Cultural Foundations of Nationhood Discussed at Nagpur Conference
Swant Ranjan emphasizes the role of culture and traditions in shaping a nation at a national conference in Nagpur.
Swant Ranjan highlights culture and traditions as key to nationhood.
The conference marks the conclusion of RSS's centenary celebrations.
Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Parishad showcases its literary contributions.
During a national conference on Sangh literature held at the Vanamati auditorium in Nagpur, Swant Ranjan, the Akhil Bharatiya Pracharak Pramukh of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), articulated that a nation is defined not just by its geography or its populace but significantly by its culture, collective aspirations, and traditions. This event took place on Saturday and was part of the celebrations marking the end of the RSS's centenary year.
Ranjan elaborated that while the land and its inhabitants form the basic concept of a country, it is the shared culture and traditions that truly shape a nation. He emphasized the importance of understanding the Indian perspective on nationhood, referencing the contributions of RSS founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. According to Ranjan, the essence of the nation can be encapsulated in the concept of 'Chiti', as described by Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, which he referred to as the soul of the nation.
The conference, titled 'Sangh Literature — A Comprehensive Stream of Thought, Poetry Stream — A Hundred Years of National Endeavour', was organized by Sahitya Bharati and sponsored by the Akhil Bharatiya Sahitya Parishad. General Secretary Pawanputra Badal addressed the audience, discussing the intellectual journey of the RSS over the past century, its focus on national consciousness, and its literary contributions, including the distribution of approximately 1,560 books and various educational initiatives.
Participants from various regions, including Vidarbha, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and others, shared insights into activities undertaken during the RSS centenary year. The conference featured sessions on significant topics such as 'Partition' and 'Seva Aapda', presented by distinguished speakers from different states, highlighting the diverse perspectives within the RSS community.
Looking ahead, the RSS and Sahitya Parishad plan to continue their efforts in promoting literature and national consciousness, with further initiatives expected to be announced as they build on the momentum generated during the centenary celebrations.
