By: RSSFACTS Web Desk

What RSS top brass said in its annual Vijaydashami address from 2015 to 2022
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This is a compilation of English translations and summaries of the original Hindi Speeches of RSS Sarsanghchalak (Chief Mentor) Dr Mohan Bhagwat on the occasion of Vijaydashami from 2015-2022.   The RSS was founded on Vijaydashami in 1925. Vijaydashami  is a sacred festival for Bharatiyas(Indians) and celebrated by people of all religions since time immemorial. It is a day that marks victory of the good over evil. The RSS Sarsanghchalak delivers a speech at Nagpur in the Indian state of Maharasthra. This speech indicates the direction of the RSS for coming years. Over the years, with expansion of the RSS its sphere of influence has increased massively. So these speeches are observed with great interest.  Hence we are bringing to our readers a compilation of all the speeches-

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2022

The Chief Guest of today’s programme, Respected Shrimati Santosh Yadavji; on the dais, Vidarbha Prant’s Respected Sanghachalak, the Sanghachalak and Sah-Sanghachalak of Nagpur City, Office-bearers, Respected citizens, Mothers, Sisters and dear Swayamsevaks.

After worshipping the Shakti (Mother-Goddess) for nine nights (Navratri), on the tenth day – Ashwin Shukla Dashmi – that dawns with victory, we have assembled here to celebrate the Vijaydashami. The manifestation of all material and ethereal power is the Mother Goddess, she enables all resolves and grants us success. The Mother Goddess manifesting herself as Shakti(god’s power) is the basis of success of all noble and pure resolves and is imperative in establishment of purity and peace everywhere. Coincidently the delightful and honourable presence of today’s chief guest, Shrimati Santosh Yadav represents that Shakti and sentience. Twice, she has climbed the great heights of Gauri Shankar.

In Sangh programmes, there is an old tradition of welcoming intellectual and accomplished women guests. The Shakha methodology of ‘Vyakti Nirman’ (Human-development) is being operated separately by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Rashtriya Sevika Samiti. All other activities are carried out jointly by men and women. Bharatiya tradition has always thought with this vision of complementarily. However, this great tradition was forgotten, and numerous limitations were placed on ‘Matri Shakti,’ our women’s power. Repeated aggressions on our country created legitimacy for these false practices and over time they became habitual. At the very outset of our national regeneration, our great leaders rejected all manner of false practices that had become a lot of women. Both extremes – placing women’s power on a divine altar and freezing it there at the one end and the other extremity of treating women as second-class citizens and restricting them to kitchen – were avoided. Rather the focus was on the means and methods required for progress, empowerment of women in all domains of society, along with their participation and equity in the decision-making process. After stumbling through long years of various experiments the current individualistic and feminist view also is turning towards this very direction. In 2017, women activists working in different organizations had undertaken a broad-based and wide- ranging survey on the status of Indian women. The findings of the survey were submitted to the government authorities as well. The survey conclusions underscored the need for progress, empowerment and equal participation. Dissemination and acceptance of these conclusive findings require work, starting first at the level of families and then continuing through all layers of organizational life; only then the society along with its Matri Shakti can deliver its role successfully as an organized force in national resurgence.

Ordinary people are also now experiencing the process of national resurgence. We all feel a sense of exhilaration as we see our dear country, Bharat, make remarkable strides in strength, character and international acclaim. The government is pursuing policies which lead towards self-reliance. Bharat’s importance and stature has increased in the community of nations. In the sphere of security, we are becoming more and more self-sufficient. After negotiating through the calamity of corona our economy is inching towards the pre-pandemic levels. The Prime Minister in his address to the nation on the occasion of the inauguration of ‘Kartavya Path’ (line of duty) gave a description of Modern India’s future based on economic, technological and cultural foundations, you all have heard it. The government is to be commended for its clear enunciations. However, it is required that we all perform our responsibilities in word and deed in this direction. To advance on the ‘Atmanirbhar’(self-reliance) path, it is important to understand the fundamental tenets and ideas that define us as a nation. It is a necessary pre-condition that all these tenets are clearly absorbed and equally understood by the government, administration and our society. Flexibilities are required ordained by time and conditions, in such situations coordination and mutual faith ensure onward progress. Clarity of thought, unity of purpose, determination and an ability to adapt stimulate corrective steps and also safeguards against any possible mistakes. When the government, the administration, leaders of various political formations and sections of society rise above their differences and act in unison in a duty-bound manner, then a nation makes swift strides in development. While the government, administrative elements and political leaders perform their duties, our society also has to consciously carry out its responsibilities.

