Evening Talks with Sri Aurobindo

21st January, 1939

Disciple : In the political problem of India the States present a great obstacle – particularly to the political unity of the country.

Sri Aurobindo : It can be achieved as Germany did with her many States.

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Disciple : There is a great rush for public career now a days – in fact there is a competition for it. But there are the low tendencies also visible. How to combat this tendency?

Sri Aurobindo : By creating a tradition of respect for character, by throwing out dishonest men from public life. Politicians can lie but not be corrupt.

Parliamentary form of democracy is not necessarily suited to India. As it is, anybody stands as a candidate for election and either buys off votes or persuades them into giving it, or comes up by some trick. But he may not be the true representative. Besides, anybody who comes with majority should not be made a minister; only capable man should be given ministership – the policy may be reserved for the parliament.

Kingship like that of Aundh is best suited to India, where the king is religious minded person, a man of character and intelligence. He looks to the interest of all his subjects. But for that, the Kings must be taught and prepared with hard training. Now, they learn only how to play cricket and drink. But in ancient times, a King's training was very hard.

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