Hindu Society, What RSS Wants To Why People Should Join Them: Mohan Bhagwat Elaborates On His Vision In Bengal

Last Updated:February 16, 2025, 17:26 IST

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in Bardhaman: "Those unaware of the Sangh often wonder what it wants. If I had to answer, I would say the Sangh seeks to organise Hindu society because it is the responsible society of the country."

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addresses a public meeting at Talit SAI Complex in east Bardhaman, West Bengal, on Sunday. (PTI)

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday emphasised the importance of uniting the Hindu society as it is “responsible" and believes that unity embodies diversity.

Addressing an RSS programme at SAI Ground in Bardhaman after his 10-day visit in West Bengal, he said, “People often ask why we focus only on Hindu society, and my answer is that the responsible society of the country is Hindu society." “Today is not a special event. Those unaware of the Sangh often wonder what it wants. If I had to answer, I would say the Sangh seeks to organise Hindu society because it is the responsible society of the country," Bhagwat said.

He also stressed the importance of accepting the world’s diversity. “Bharat is not just geography; Bharat has a nature. Some could not live by these values and created a separate country. But those who stayed naturally embraced this essence of Bharat. And what is this essence? It is Hindu society, which thrives by accepting the world’s diversity. We say ‘unity in diversity,’ but Hindu society understands that diversity itself is unity," the RSS chief added.

Bhagwat said that in India, no one remembers the emperors and maharajas, but instead remembers a king who went into exile for 14 years to fulfil his father’s promise — an apparent reference to Lord Ram, and the person who placed his brother’s sandals on the throne, and who handed over the kingdom upon his return.

“These characteristics define India. Those who follow these values are Hindus and they keep the diversity of the entire country united. We will not engage in actions that hurt others. Rulers, administrators, and great men do their work, but society must come forward to serve the nation," he explained.

Speaking on historical invasions dating back to Alexander, Bhagwat noted that “a handful of barbarians, who were not superior in virtue, ruled over India, and the cycle of betrayal within society continues".

He also emphasised that India was not created by the British and argued that the notion of India being disunited was instilled in people by the British.

WHAT IT MEANS

Experts believe Bhagwat’s presence in the state holds immense significance. After meeting representatives of various Sangh organisations in Kolkata and central parts, Bhagwat was also present at the opening of an RSS office in Burdwan.

The rally was held after the Calcutta High Court approved it after the Bengal Police initially refused to grant permission over the use of microphones amid ongoing exams. The nod was granted on the condition that it would not cause any inconvenience to the examinees.

RSS insiders told News18: “The last 10 days have been very important and crucial as the Sangh’s responsibility is to develop society, and a lot of demographic changes have taken place in Bengal."

Over the past 10 years, the number of RSS shakhas has increased in Bengal.

Biblab Roy, Pranta Prachar Pramukh of Dakshin Bango Kolkata, told News18, “We had to go to court for his programme. A lot of our Sangh members were hurt by this. But the presence was twice the number expected. More people should come."

In its centenary year, the RSS is focusing on five points — abolition of the caste system; one language, production, culture; establishing the traditional Hindu family; and civic sense.

Political experts believe that Bhagwat’s message of making the RSS circle bigger is vital before the Bengal polls.

Many believe his statement that “for people whose shops may have been closed by the RSS, who criticise the RSS, it’s important to join and see" is important. This time, there is more thrust on the ground level in Gram Panchayats and wards.

Experts believe Bhagwat’s presence will play an important role on ground, similar to Haryana and Maharashtra elections.

With PTI Inputs

News politics Hindu Society, What RSS Wants To Why People Should Join Them: Mohan Bhagwat Elaborates On His Vision In Bengal