‘Spirituality is impossible in politics’

What does spirituality mean to you?
So many people I know go on pilgrimages or attend ceremonies in temples or listen to saintly discourses and then engage in the dirtiest dealings. That is not spirituality to me; it is hypocrisy. On the other hand, one can appreciate wine, wealth and women and be spiritual, as Krishna showed us. And as he said, spirituality is about performing your duty honestly, with your heart, mind and tongue working uniformly. But in the profession I am, it is impossible to have those three things aligned. Usually there is something in the mind, and something else in the heart and yet a third thing in words. Otherwise people will think you are insane and asking for trouble! So I guess I am not a spiritually correct person right now.

Do you believe you are guided and protected by a superior force?
Absolutely. I must be protected by some force because nothing came to me in life thanks to my family. I had no legacy to inherit, I am a first generation politician and industrialist. I fought for every inch of recognition I have got. I come from the gutters and this is actually my biggest strength. No matter where I am and how low others may try to push me, I will still be higher than that lowest point.
And somewhere, I feel it is all thanks to God’s will.

Source: Indianexpress