The process of national regeneration calls for overcoming obstacles. The first obstacle is Conservatism! The knowledge base of humankind increases with time. With time some things change while some are obviated. New facts and situations emerge. Therefore, any new dispensation must create a harmonious balance between tradition and contemporary realities. Outdated mores of the past have to be castaway. New traditions that are in sync with the present times and our nation have to be formulated, at the same time we have to be mindful about certain eternal values that imbue our identity, culture and life principles. We have to be cautious that they are not eroded and faith in them and their practice remains intact as before.

The second type of obstacles are created by forces who are inimical to Bharat’s unity and progress. Broadcasting wrong and fake narratives for spreading misperceptions, engaging and encouraging criminal acts, fomenting terror, conflict and social unrest are their tactics. We are experiencing these. These forces pit different sections of society against each other on the basis of sectional self-interest and hatred, and increase chasms and enmities, this has been their conduct in independent Bharat. Without getting trapped in their machinations, irrespective of their language, religion, region, policy, they have to be dealt with fearlessly, relentlessly and be either protested or repelled. We should assist the governments and administration’s efforts to control and bring such forces to its heels. Only our society’s strong and pro-active cooperation can ensure our comprehensive security and unity.

Without the strong involvement of society, no noble work or transformation can be stable and successful; this has been a universal experience. A good system also cannot be implemented if people are not prepared for it or if they do not accept it.

World over, all big and long-lasting transformations have been preceded by social awakening, thereafter systemic and administrative changes have followed. Education that encourages teaching in one’s mother-tongue as a policy is a highly reasonable opinion; the government/administration is paying attention to this by way of New Education Policy (NEP). But do parents want their children to be taught in their mother-tongue? Or chasing so-called financial gain or career (for which more than education, enterprise, courage and intuitive knowledge are required) chimeras, do they want their wards to become a part of a blind rat race? When expecting the government to institute the promotion of mother-tongue, we should also consider whether we sign our names in our mother-tongue or not? Whether the nameplates affixed on our residences are rendered in mother-tongue or not? Whether household invitations bear the texts in mother-tongue or not?

The New Education Policy should lead to students becoming highly cultured, good human beings who are also inspired by patriotism – this is everyone’s desire. But are the well-educated, and intellectual parents aware of this overall objective of education when they send their children to schools and universities. Education is not imparted only in classrooms. The home environment of ‘Sanskars’ (ethical conduct) and the duties of the parents thereof, mediums that influence social behaviours and discipline, public figures and leaders, festivals, carnivals, social gatherings etc also play a major role. How much attention do we pay to that? Without these exposures, only school-going education cannot be effective.

The Sangh wants the government to develop a healthcare system that pools varied medical treatment methods from diverse sources for etching out affordable health services that are widely available and shorn off commercial motivations. With government’s inspiration and support, yoga and exercises should continue in the interest of personal hygiene and social wellness. There are many people who are keenly interested in this and they regularly extoll the benefits from such practices. But if people ignore all this and continue with their old habits and attitudes then which system can ensure health for all?

Our constitution engineered political and economic equality but without social equity, real and stable transformation is not possible, such a cautionary advice was given to us by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. Later, ostensibly, some rules were made to achieve this objective. But the root cause of inequality is in our minds, social conditioning and habitual conduct. Personal and inter-family/community friendships, easy and informal exchanges, co-mingling takes place and at the social level unless temples, water sources and cremation grounds are open to all Hindus – till such time talk of equality will be a mere pipe dream.

Transformations that are expected to be brought in through administrative mechanisms are strengthened, accelerated and stabilized if they are also reflected in our social purpose and behaviour. If this does not happen the transformation process is obstructed and does not acquire fruition. Thus, educating mindsets is a necessary pre-condition. To achieve development which is devoid of consumerism and exploitation and is based on our thought tradition we will have to eradicate consumerist attitude and tendency to exploit from our own life and our society.

