India, Jan. 30 -- A society must periodically ask itself an uncomfortable question: who deserves respect, and why? Is respect owed by identity alone, or is it earned through conduct, contribution, and moral example?

Respect is not automatic. It is earned through behaviour, values, and contribution, not granted simply because of age, gender, or status. At a collective level, societies choose to honour individuals who enrich public life, strengthen moral conscience, or fill an ethical void.

This is why certain figures are elevated as ideals. They embody values many admire but often struggle to practise. Indian civilisation has long recognised such figures, from Shri Ram, revered as Maryada Purushottam, to Buddha, Mahavir, and Guru Nanak. ...