Question - Gurudev, what is the place of Dharma in politics and governance? What is meant by Rajdharma?

Gurudev Sri Sri - Dharma has a great place and role in politics. People in power should run the government and the affairs of the society in a righteous way. It is the duty of the King to uphold and sustain Dharma (morality and human virtues) in the society in every possible way. This is what Rajdharma is - to always uphold and sustain Dharma, and to eliminate Adharma (immorality and negativity) in society. And to ensure righteous and holistic progress in society - this is the foremost duty of the King. It is said, 'Dharma rakshati rakshitaha'. It means that Dharma upholds and protects those who abide by and uphold Dharma itself. So the duty of a King also is to protect and uphold Dharma at all times. Dharma does not mean any particular community or section of society. Dharma means that which gives joy and peace in this world, and liberates you in the other world. Dharma provides Abhyudaya in this realm, (i.e., Dharma is that which provides peace and comfort in this life), and bestows one with Nishrayasa in the afterlife (i.e., it liberates one in the afterlife).