‘Bharat and Hindu are synonymous,’ says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat
Explaining the basic philosophy of RSS, Bhagwat said that the organization was not created to oppose anyone or harm anyone, but to focus on Vyakti Nirman (individual character building) and contribute to making Bharat a Vishwaguru.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday addressed an eminent gathering of intellectuals, academics, editors, writers and entrepreneurs during his visit to Assam as part of RSS’s centenary celebrations. In an interactive session, he elaborated on the Sangh’s civilizational vision, contemporary national concerns and ongoing programs in the Northeast, a statement said.
Bhagwat emphasized that all those who are proud of Bharat and love their nation are Hindus, regardless of their personal style of worship. He explained that Hindu is not just a religious term, but a civilizational identity based on cultural continuity over thousands of years. “Bharat and Hindu are synonymous,” he said, adding that India does not need an official declaration to become a Hindu Rashtra. Civilizational morality already reflects this.
Explaining the basic philosophy of RSS, Bhagwat said that the organization was not created to oppose anyone or harm anyone, but to focus on Vyakti Nirman (individual character building) and contribute to making Bharat a Vishwaguru. He urged people to understand the Sangh by visiting a Shakha rather than adhering to preconceived narratives. “The methodology of uniting Bharat in the midst of diversity is called RSS,” he said.
He spoke in detail about five basic social transformations: Panch Parivartan: social harmony, Kutumb Prabodhan (family awakening), civil discipline, self-reliance and protection of the environment. Among these, he paid special attention to strengthening the institution of the family, encouraging each family to preserve the stories of their ancestors and instill responsibility and cultural pride in the younger generation. He added that icons like Lachit Borphukan and Srimanta Shankardeva should inspire all Indians even though they were born in a particular state, but they are our national icons.
Addressing concerns about demographic changes and cultural preservation in Assam, Bhagwat called for trust, vigilance and a firm commitment to one’s land and identity. He talked about issues such as illegal infiltration, the need for a balanced population policy, including a three-child norm for Hindus, and the importance of resisting divisive religious conversions. He also advised responsible use of social media, especially among young people.
Bhagwat, Dr. Recalling Hedgewar’s incarceration in the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement and the contributions of numerous Swayamsevaks across the country during the Quit India Movement in 1942, the RSS emphasized the important role of Swayamsevaks in the freedom struggle. Calling the Northeast a shining example of Bharat’s unity in diversity, he affirmed that our diversity is a reflection of the unity that exists within us. Lachit Borphukan and Srimanta Shankardeva are not only of regional importance but also of national importance. The session concluded with Bhagwat urging all sections of society, especially the eminent citizens present, to work collectively and selflessly for nation building as the Bharat Sangh enters the next century of its journey.
(Except for the title, this news has not been edited by the DNA team and is published from ANI news agency).
