One of the challenges of democracy is that it often distracts everyone—ordinary citizens, the middle class, and the upper class alike. Democracy prioritizes the mandate of votes over qualities, capacity, and character. In democracy, it is the number of votes that counts. By contrast, in monarchies, ordinary people had no role in choosing the top leader. Of course any form of government does not matter.As Will Durant aptly states, “Only fools would dispute over forms of government.”

As responsible citizens, we cast our votes with the principles of dharma and cultural nationhood in mind. The results of the Maharashtra election teach us several important lessons:

1.Unity Beyond Division

The Marathi Manus (Marathi people) rejected attempts to divide communities—whether it was dividing Marathas from other groups or promoting familial ties over performance. As Will Durant observes, “Civilization is not inherited; it has to be learned and earned by each generation anew.” The Marathi Manus embraced this wisdom by looking beyond divisive narratives.

2.A Lesson for Leaders

The people also sent a strong message to victorious party leaders, especially at the top. It was not personal charisma but the collective hope of Sanatanis (those upholding dharma) that drove the mandate, envisioning growth in sanskars (values), sanskriti (culture), and samaj (society). If united, this collective can change the outcome within six months. (loka sabha results in Maharashtra was different).

3.Unity in Diversity

The Marathi Manus recognized the importance of unity—not as Marathas, Kumbhis, Dalits, OBCs, or Brahmanas, but as a cohesive community. They prioritized a collective Marathi identity over sub-caste or sectional divides.

4.Cultural and Dharmik Realization

Inspired by leaders like Shivaji Maharaj, Sant Tukaram, and Samarth Ramdas Swami, the Marathi Manus realized that their dharmik culture could not be upheld by secular, atheistic, liberal, or family-centered parties. Growth and prosperity took precedence over linguistic or regional pride alone. As Karl Marx noted, “History is economics in action.” However, the people understood that culture and values must complement economic progress.

5.Choosing the Least Corrupt

The people of Maharashtra chose the least corrupt option, hoping such leaders could be guided by cultural values to contribute meaningfully to society, economy, and spirituality. As history reminds us, “Sin has flourished in all ages.” History is often a record of crimes, follies, and misfortunes. However, if leaders sincerely strive for dharmik values, as Bhishma emphasized in the Mahabharata, they can transform adversity into positive change, even in difficult times.

Finally, as a dharmik civilization, we do not rely solely on politicians to lead us. Instead, we hope they perform their duties diligently while we continue to fulfill our own responsibilities. It is crucial to stay informed and alert without becoming consumed by politics.

– Govinda Das (ISKCON Member)