This quote is a metaphorical commentary on the profound role that religion plays in Indian society. By likening religion to the “center” and “keynote” of a piece of music, it emphasizes how deeply ingrained religious beliefs and practices are in every aspect of life. The “center” refers to the core or heart, suggesting that religion is the basis from which all other aspects of life emerge. The term “keynote,” in music, is the first and last note in a scale which determines the key of a piece; thus it represents how religion sets the tone for all societal interactions.
Applying this concept to today’s world or personal development, one might argue that everyone has their own ‘religious life’ – not necessarily tied to traditional faith or worship but something they hold at their core as critically important. It could be an individual’s passion for art, commitment to social justice, or dedication towards scientific discovery. This ‘keynote’ forms their perspective and guides their decisions, similar to how traditional religious beliefs guide actions within Indian society.
In terms of personal development, understanding your own ‘keynote’ can help you align your actions with your values more consistently. Just like how an understanding of India’s cultural keynote aids in making sense its societal behaviors; identifying one’s personal keynote can provide insight into one’s motivations and behavior patterns.
In broader societal terms, recognizing this concept can promote tolerance and understanding across different cultures by highlighting that while our ‘centres’ may vary greatly due to cultural differences – they still serve similar guiding functions within our respective societies.