In New Delhi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed an event marking the upcoming release of "Shatak", a film chronicling the organization's 100-year journey. During his address on Sunday, Bhagwat likened the RSS's growth to a tree emerging from a seed, emphasizing that while the organization evolves and adopts new forms, its fundamental essence remains unchanged.
Bhagwat explained that while the RSS is celebrating its centenary, people perceive it as changing as it evolves and takes on new forms. However, he clarified that it is not actually changing but simply unfolding gradually. Drawing a parallel to nature, he stated that just as a sprout emerges from a seed, and a mature tree with fruits and flowers appears different, these forms are distinct, yet the tree remains fundamentally the same as the seed from which it grew.
Bhagwat also remembered the founder of the RSS, Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, describing him as a born patriot who dedicated his life to the service of the nation. He stated that the Sangh and Doctor Saheb are synonymous terms.
Bhagwat's comments come at a time when the RSS, founded in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, is completing 100 years. The organization, which started as a small shakha in Nagpur, has expanded across the entire country. RSS volunteers can be found everywhere, from Kashmir to Mizoram and from Andaman to Kutch.
Bhagwat has also touched upon the importance of social harmony and inclusivity. Speaking at a Hindu Sammelan in Chhattisgarh, he urged people to rise above divisions based on caste, language, and wealth, emphasizing that the entire nation belongs to everyone. He called for an inclusive approach within society and highlighted the need to remove discrimination from the mind as the first step toward true harmony. Bhagwat also stressed that public facilities like temples, water bodies, and cremation grounds should be open to every Hindu. He added that every effort should be made through dialogue and understanding and insisted that unity should never involve conflict.
In recent years, Bhagwat has addressed various contemporary issues, including the organization's views on Hindu identity, minority communities, and reservations. He has emphasized that the RSS has evolved with time, taking into account newer sensibilities, but its core beliefs remain intact.
The RSS chief's statements are closely watched as they provide direction to the country's largest Hindu organization, which in turn influences public policy and ignites debates on political messaging. Bhagwat has also made it clear that there is no retirement age in the RSS, suggesting that senior leaders could continue in office beyond a certain age.
As the RSS approaches its centenary, it faces the challenges of navigating disruptive digital technologies, generational change, and international scrutiny. While the Hindutva narrative has gained traction, Bhagwat's challenge is to maintain the organization's approach amidst various forces.
