Gandhiji’s Values: Mahatma Gandhi, a champion of peace and non-violence, embrassed with the message of the Three Monkeys. He believed in the importance of mindfulness and avoiding negativity to promote harmony and understanding.

Gift and Symbol: It is said that Gandhiji received a set of Three Wise Monkeys figurines as a gift and kept them close. They became a symbol of his philosophy and teachings.

The Mahabharata:In the Indian epic, the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna advises Arjuna on righteous conduct and the path to spiritual enlightenment. In the Shanti Parva (Book of Peace), a section of the Mahabharata, there’s a verse:

मूढानं विनयेत्तस्य संकल्पो यादिसंकल्पः।
अनपेक्ष्यश्चाप्यपेक्ष्यं व्यवहारः समाचरेत्॥

If you try to control a fool, what good will it do? Their intentions will always be foolish. Instead, be independent and act on your own terms, regardless of what others expect.

The Upanishads:

The Upanishads are ancient philosophical texts full of spiritual wisdom. They teach us not to listen to bad things. It says we should control what we hear, avoiding gossip and negativity, and focus on learning. The Katha Upanishad says our mind is like a chariot, and our senses are like horses. If we control our senses, we can stay away from negativity and bad influences.”

The Bhagavt Gita:

तस्माद्यस्य महाबाहो निगृहीतानि सर्वशः।
इन्द्रियाणीन्द्रियार्थेभ्यस्तस्य प्रज्ञा प्रतिष्ठिता।। 3.41

Translation: “Therefore, O Arjuna, one whose senses are restrained from their objects is certainly of steady intelligence.”

This verse from the Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 3, Verse 41, underscores the importance of restraining the senses to maintain steady intelligence and control over one’s actions. By restraining the senses from indulging in negative or harmful sensory experiences, individuals can cultivate inner strength and clarity of mind. This teaching emphasizes the significance of self-discipline and mindfulness in leading a virtuous and balanced life.