Jeevan Pranvan: Unfolding Shri Mukul Kanitkar’s Vision for a Viksit Bharat by 2047

Reviewed by: Prof. Madan Mohan Goel

I am privileged to have received a copy of Banaye Jeevan Pranwan (Make Life Vibrant) from Shri Mukul Kanitkar (a great son of Bharat)  himself before its official release by the Honorable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, at Nagpur on January 17, 2025. The event graced by the esteemed presence of Sri Sri Abhinav Shankar Bharti Mahaswami, the 72nd Peethadish, Srimad Jagadguru Shankaracharya.

Upon reading this concise yet profound book comprising 10 chapters across 98 pages, I was struck by its informative and thought-provoking exploration of life’s purpose, guided by values and spirituality. Each chapter offers invaluable insights, as summarized below:

Chapter Highlights

1. Pran Vidya Parichaye–Introduction to the Knowledge of Life Energy: An overview of PranVidya, the ancient Indian understanding of life force, foundational to holistic living.
2. Pran Kaya Hai–The Essence of Life Energy: This chapter explains how Pran (life energy) sustains all forms of existence.
3. Pran Ka Mul Stotra – Surya–The Sun as the Source of Life Energy: Discusses the Sun’s role as the ultimate provider of Pran, nurturing all life forms.
4. Srishti Me Abhivyakta Pran–Manifestation of Pran in the Cosmos: Explores how Pran manifests across the universe, connecting all living beings.
5. Pranabhuti – Vyan Pran The Vital Energy System (Vyan Pran): Delves into Vyan Pran, which governs circulation and connectivity within the body and mind.
6. Bhartiya Sanskriti – Pran Adharit Indian Culture Rooted in Pran: Examines how Indian traditions and practices are deeply influenced by the philosophy of Pran.
7. Phalsruti Benefits of Practicing PranVidya: Highlights the holistic outcomes of integrating PranVidya into daily life.
8. Pran Vidya Parichaye Abhyas Theory and Practice of PranVidya: Combines theoretical understanding with practical application for a balanced life.
9. Suchnayein– Information and Insights: Provides essential knowledge and insights into the philosophy and practice of PranVidya.
10. Upsanhar Conclusion: Reflects on the teachings, emphasizing the importance of applying PranVidya to achieve harmony and purpose.

These chapters collectively provide a comprehensive understanding of PranVidya, weaving together philosophy, science, and spirituality.

In the quest to make life lively—Jeevan Pranvan—the Needonomics School of Thought offers a guiding light rooted in simplicity, values, and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Shri Mukul Kanitkar, a great son of India, this philosophy presents a roadmap to transform Bharat into a Viksit (developed) nation by 2047. We need to understand, analyze, interpret and adopt the  profound work which resonates deeply with the essence of Indian ethos, advocating a balance between material prosperity and spiritual enrichment.

Essence of Jeevan Pranvan

The book’s central theme, Jeevan Pranvan, is about living vibrantly by harmonizing with one’s inner self, society, and environment. Shri Mukul Kanitkar’s vision calls for value-based living, ensuring that joy and meaning are derived from life’s simple yet profound experiences.

Gita-inspired Needonomics: A Call to Simplicity

Needonomics School of Thought advocates a paradigm shift from consumerism to need-based economics. It underscores the importance of discerning needs from wants, enabling individuals and society to focus on essentials that contribute to holistic well-being. This approach aligns seamlessly with India’s ancient wisdom, which prioritizes sustainability and equity over excessive accumulation and waste.

A Book for All Generations

Shri Mukul Kanitkar’s book is a treasure trove of wisdom, offering practical lessons that transcend age, profession, and background. It inspires readers to embrace their duties, nurture relationships, and contribute positively to society. As we aim for a Viksit Bharat by 2047, this book emerges as a crucial guide to navigate the challenges of modernity while preserving our timeless values.

Bharat’s Path to Development

The journey toward Viksit Bharat  requires more than material progress. It demands ethical governance, sustainable development, and active citizenship. The principles of Jeevan Pranvan and Needonomics equip us to achieve this by fostering a culture of simplicity, service, and self-awareness.
Call to Action

To realize the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, the lessons from Shri Mukul Kanitkar’s book must be read, re-read, and implemented. The Needonomics philosophy, rooted in spiritually guided materialism, offers solutions to many of today’s challenges. India’s spiritual strength is its greatest asset, and by embracing an evolutionary approach, we can lead the world toward sustainable progress.

Conclusion

Banaye Jeevan Pranwan is a treasure trove of wisdom, urging us to make life vibrant through simplicity, gratitude, and purpose. It is a clarion call for India to rise as a global leader, grounded in its values and traditions, while embracing modernity with a balanced perspective.

The reviewer is propounder of the Needonomics School of Thought and has served as Vice-Chancellor (Thrice) including RGNIYD (Government of India), Jagan Nath University, and Starex University. He is a superannuated Professor from Kurukshetra University.