Ramana Maharshi says to be backward is not to mean that we are less happy

And once Paul Brunton criticise the Indians for their neglect of material development. To the author's surprise the Maharshi frankly admits the accusation.

“It is true. We are a backward race. But we are a people with few wants. Our society needs improving, but we are contented with much fewer things than your people. So to be backward is not to mean that we are less happy.”

Source: The Maharshi and His Message By Paul Brunton