Nagpur, 2 October: “The strong, virtuous and organised Hindus can only ensure the unity, integrity, development and security of this country because Hindus are free from the mindset of separation and are all-assimilative. The Hindus are also the promoter and guardian of the liberal ideology of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Hence the Sangh is committed to organise the entire Hindu society because an organised society can only fulfill its duties on its own strength”. This was stated by the Param Pujaniya Sarsanghchalak of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Dr. Mohan Bhagwat ji at Vijayadashmi Utsav of RSS on Reshimbagh Ground in Nagpur on Thursday. It is noteworthy that Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is celebrating its centenary this year. Dr. Mohan Bhagwat ji on this occasion further stressed that it is the duty of the Hindus to make India a prosperous country and one that can make the desired and appropriate contribution to the entire world . On this occasion former President of Bharat Shri Ramnath Kovind, Vidarbha Prant Sanghchalak Shri Deepak ji Tamshettiwar, Sahsanghchalak Shri Shridhar ji Gadge and Nagpur Mahanagar Sanghchalak shri Rajesh ji Loya were present on the dais.
No alternative to swadeshi and self-reliance
Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat ji further said that US import duty policy, based on its own self-interest will force India to revisit certain issues. The world is inter-dependent. However, India must become self-reliant to ensure that this interdependence does not become a burden since there is no alternative to indigeneity and self-reliance, he further said.
Dr. Bhagwat ji also expressed concern over the environmental imbalance resulting from the materialistic and consumerist policies of many countries. He said that in India, due to the same policies, natural disasters such as irregular and unpredictable rainfall, landslides, and floods have increased rapidly in the last three to four years. South Asia's entire water source comes from the Himalayas. The occurrence of these disasters in the Himalayas should be considered a warning signal for India and other countries in South Asia, he further said.
Beware of disruptive forces
Dr. Bhagwat ji, referring to the chaotic situation in the neighboring countries said that in recent years significant turmoil was seen in those countries. The violent outbursts of public anger that led to changes in power in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and most recently, Nepal, are worrying. Forces seeking to incite such unrest are active in India, both domestically and internationally. The breakdown of the government, administration's disconnect with society and the lack of efficient and people-oriented administrative processes are natural and immediate causes of discontent. However, violent outbursts lack the power to bring about desired changes. Only through democratic means such radical changes can be achieved. Otherwise, in such violent situations, global hegemonic forces find opportunities to grind their own axe, Dr Bhagwat said and added that these neighboring countries are connected to India culturally and through people to people contacts. In a way, they are our own family. Hence, peace, stability, progress, happiness and comfort should prevail in these countries because India is also in dire need of their cooperation, he observed.
Current hopes and challenges
Dr. Bhagwat maintained that the present times, on the one hand, strengthen aspirations and hopes of the countrymen and on the other, more clearly highlight the old and new challenges facing them, as well as guide them on the path of duty. He stated that Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, breaking all norms in terms of number of devotees and excellent management, established a global record. As a result, a strong current of faith and unity could be felt throughout India. Tragically, on April 22, 2025, terrorists from across the border killed 26 Indian pilgrims in Pahalgam after asking them about their Hindu identity. This sparked grief and anger among citizens across the country. The Indian government, through planning, delivered a decisive blow in May. Throughout this period, the country witnessed the firmness of the country's leadership, the valour and combat skills of the armed forces, as well as the joyous spectacle of the resilience and unity of society.
Emphasising national security, Dr Bhagwat said while maintaining the policy and spirit of friendship with other countries, India needs to remain increasingly vigilant about its security and continue to enhance its capabilities. These policy actions have also tested which countries are the friends of India and to what extent, among the many countries of the world.
He also stated that the militant Naxalite movement within the country has been largely controlled by the firm action of the government and administration. The root causes of the Naxalite upsurge were exploitation and injustice, lack of development and a lack of sensitivity to these issues on the part of the government and administration. Dr Bhagwat ji laid thrust on a comprehensive plan by the government and administration to establish justice, development, goodwill, compassion and harmony in Naxal-affected areas.
