Mohan Bhagwat Emphasizes Unity at RSS Centenary in Nagpur
At the RSS centenary celebrations, Mohan Bhagwat honors historical figures and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and unity.
Mohan Bhagwat highlighted contributions of Sant Ravidas and others during the RSS centenary.
The event marked 100 years of the RSS's efforts towards social harmony and national identity.
Prominent guests included Maharashtra's Chief Minister and former Vice President.
Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), delivered a powerful address during the centenary Vijayadashami celebrations held at Reshimbagh ground in Nagpur on Tuesday. He reflected on the significant contributions of historical figures such as Sant Ravidas, Swami Shraddhanand, and Swami Lakshmanananda Saraswati, emphasizing their roles in promoting faith, social harmony, and the preservation of religious values. Bhagwat asserted that the teachings and sacrifices of these leaders resonate with the RSS's mission to foster self-awareness and strengthen India's unity and identity.
In his speech, Bhagwat commemorated the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Ravidas, noting that his life and teachings provided solace and inspiration during a time of oppression under foreign invaders. He praised Ravidas for his unwavering commitment to faith and social harmony, which served to uplift the spirits of the people facing persecution. The RSS chief stated that the organization has dedicated the past century to awakening self-awareness among Indians, aiming to create a united and resilient nation.
Bhagwat also paid homage to Swami Shraddhanand and Swami Lakshmanananda Saraswati, recognizing their sacrifices in safeguarding religious values and their contributions to society. He highlighted Shraddhanand's legacy as a prominent ascetic and educationist, as well as Lakshmanananda's dedication to serving tribal communities in Odisha. These tributes underscored the RSS's commitment to honoring those who have fought for the principles of Swadharma and social justice.
The RSS leader further discussed the concept of Panch Parivartan, which emphasizes self-awareness and the adoption of Swadeshi principles. He linked this idea to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, which begins with the phrase “We, the people of India,” reinforcing the notion of collective identity and responsibility among citizens. The centenary celebrations served as a platform to reiterate the organization's vision for a unified India grounded in self-awareness and cultural pride.
The event also saw the presence of notable dignitaries, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The RSS, founded in Nagpur by Keshav Hedgewar on Vijayadashami in 1925, has maintained a tradition of celebrating this festival annually, marking its enduring legacy in Indian society. As the organization looks forward to the future, it aims to continue its mission of fostering unity and strength across the nation.
