A media seminar was held in Indore to mark the 9th death anniversary of Rajyogi Brahmakumar Omprakash ‘Bhaiji.’ Upendrra Rai, CMD and Editor-in-Chief of Bharat Express attended as the chief guest. The seminar focused on “Spiritual Empowerment for a Clean and Healthy Society – Media’s Role.”
Personal Connection With Brahmakumaris
Rai shared his long association with Brahmakumaris, beginning in 2005. He recalled his first encounter when his daughter was born at BSES MG Hospital in Mumbai, run by Brahmakumaris. He also spoke about his first meeting with Hema Didi at Mount Abu. He mentioned receiving annual invitations to the Brahmakumaris’ conferences since his tenure as Group CEO of Sahara Media at 27.
Spirituality’s Distinction From Religion
Addressing the audience, Rai highlighted the importance of spirituality for humanity. He stressed that spirituality is distinct from religion and religiosity. “Spirituality is essential for all 8 billion people on this planet,” Rai said, adding that it transcends religious boundaries. He discussed India’s role in shaping global spirituality, emphasizing the contributions of figures like Lord Buddha.
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Rai also pointed out that while India influenced global Buddhism, other countries, like China, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, honour this heritage deeply. He linked spirituality to values like self-awareness and inner strength, quoting ancient sages who believed that individuals are their gods and possess infinite possibilities.
Challenges Of Technology
Rai delved into the evolving challenges posed by artificial intelligence. He cited the example of a chess match where AI defeated champion Lee Sedol 10 times. The robot analyzed Sedol’s digital footprint and studied his playing style, outperforming him through speed and strategy.
He also shared an anecdote about Elon Musk. When Musk’s secretary returned from leave, she found her role replaced by a robot named Alia. Musk praised the robot’s efficiency, offering the secretary 10 times her salary to leave her job. Rai noted, “Machines are performing better than humans, creating unprecedented challenges in our times.”
Media’s Responsibility And Historical Lessons
Upendrra Rai emphasized the media’s power and responsibility, recalling a historical example involving Pulitzer Prize-winning journalism. He narrated how Pulitzer’s competitor twisted a story about a Cuban ship sinking, falsely implicating Spain. The fabricated story escalated tensions between the US and Cuba, almost leading to war.
Rai urged media professionals to use their influence responsibly. He stressed that while technology evolves, the human connection rooted in spirituality and ethical journalism must remain intact.
The seminar concluded with a call for integrating spiritual values into media practices to build a healthier and more ethical society.