Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a series of addresses in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, on Wednesday, emphasizing social unity, inclusive religious spaces, and the revival of strong family bonds as core tenets for national harmony.
Call for Inclusivity in Hindu Religious Spaces
Speaking at a Hindu Sammelan in Sonpairi village, Raipur district, Bhagwat made a significant appeal for openness within the community. He stated that temples, water bodies, and cremation grounds should be accessible to all Hindus, framing this inclusiveness as a step towards unity rather than conflict. He urged people to move beyond divisions of caste, wealth, language, or region and to treat everyone as their own.
"Do not judge people by caste, wealth, language or region. Treat everyone as your own. Always consider the entire country as your own," Bhagwat said, describing this as the foundation for achieving "samajik samrasta" or social harmony. He linked the breakdown of social trust to religious conversions and advocated for respectful reintegration and community-led temple management.
Addressing Youth Challenges and Reviving Family Ties
Expressing deep concern over modern societal issues, Bhagwat highlighted the rising problems of loneliness, substance abuse, and digital isolation among the youth. He called for a conscious effort to strengthen family bonds as a primary solution.
He proposed a practical initiative termed "mangal samvad," urging families to dedicate at least one day every week to collective activities. This day should include:
- Engaging in prayers according to their faith.
- Eating home-cooked food together.
- Holding meaningful discussions.
Bhagwat argued that regular family interaction is a vital shield against the loneliness that often leads to bad habits and addiction. He also spoke on "kutumb prabodhan" (family awakening), urging individuals to introspect on their contribution to society and the nation, noting that family security is intertwined with national security.
Advocacy for Swadeshi, Language, and Civic Duty
In his wide-ranging addresses, which also included a session at AIIMS-Raipur, Bhagwat touched upon several cultural and civic themes. He advocated for:
- The use of one's mother tongue at home.
- Respect for Indian attire.
- Promotion of swadeshi (self-reliance) by preferring locally made products, barring unavoidable exceptions like medicines.
He called for strict adherence to the Constitution and civic discipline, recommending that citizens regularly read and follow the Preamble, fundamental duties, and their responsibilities. At AIIMS, he also highlighted the need for a balanced path that harmonises development with environmental conservation, stating that India is currently leading in this serious effort.
RSS Outreach in Centenary Year
Reflecting on the RSS's journey, Bhagwat noted that the organisation, which began with a small shakha in Nagpur, has now spread across the country over a century. His visit is part of the RSS's broader outreach efforts in Chhattisgarh during its centenary year. As part of this, on Thursday, he is scheduled to attend a ‘samajik sadbhavna' (social harmony) meeting at the Ram Mandir premises in Raipur, with heads of various communities, social organisations, and intellectuals.
