No ‘Us vs Them’ in Hindu Culture Says Mohan Bhagwat
Hindu society’s strength ensures unity, rejects divisive mindset.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasized the unifying power of Hindu society during his address at the annual Vijayadashmi rally in Nagpur, marking the RSS’s centenary. He declared that the concept of “us versus them” has never existed in Hindu culture, highlighting its inherent strength as a foundation for national unity.
Speaking at Reshimbagh, Bhagwat advocated for ‘swadeshi’ (indigenous resources) and ‘swavalamban’ (self-reliance), urging India to prioritize its own interests in global relations. He referenced the Pahalgam attack, where terrorists killed 26 Indians based on their religion, noting that India’s robust response through Operation Sindoor showcased the nation’s resolve, military valor, and societal unity. However, he cautioned that the stances of other nations post-attack revealed the true extent of their friendship with India.
Bhagwat expressed concern over unrest in neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal’s recent Gen Z protests, describing such “so-called revolutions” as ineffective and vulnerable to external exploitation. “We see them as ours, not just neighbors,” he said, stressing the need for democratic change to maintain stability.
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Paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversaries, Bhagwat praised their contributions to India’s freedom struggle and national character. He also highlighted the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj as a symbol of faith and unity.
Addressing domestic challenges, Bhagwat noted that extremist groups like Naxalites have been weakened by government action and societal rejection. He urged the state and society to collaborate on initiatives that foster justice, development, and trust to prevent the rise of such forces.
On global issues, Bhagwat criticized dependency in international trade, pointing to America’s tariff policies under President Donald Trump as a reminder to prioritize self-reliance. He also raised alarms about climate change, calling for revised development policies to protect the Himalayas, which he described as India’s “security wall.”
Reflecting on the RSS’s 100-year journey since its founding in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, Bhagwat reiterated the organization’s commitment to running shakhas (daily gatherings) despite calls to enter politics. Former President Ram Nath Kovind attended the event as the chief guest.
