Rethinking Greatness: Should India Strive for Happiness Over Power?

As I sit here in the rain-soaked streets of Jaipur, Rajasthan, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that led me back to my motherland. A few months ago, I made the decision to return to India, expecting to find a nation that had evolved to meet the standards of the United States, where I had spent many years. In some ways, my expectations were met. India has embraced the conveniences of the West—Amazon delivers to your doorstep, and there is a newfound sense of freedom that comes with a rapidly modernizing society. Yet, despite these advancements, our infrastructure still leaves much to be desired. The sewer lines are inadequate, roads are in disrepair, and traffic is as chaotic as ever. Our cities have grown in scale, but so too have the challenges that come with this expansion.

When India gained independence 77 years ago, we were just beginning to find our footing among the developing nations. We aspired to challenge the global powers of that time, hoping to one day stand among them. Yet, as the years have passed, those same nations continue to dominate the world stage. What, then, has truly changed in these 77 years? And, more importantly, what still needs to change?

Reflecting on my grandparents’ generation, I am struck by how different life was for them. My grandfather enjoyed better health than my father; my grandmother, despite raising ten children, was healthier than my mother. I never witnessed heated arguments in their marriage, nor did I see my parents engage in conflicts. What has shifted in our family dynamics over the past 77 years? Why do we find ourselves in a world where personal ambition often undermines our collective happiness? We call ourselves free and independent, but are we truly?

Today, over 4 million Indians live in the United States, where politicians like Trump and Kamala Harris fiercely vie for their votes. We have become a significant demographic, yet our influence is often used as a tool in political battles rather than as a force for meaningful change. Our economy has grown to $3 trillion, and over 50% of our population has risen above poverty. Literacy rates have improved, with half of our people now able to read and write. Yet, despite these achievements, we still grapple with issues like racial bias—challenges we should have overcome by now.

We all know the answers to these challenges, but there remains one enduring belief that fuels our hope: our love for our motherland. If we can instill this deep affection in the next generation, as per my father’s last advice to me, I believe India will soon rise to become the “Vishwa Guru”—a leader on the global stage.

But as we strive for this ambition, I find myself questioning the very nature of our goals. Why must we carry this drive to become the “Vishwa Guru” or the tallest leader in the world? True happiness lies not in becoming the most powerful or the richest nation, but in becoming the happiest nation in the world. If we chase only growth and power, we may never be able to compete with nations that prioritize the happiness and well-being of their people. Think about what lies ahead for you and future generations. Do you want to leave behind a crumbled legacy of the same ambitions our parents pursued, or do you want to change course toward something better?

As we celebrate India’s Independence Day, let us not only reflect on the progress we’ve made but also on the potential that lies ahead. Let us strive to build a nation where happiness, not just economic growth, is the true measure of success. After all, what greater legacy could we leave for future generations than a nation where the pursuit of happiness is the highest aspiration?

In this pursuit, we can all play a part. By supporting initiatives that foster education, innovation, and entrepreneurship in our country, we help build the foundation for a happier, more prosperous India. The Kaushalm Foundation or Son Of India Foundation is dedicated to this mission, creating opportunities for aspiring youth and uplifting underprivileged communities across India. 

This Independence Day, I urge you to consider contributing to the Foundation. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of many and help us build a brighter, happier future for our nation. 

Happy Independence Day, India! And to Indians worldwide, may we all work together to build a brighter, happier future.

Yours Kunal Jain