RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale declared on Sunday that what he termed as 'misguided insistence' on secularism has created a situation where people feel hesitant to openly identify as Hindu. He emphasized the urgent need to educate the new generation about the principles of Hindutva to counter this trend.
Centenary Celebrations in Indore
The prominent RSS leader made these significant remarks during the final session of a conclave featuring prominent citizens. This event was organized to mark the centenary year celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The gathering took place at the Rabindranath Tagore auditorium in Indore, where Hosabale responded to various queries from attendees.
Hosabale elaborated that due to persistent emphasis on secular principles, many individuals have developed reluctance about proclaiming their Hindu identity. This phenomenon, according to him, necessitates taking the subject of Hindutva to younger generations who are increasingly approaching the concept through study and research rather than blind faith.
Defining Hindutva and Addressing Conversion
When questioned about religious conversion, the RSS leader proposed a multi-faceted approach to address the issue. He suggested that conversion could be effectively curtailed through Dharma awakening, service activities, social harmony, travel of saints, and strict law enforcement.
"History is a witness that Hindus do not convert; they believe in inclusion," Hosabale asserted, referencing Swami Vivekananda's work in America where the spiritual leader promoted Indian culture without demanding religious conversion from anyone.
In his address, Hosabale provided a comprehensive definition of Hindutva, characterizing it not merely as a religious identity but as the enduring geo-cultural identity of the nation. He explained that this concept encompasses the historical, cultural, and civilizational continuity of the Indian subcontinent.
Hindutva as Geo-Cultural Identity
During the second session of the conclave, which specifically focused on Hindutva, Hosabale elaborated further on the concept. "Hinduism is the greatest contribution of Hindus to the concept of Dharma for human welfare," he stated. "All sects and traditions that practice Hinduism are part of Hindutva."
He described Hinduism as a geo-cultural concept fundamentally connected to empathy, duty, character qualities, lifestyle, and methods of worship. The RSS leader particularly emphasized the inclusive nature of Hindu philosophy, noting that it represents the path of 'also'—meaning multiple paths can lead to spiritual realization.
"It is this society that speaks in this manner which is Hindu, and because of this society residing on this land, this is a Hindu Nation," Hosabale declared. "The root of this singular culture is one, though its expressions are diverse. Hindutva, Hindu, and Hindu Rashtra are the identity of India."
Historical Context and RSS Foundation
In the initial session titled 'A Hundred Years of the Sangh Yatra,' Hosabale outlined the foundational principles and objectives of the RSS. He analyzed historical factors that led to the decline and subjugation of Indian society, identifying four key reasons: lack of organization, abandonment of Dharma in practical life, cultural inferiority complex during foreign rule, and self-centered greed.
The RSS leader's comments come at a significant historical moment as the organization completes one hundred years of existence. His statements reflect the Sangh's ongoing efforts to redefine and reinforce Hindu identity in contemporary Indian society, particularly among younger generations who are increasingly globalized yet rooted in traditional values.
The conclave in Indore served as an important platform for the RSS to articulate its vision for the future while celebrating its centenary milestone. The discussions highlighted the organization's continued focus on cultural preservation, identity politics, and national character building through the framework of Hindutva philosophy.