Various forms of media and international trade offer a comforting sense of closeness among the countries. However, there is a significant gap between the pace of progress in science and technology and the pace at which humans adapt to them. Consequently, numerous problems are emerging in the lives of ordinary people. Such problems include ongoing wars and other conflicts, both large and small, the wrath of nature due to environmental degradation, the breakdown of societies and families and the increasing corruption and atrocities in civil life. Efforts have been made to address these issues, but they have failed to halt their growth or provide a complete solution. Therefore, the world is now looking for solutions to these problems from the perspective of India, Dr Bhagwat ji emphasised.
Social and cultural unity
Underscoring the importance of social unity, Dr Bhagwat ji said the most important factor in the development of any country is the unity of its society. India is a land of diversity. Due to its geographical diversity, many diverse languages, sects, lifestyles and various types of food, castes and sub-castes have evolved in India.
Dr. Bhagwat emphasised that India recognises its diversity as its uniqueness and also acknowledges the nature of pride in its own uniqueness. However, this uniqueness should not become a source of division, he warned. This is because, despite all its uniqueness, the people of Bharat are part of a larger society. As a society, country, culture, and nation, Bharat is one. “We must keep in mind that this bigger identity is paramount to us”, he said on this occasion. Consequently, everyone's interactions with each other in society should be harmonious and restrained. People have their own beliefs, ideals, great men and places of worship. Hence it must be guaranteed that these are not disrespected through thoughts, words, or deeds, Dr Bhagwat ji cautioned.
Need to prevent anarchy
He also underscored the need for widespread awareness for maintaining social harmony. He said that following rules, adherance to the law, and behaving in a harmonious manner should become a habit. Taking the law into one's own hands, resorting to hooliganism and violence, whether on small or large matters or simply out of suspicion, is not right. Such incidents are orchestrated with a pre-conceived notion or to demonstrate power to provoke a particular community. Falling into their trap has adverse consequences, both in the immediate and long-term. Hence, it is essential to curb these tendencies. The government and administration should perform their duties as per rules, without bias and without any pressure. However, the virtuous forces of society and the younger generation must also be vigilant and organised and intervene as and when needed, he added.
Necessity of Panch Parivartan
The foundation of country’s unity was described as ‘inherent cultural unity’ by Dr Ambedkar. Bhartiya culture which is unique to its existence since ancient times is all-inclusive. Hence, individuals and groups need to strengthen both personal and national character, Dr Bhagwat ji said adding ‘a clear vision and pride in nation's character is taught in the Sangh shakhas’. The daily shakhas develop individuality, action, leadership, devotion and understanding among the swayamsewaks. Therefore, in the centenary year, the Sangh's endeavor will be to ensure that the work of personality development is demographically widespread across the country and that the five transformation programmes that bring about natural changes in social behaviour- social harmony, family enlightenment, environmental protection, self-awareness, Swadeshi, and adherence to rules, laws, civic discipline, and the Constitution—become pervasive through the example of the swayamsewaks’ conduct. In addition to swayamsewaks, many other organisations and individuals in society are also running similar programmes. Co-operation and coordination of the swayamsewaks is being done with all of them, he informed.
Dr Hedgewar and Dr Ambedkar are my inspiration : Dr Kovind
Chief guest and former president of India Shri Ramnath Kovind ji said, centenary of Rashtriya swayamsevak sangh which carries on its shoulders the pristine glory of ancient Bhartiya heritage is being celebrated globally this year. He further said, the holy land of Nagpur is linked to the sacred memories of creators of modern India. These creators of modern India included two doctors who occupy a prominent place in my life. These two great men are Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar.
