RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the annual Vijayadashami function on Thursday in Nagpur, emphasizing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s commitment to ‘vyakti nirman’ (character building) over politics during its centenary year. The event, a gathering of swayamsevaks (volunteers), aimed to reflect on the organization’s 100-year journey and its core mission.

Bhagwat firmly stated that despite numerous temptations and invitations to engage in politics, the RSS prioritizes character development and social transformation through its grassroots activities. He declared, “Over the last 100 years, the RSS has been offered temptations and even invited to enter politics. But the Sangh has focused only on running shakhas and character-building,” illustrating the integrity of the organization.

In his address, Bhagwat claimed that reforms in the global order must progress methodically to avert chaos. He proposed that India should showcase a development model grounded in holistic values and inclusive of dharma. “India must present a development model based on a holistic and integrated outlook, rooted in dharma, and offer it to the world,” he emphasized.

Expounding on the concept of dharma, Bhagwat clarified that it transcends mere rituals or traditions, representing a fundamental principle that binds society together. He encouraged the swayamsevaks to exemplify integrity, selflessness, and leadership, which he believes are crucial for social change. Bhagwat stated, “Vyakti nirman is the right path for sustainable social change,” reflecting the resounding experience of RSS members.

Bhagwat acknowledged the vast diversity present in India, encompassing numerous languages, faiths, lifestyles, and traditions. He asserted that this pluralism should be embraced as a source of strength. “All communities, including those who adopted foreign religions, are part of the larger Indian identity,” he remarked, advocating for harmony, mutual respect, and the repudiation of violence.

He criticized the rise of communal discord and hooliganism witnessed in recent times. Bhagwat urged law enforcement agencies to act impartially and without bias. Furthermore, he appealed to society, especially the youth, to remain vigilant and proactive in preserving peace and harmony. “We must intervene whenever necessary to safeguard our social fabric,” he said, calling upon the younger generation to be proactive guardians of their collective identity.

This pivotal address at the Vijayadashami event marked a significant moment in the RSS’s journey as it reaffirmed its long-standing mission of character building. Bhagwat’s emphasis on social harmony amidst India’s diversity and his rejection of political allurements resonate strongly as the RSS charts its path for the next century.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the annual Vijayadashami function on Thursday in Nagpur, emphasizing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s commitment to ‘vyakti nirman’ (character building) over politics during its centenary year. The event, a gathering of swayamsevaks (volunteers), aimed to reflect on the organization’s 100-year journey and its core mission.

Bhagwat firmly stated that despite numerous temptations and invitations to engage in politics, the RSS prioritizes character development and social transformation through its grassroots activities. He declared, “Over the last 100 years, the RSS has been offered temptations and even invited to enter politics. But the Sangh has focused only on running shakhas and character-building,” illustrating the integrity of the organization.

In his address, Bhagwat claimed that reforms in the global order must progress methodically to avert chaos. He proposed that India should showcase a development model grounded in holistic values and inclusive of dharma. “India must present a development model based on a holistic and integrated outlook, rooted in dharma, and offer it to the world,” he emphasized.

Expounding on the concept of dharma, Bhagwat clarified that it transcends mere rituals or traditions, representing a fundamental principle that binds society together. He encouraged the swayamsevaks to exemplify integrity, selflessness, and leadership, which he believes are crucial for social change. Bhagwat stated, “Vyakti nirman is the right path for sustainable social change,” reflecting the resounding experience of RSS members.

Bhagwat acknowledged the vast diversity present in India, encompassing numerous languages, faiths, lifestyles, and traditions. He asserted that this pluralism should be embraced as a source of strength. “All communities, including those who adopted foreign religions, are part of the larger Indian identity,” he remarked, advocating for harmony, mutual respect, and the repudiation of violence.

He criticized the rise of communal discord and hooliganism witnessed in recent times. Bhagwat urged law enforcement agencies to act impartially and without bias. Furthermore, he appealed to society, especially the youth, to remain vigilant and proactive in preserving peace and harmony. “We must intervene whenever necessary to safeguard our social fabric,” he said, calling upon the younger generation to be proactive guardians of their collective identity.

This pivotal address at the Vijayadashami event marked a significant moment in the RSS’s journey as it reaffirmed its long-standing mission of character building. Bhagwat’s emphasis on social harmony amidst India’s diversity and his rejection of political allurements resonate strongly as the RSS charts its path for the next century.