Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the Indian Constitution as the government's 'holy book', adding that Hinduism is 'a way of life' which encompassed all societies.
"As far as the government is concerned, there is only one holy book, which is the Constitution of India. In fact, if I look at the definition of Hinduism, the Supreme Court of India has given a beautiful definition: it says that Hinduism is not a religion, it is actually a way of life," the Time Magazine quoted the Prime Minister as saying.
"It is a philosophy; it is a way of life which encompasses all societies," he added.
Talking about his personal beliefs, the Prime Minister said that he believes in the concept of 'Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam'.
"If one looks at my own belief, I have grown up with the values that religion is a way of life. We also say 'Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam' - the entire world is one family, and respect for all religions. Those are the values I have grown up with," he said.
On being asked about minority religions and their insecurity about living in India, he said that the unity and the integrity of the country were his top most priorities.
"All religions and all communities have the same rights and it is my responsibility to ensure their complete and total protection. My government will not tolerate or accept any discrimination based on caste, creed, and religion. So there is no place for imaginary apprehensions with regard to the rights of the minorities in India," he added.
