Bhubaneswar: Orissa High Court judge Justice Chittaranjan Dash advised students to rise above the rat race and focus on values which can not only shape their lives but also impact the society.
“The rat race, the endless comparisons, the fear of being left behind, can crush even the strongest hearts. But I tell you, trust the universe, do your work sincerely, walk your path honestly. The universe conspires to help those who act with purity and perseverance,” Justice Dash said while addressing students and faculty members at the Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) Deemed to be University (SOA) here on Saturday.
Justice Dash urged students to follow the powerful ‘mantra’ of three D’s — Discipline, Dedication and Destination.
“Your grandest dreams will remain only dreams without discipline which keeps you focused amidst distractions. Dedication is the invisible force that keeps you moving towards your goal. And your destination decides where you want to go, not just professionally, but personally, ethically and spiritually,” he said.
Emphasising on ethics, Justice Dash said though studying a subject was important, it was not everything. “Your ethics must be your guiding star,” he said, adding that a learned lawyer without ethics might win cases but loses out on humanity.
“Ask yourself not just ‘what I will become?’ but ‘who I will become?” he said.
Pointing out that money was important, he said more money does not necessarily mean more happiness.
“Real success is found in the solace of your heart. No work is big or small. What matters is the satisfaction with which you do it,” he said, observing that a humble teacher, a sincere farmer, an honest entrepreneur could live a life richer than that of a billionaire.
“You may become globally marketable and that is wonderful. You may get jobs in New York, London or Tokyo which is an achievement. But remember market value is not life value. You are a living being with a soul, a conscience and a purpose. Enhance your skills but nourish your spirit as well,” Justice Dash said.
“When you truly believe in your dreams, not casually but with a deep conviction, your mind starts working in ways you cannot consciously control,” Justice Dash said.
Justice Dash and his wife Abhipsa Dash were felicitated on the occasion.
SOA vice-chancellor Prof. Pradipta Kumar Nanda presided over the event, which was also addressed by Dean of SOA National Institute of Law (SNIL) Prof. S.A.K. Azad and Dean (Students’ Welfare) Prof. Jyoti Ranjan Das.
