Destiny and fate – The Economic Times

‘The best way to predict the future is to create it.’ This famous quote embodies the essence of our ability to shape our own destinies. Rather than passively waiting for events to unfold, we must take an active role in crafting a future that aligns with our goals and aspirations. By proactively pursuing our dreams, striving for excellence and working diligently, we can transcend our limitations and truly become masters of our own fate. It is a powerful reminder that our actions and choices today have the potential to shape the course of our future, empowering us to create a life of fulfilment and success.

It’s important to discern the difference between destiny and fate. Destiny is what one creates. Fate is ordained. In other words, destiny is a part of fate. Raghupati Sahay, a.k.a. Firaq Gorakhpuri, said, ‘Taqdeer toh qaumon ki hua karti hai/ Ek shakhs ki qismat mein taqdeer kahan’ – Fate belongs to communities and civilisations/ The destiny of an individual is different from fate.

We’re all architects of our destinies and can challenge fate and its seemingly inexorable ways. By realising our potential – khudi in Persian – we can reach the acme of greatness. To quote Iqbal, ‘Khudi ko kar buland itna ke har taqdeer se pahle/ Khuda bande se khud poochhe, bata teri raza kya hai’ – enhance yourself to a level that god should ask you, what do you want. What one creates today blossoms tomorrow like a new universe. Tomorrow hinges on today’s diligence, dedication and dynamism. Nothing is preordained. We ordain our future and create an exciting tomorrow.