow the right ways of achieving it, and to abide by the practical rules of conduct drawn from arthashastra and nitishastra.