For a country as populous as Bharat, it is a natural expectation that economic and development policy making should be employment-oriented. But employment does not mean simply jobs, this prudence has to expand in our society. No work is insignificant or non-prestigious; manual, financial and intellectual labour are all respectable – we have to recognize this and conduct ourselves accordingly. Enterprise-oriented actions have to be encouraged. Setting up of decentralized employment training programmes in every district, employment opportunities in home districts, development programmes in villages as also education, health, ease of travel – these are common expectations from govt. However, during the pandemic, activists who toiled felt that the organized power of society is also capable of high delivery of services. Organizations working in the financial sector, small scale enterprises, some wealthy individuals, experts in craft skills, trainers and local Swayamsevak along with Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) began this project in 275 districts. It’s still early days but they have been able to trigger employment generation significantly –such is the circle.

This emphasis on society’s participation in every sphere of our national life, is not to relieve government of its responsibilities of governance rather it is to emphasize societal partnership for national upliftment and pivot policy making in that direction. Our country has a huge population–this is a reality. Nowadays there are two kinds of evaluation done on population. Populations require resources, if it keeps growing it becomes a big burden, perhaps an unbearable burden. Therefore, with the perspective of population control, plans are made. There is another dimension, in which population is considered an asset. Focus is on appropriate training and maximum usage. When we look at the world population one fact emerges. Only when we look at our country, thoughts may change. China has reversed its population control policy to population growth. Our national interest influences our thoughts on population matters. Today we are the youngest country. 50 years hence, today’s youth will be the future years’ senior citizens, to look after them what size should be our young population, this math we also have to do. With efforts, the people make a country grand, they also carry on their family line and that of society. To beget, preserve and protect a populace apart from being relevant for national identity and security, is a subject that touches some other facets also.

The number of children is linked with maternal health, education, financial status and individual wish. It is also dependent what each family needs. Population impacts the environment also.

In summation, the population policy has to be formulated considering all these factors mindfully. It should be applicable for all; public awareness campaigns will be required for creating a mindset of total observance of this policy. Only then rules pertaining to population control will yield results.

In 2000, the Government of India after multi-stakeholder consultations had framed a population policy. One key goal was to obtain a Total Fertility Rate (TFR) of 2.1. Recently, in 2022, the NFHS report which comes out every five years, has been published. Due to social awareness and constructive co-operative efforts by the central and state governments the TFR has come down below the targeted 2.1 to 2.0. While we are continuously progressing on the front of public awareness and the goals of population control, two more questions are emerging for consideration. Social scientists and mental health experts opine that ultra-nuclear families are posing challenges for the all-around development of young girls and boys, families are feeling a sense of insecurity, social tensions, loneliness etc are presenting testing times and a question mark hangs over the central edifice of our society –the ‘family system.’ Another question of great importance that of population imbalance has arisen. 75 years ago, we experienced this in our country. In the 21 st century, the three new countries that have come into existence, East Timor, South Sudan and Kosovo – they have been the results of population imbalance in certain territories of Indonesia, Sudan and Serbia. Population imbalances lead to changes in geographical boundaries. Alongside the differences in birth rate, conversions by force, lure or greed and infiltration are also big reasons. All these factors have to be mulled over. Population control and religion-based population balance is an important subject that can no longer be ignored.

In a democracy, the value of willing co-operation from people is well-known. The notification of rules, its acceptance and the achievement of desired results happens due to this only. Rules which yield quick benefits or result in gains over time or serve self-interest need not be explained. But when in national interest or in the interests of vulnerable sections, one has to leave selfish concerns, then to prepare people to make such sacrifices, a society has to keep awake their sense of and their pride in who they are.

This selfhood links us all. Because this is a direct result of the experience of truth that our ancient forefathers obtained. “Everything that happened in creation and will happen is out of this only” (सर्व यद्भूतं यच्च भव्यं), is an expression of that eternal and everlasting root of existence, while determinedly upholding one’s uniqueness yet respecting diversity and its specialities – this is a lesson which only Bharat teaches everyone. All are one so everyone should work unitedly, our different belief systems do not divide us. Truth, compassion, internal and external purity of heart and penance are the four principles that make all faiths fellow travellers. It protects all diversity and while maintaining their growth, keeps them together. This is what we call Dharma. Our culture based on these principles joins us all and inspires us to see the world as a family gifting it with a culture of harmony, dialogue, goodwill and peaceful co- existence. The sentiments of ‘वसुधैव कुटुंबकम्’ (the world is one family) and “विश्वं भवत्येकंनीडम्” (may the world become one home) are lofty goals that inspire us to strive.

