RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Criticizes Colonial Education System in Lucknow Address
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a significant address at Lucknow University on Wednesday, where he strongly criticized the British colonial legacy in India's education system. Speaking at a research scholars' dialogue programme, Bhagwat asserted that the British deliberately "tampered" with India's traditional educational framework and replaced it with their own system to serve colonial interests.
Colonial Education Aimed to Create 'Black Englishmen'
Bhagwat elaborated that the British altered India's education structure specifically to create a class of "black Englishmen" clerks who would efficiently serve their administrative needs. He emphasized that this colonial intervention must be corrected to restore India's traditional values and position the nation as Vishwaguru, or world teacher.
The RSS chief highlighted that education and healthcare are fundamental necessities that should never be treated as commercial enterprises. "Education and health must be accessible to all," he stated firmly, underscoring the importance of these sectors as basic rights rather than profit-driven ventures.
Call for Authentic Research and Objective Scholarship
Addressing the gathering of research scholars, Bhagwat stressed the crucial role of authentic research in shaping India's future. He urged scholars to pursue their academic work with integrity and a genuine spirit of service to the nation. "Truthful facts must be brought to light. Ignorance prevents us from understanding India," he remarked, calling for objective scholarship that presents facts without bias.
Bhagwat also addressed what he described as negative propaganda against the Sangh, encouraging researchers to examine the organization objectively. He explained that the RSS works primarily for social cohesion rather than seeking popularity or political power. "If you want to understand the RSS, come and see it from within. It cannot be understood merely by reading about it," he advised, adding that the organization's core objective is to unite Hindu society and strengthen national character.
Dharma as Eternal Guide and Critique of Globalization
The RSS chief spoke extensively about dharma, describing it as an eternally relevant law that governs the universe. He stated that not even a single speck of dust can be considered 'secular' in this context, explaining that dharma brings happiness to all and applies to every aspect of human life. According to Bhagwat, dharma teaches people to live together harmoniously rather than in isolation, with behavior adapting according to religion, country, and time.
On the topic of globalization, Bhagwat expressed concern that the concept has increasingly become synonymous with commercialization and materialism, which he termed dangerous. He contrasted this with India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), advocating for collective well-being over consumerism. Bhagwat asserted that India possesses solutions to global challenges that differ from Western materialist approaches.
Strength Required for Global Leadership
Bhagwat criticized what he described as Western materialism, citing examples of countries like the United States and China that aim to become powerful while leaving others behind. He maintained that India has answers to global problems but emphasized that to lead the world, the nation must be strong in all spheres. "The world believes in truth only when there is power behind it," he stated, highlighting the relationship between strength and international respect.
Environmental Protection and Modern Technology
The RSS chief also addressed environmental concerns, calling for a friendly attitude toward nature. He suggested practical steps such as planting trees, conserving water, and avoiding plastic to help protect the environment. Additionally, Bhagwat urged the use of modern technology for environmental protection, recognizing the potential of technological solutions in addressing ecological challenges.
Throughout his address, Bhagwat reinforced the RSS's commitment to building a prosperous and united nation, emphasizing that the organization's work focuses on social cohesion rather than political objectives. His remarks at Lucknow University provided comprehensive insights into his perspectives on education, research, globalization, and national development.