The social justice enshrined in the constitution written by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar enabled a person of social and economic background like me to ascend the highest constitutional office of India, while the deep thinking of Dr Hedgewar allowed me to understand the social and national perspective of India in toto and deep within.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama praises Sangh
On the occasion of the centenary of the Sangh, a congratulatory message from the Buddhist religious leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, was read out. In his message, Dalai Lama said, “I consider it my duty to contribute to the promotion of universal human values from a human perspective. As a spiritual person, I try to strengthen the ideals of unity and mutual respect among all faiths. As a scholar of the ancient knowledge traditions of India, it is my fundamental duty to protect and promote the Indian knowledge traditions. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been doing effective work in all these three areas for a long time. This has created a natural sense of respect and admiration for the Sangh in my mind. The Sangh has carved out a unique and important place in this wider movement of renaissance. The Sangh was founded with a sense of selflessness. There is a pure and clear sense of duty in Sangh without expectation of personal gain. Every swayamsewak who joins the Sangh learns to live a life based on these values of purity of mind and means. The centenary journey of the Sangh in itself is rare and unparalleled example of dedication and service. The Sangh has continuously worked to bring people together and has strengthened India both materially and spiritually.
"The Sangh has contributed to educational and social development even in remote and challenging areas of India. It has also provided necessary assistance in disaster-hit areas,"
The event was also attended by dignitaries from India and abroad. Among them were Lieutenant General Rana Pratap Kalita (Retd), managing director of Deccan Industries, Coimbatore, K V Karthik, chairman and managing director of Bajaj Finserv, Sanjiv Bajaj, Swami Shankarananda Giri, Hindu Vidya Mission, Accra, Ghana, Dr Zweli Mkhize, former minister of health, South Africa and former premier of Kwa-Zulu-Natal, Nomon, de Maqungo, economic development professional, South Africa, Bhishma Ransibrahmankul (Phraguru Vamadevamuni), Royal Brahmin, Thai Royal Household, Prof Sophana Srichampa, associate professor Mahidol University, Thailand, Mr Putu Irin Genta Marung, high priest, Bali and secretary Hindu Priests Association, Indonesia, Ida Ayu Purnama, Balinese Hindu priestess, Denpasar, Ni Made Ayu Arisanthi, professional,accounting (private sector), Bali, Jim Geraghty, senior political correspondent, Washinton Post, Megan McArdle, Columnist, Washington Post, Jasson Willick, Columnist, Washington Post, Nicholas Clairmont, editor, Life and Arts Washington Examiner Magazine and former staff, The Atlantic, The American Interest, Lena Bell, possible managing editor, Opinion, Wall Street Journal, Mike Watson, fellow Hudson, foreign policy, Bill Drexel, fellow Hudson, foreign policy and prominent citizens from Nagpur.
Lieutenant General Kalita has led the Eastern Command of the Indian Army. He started his career in June 1984 through the Kumaon Regiment. He has led and guided various military operations. At the global level, he has served as a United Nations observer in Sierra Leone.
Deccan Industries, Coimbatore, led by K. V. Karthik, is a major motor pump manufacturer in the country. He is currently serving as the president of the Indian Pump Manufacturers’ Association. He plays a key role in the export of motor pumps manufactured in India. Chairman and managing director of Bajaj Finserv, Sanjiv Bajaj, is the key driver of the financial services business of the Bajaj Group. Under his leadership, Bajaj Finserv has emerged as a highly respected company in the country. In addition to his role in the corporate sector, he has provided visionary leadership to the Indian industry as the president of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). He is also active in the field of education.
At the outset, Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat ji and chief guest, former President Ramnath Kovind performed shastra pujan (worship of weapons). This was followed by Swagat Pranam, dwajarohan (flag hoisting) and prarthana. Pratyut Pracharam and Pradakshina sanchalan were held after the prarthana. Subsequently demonstration of Niyuddha was done and ghosh (RSS band) was played. The individual song was recited later on and yogasanas were performed. Mahanagar Sanghchalak Shri Rajesh ji Loya made an introductory speech and also proposed a vote of thanks.