Assam: ‘Everyone who loves Bharat is Hindu,’ says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat
Guwahati: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat addressed a gathering of intellectuals, scholars, editors, writers, and entrepreneurs during his visit to Assam as part of the RSS’s centenary observance.
In an interactive session, he outlined the Sangh’s civilizational perspective, national issues, and ongoing programs across the Northeast.
Bhagwat stated that anyone who identifies with Bharat and has affection for the nation is considered Hindu, irrespective of personal modes of worship.
He stated that Hinduism embodies a civilizational identity forged through centuries of cultural continuity. “Bharat and Hindu are synonymous,” he said, adding that an official declaration is not required for India to be regarded as a Hindu Rashtra.
Explaining the RSS’s foundational approach, Bhagwat said the organisation focuses on Vyakti Nirman (individual character-building) and contributing to the idea of making Bharat a Vishwaguru.
He encouraged people to understand the Sangh by visiting a Shakha rather than relying on external interpretations. “The methodology to unite Bharat amidst diversity is called the RSS,” he said.
He elaborated on the five areas of social transformation — Panch Parivartan: social harmony, Kutumb Prabodhan (family awareness), civic discipline, self-reliance, and environmental protection.
He highlighted the importance of strengthening the family structure, recommending that families preserve accounts of their ancestors and promote responsibility and cultural awareness among younger members.
He said icons such as Lachit Borphukan and Srimanta Shankardeva should be seen as national figures, not limited to their regions of origin.
Addressing demographic and cultural concerns in Assam, Bhagwat called for awareness and a strong sense of connection to one’s land and identity.
He discussed topics such as illegal infiltration, the idea of a balanced population policy including a proposed three-child norm for Hindus, and the need to resist religious conversions perceived as divisive. He also advised careful and responsible use of social media.
Bhagwat referred to the participation of RSS Swayamsevaks in the freedom movement, mentioning Hedgewar’s imprisonment during the Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience movements, as well as contributions of Swayamsevaks during the Quit India Movement in 1942.
He described the Northeast as an example of India’s unity in diversity, noting that regional diversity reflects underlying unity.
He reiterated that figures like Lachit Borphukan and Srimanta Shankardeva have national significance.
The session ended with Bhagwat requesting citizens, especially those present at the event, to work together for nation-building as the Sangh enters its next century.