This eternal flow of our national life has continued since ancient times with only this objective and only in this manner. With time and circumstances, form, path and style have changed but the fundamentals, destinations and objectives have remained the same. Continued progress in this journey was made possible by the tremendous courage and self-sacrifice of our countless braves, the gigantic labour of innumerable Karmayogis and severe penance undertaken by knowledgeable people. We all consider them to be worthy of emulation in our lives. They are our pride. Those common ancestors of ours are one more foundation of our unified existence.

They all sang paeans to our dear Motherland. Since ancient times, they inculcated in us the temperament to respectfully accept diversity and walk along with each other, they did not limit themselves to the frivolities of material pleasures but delved into the innermost recesses of human mind to seek out the enlightening truth of self-knowledge; considered the whole world as one’s own family, and propagated knowledge, science, culture and gentleness, all this due to our Motherland, Bharat alone. Since ancient times, laden with bountiful streams, verdant greens and splendid gentle breeze, Bharat Mata through her natural climes and frontiers has nurtured and protected us and made us what we are. An unparalleled devotion to our undivided Motherland is a main postulate of our nationality.

Since ancient times, irrespective of differences in geography, language, religion, lifestyle, diversities in social and political systems, as a society, culture and nation our way of living has continued in an unbroken manner. In this, there is acceptance, respect, security and progress for all diversities. Other than narrow-mindedness, fundamentalism, aggression and ego, no one needs to forego anything. Nothing is compulsory other than Truth, compassion, physical and inner purity and the dedicated practice of these three. Devotion to Bharat, the shining ideals of our ancestors and the great Sanskriti of our country, these are the three pillars which light up and pave our path on which we have to travel together with love and affection. This is our selfhood and Rashtra Dharma.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) mobilises and calls on society with this intention. Today Sangh experiences that people are ready to listen to and understand this clarion call. The propaganda which circulated against the Sangh due to ignorance, falsehoods, malice, fear and selfishness, has now lost its impact. This is because the geographical and social reach of Sangh has considerably increased i.e. It has increased in strength. It is a strange reality that to be heard in this world, Truth also needs strength. There are evil forces also in this world and to save oneself and others from them, the virtuous forces need to have organised strength of their own. Spreading the abovementioned national thought, Sangh works to develop the entire society as an organised force. This work is Hindu Sangathan work because the abovementioned thought is called as thought of Hindu nation and it is so. Therefore, without opposing anybody, Sangh organises all who subscribe to this thought i.e. organises the Hindu society for protecting the Hindu Dharma, Sanskriti, Samaj, and an all- round development of the Hindu Rashtra.

Now when Sangh is receiving the affection and confidence of people and also has become strong, the concept of Hindu Rashtra is being taken seriously. Many people agree with the concept but are opposed to the word ‘Hindu’ and they prefer to use other words. We don’t have any issue with that. For the clarity of concept – we will keep emphasizing the word Hindu for ourselves.

Scaremongering is done among so-called minorities that there is a danger to them because of us or organised Hindus. This has not happened in the past, nor will it happen in future. This is neither the nature of Sangh nor of the Hindus, history bears this out. Self-defence and defence of our own becomes a duty for everyone against those who spread hatred, commit injustice, atrocity, engage in acts of hooliganism and enmity towards society. “Neither threatens nor gets threatened,” this kind of a Hindu society is a need of the present times. This is not anti-anybody. Sangh has a steely resolve to stand on the side of brotherhood, amity and peace.

With some such worries, from amongst the so-called minorities, some gentlemen have been meeting us. They have had meetings and discussions with Sangh office-bearers, and this will continue. Bharatvarsh is an ancient nation, one nation. Preserving this identity and founts of tradition, while at the same time maintaining each one’s uniqueness, we should live with one another with love, respect and peace and engross ourselves in the selfless service of our nation. We must be companions in bliss and sorrow, we must understand and respect Bharat, we must be of Bharat, this is the Sangh vision of National integrity and Harmony. There is no other motivation or vested interest of Sangh in this.

Recently in Udaipur and some other places, extremely horrific and grisly incidents occurred. Our society was stunned. Most were sad and angry. It has to be ensured that there is no recurrence of such incidents. Particular community as a whole cannot be taken as a root cause for these incidents. After the Udaipur incident, from within the Muslim society, few prominent persons voiced their protest against the incident. This manner of protest should not be an isolated phenomenon within the Muslim society rather it should become the nature of their large sections. Hindu society in general assertively expressed their protests and strong reactions after such incidents even if the accused be Hindu persons.

Whatever be the extent of provocation, protests always have to be within the boundaries of our laws and constitution. Our society should come together, not fall apart or quarrel. With a sense of mutual reciprocity in word, deed and actions, all should speak mindfully and sensibly. We look different and distinctive, so we are different, we want separation, we cannot be with this country, its way of life and ideas or its identity; due to this falsehood ‘brothers were separated, territory was lost, places of worship were destroyed’, – no one was happy with the poisonous experience of partition. We are of Bharat, came from Bhartiya ancestors and its eternal culture, we are one as a society and in our nationality, this is the only protective shield, the mantra for us all.

We are completing 75 years of our independence. At the beginning of our national resurgence, Swami Vivekananda had exhorted us to devote ourselves to Bharat Mata and her service. On the occasion of our first Independence Day, 15 th August 1947, Rishi Aurobindo gave a message to Bharatiyas. It was also his birthday. The message described his five dreams. First, Bharat’s independence and solidarity. The integration of princely states through a constitutional process was a matter of joy for him. However, he was worried that due to partition, instead of Hindu-Muslim unity an everlasting political divide had been created which could obstruct and get in the way of Bharat attaining unity, progress and peace. By which ever means possible he wanted Bharat’s partition to be nullified and fervently wished for Akhand Bharat.

He knew Bharat had a central role in fulfilling his other dreams – liberation of Asian countries, unity in the world, the gift of Bharat’s spiritual wisdom to the world, the evolution of man to a higher consciousness.

Therefore, he gave a concise manifesto of service –

“There are times in a nation’s history when Providence places before it one work, one aim, to which everything else, however high and noble in itself, has to be sacrificed. Such a time has now arrived for our motherland when nothing is dearer than her service, when everything else is to be directed to that end. If you will study, study for her sake; train yourselves body and mind and soul for her service. You will earn your living that you may live for her sake. You will go abroad to foreign lands that you may bring back knowledge with which you may do service to her. Work that she may prosper. Suffer that she may rejoice. All is contained in that one single advice.”

This message is as relevant today as it was on that day.

गांव गांव में सज्जन शक्ति । रोम रोम में भारत भक्ति ।

यही विजय का महामंत्र है । दसों दिशा से करें प्रयाण ।।

जय जय मेरे देश महान ।।

|| भारत माता की जय ||

 

(Gaon gaon mein Sajjan shakti, rom rom mein Bharat bhakti.

Yahi vijay ka mahamantra hai, dasson disha se karen prayaan.

Jai jai mere desh mahan

Bharat Mata ki Jai.

Meaning: In every village, there is virtuous strength. In every heart, there is devotion to India. This is the great mantra of victory. Let us travel in all directions.

Hail, hail my great country,

Victory to Mother India.)

 

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2021

This year marks the 75th year of our freedom from foreign rule. We gained independence on August 15, 1947. We took the reins of the chariot of our nation in our own hands to take it forward. That marked the starting point of our journey from Swadheenata (independence/Self-rule) to Swa-tantrata (Self Model of governance). We are all well aware that we did not gain this freedom overnight. With the essence of Bharat as the basis, bearing similar images of what the independent country would look like, several freedom fighters belonging to distinct castes and communities and from different regions of this landmass made noble sacrifices and penances for the cause. The society too, alongside these brave souls, bore the sting of slavery as one unified unit. Only then all paths – from non-violent movements to armed rebellions – could culminate into the ultimate destination of independence. However, our consciousness worn out of artificial divisions, lack of an understanding of the right meaning of our own Swa-Dharma, Swa-Rashtra and Swa-Tantrata, lack of clarity, wavered and spurious policies and the colonial diplomatic games played over those policies have imbued an indelible scar of partition in the hearts of each Bharatvasi. It is imperative that our entire society, especially the younger generation, takes cognisance of this history, understands, and remembers it. This is not to harbour feelings of animosity towards anyone. We must remember this past so that instead of realising the ill-will of those who wish to deepen the differences and unleash the horrors of the past, we work on restoring our unity and integrity.

 Social Harmony

The existence of an egalitarian and non-discriminatory society is a prerequisite for a unified and integrated country. The problem of age-old caste-based divisions is a hindrance in this quest. Several reformations have been initiated in different ways and from different directions to uproot this evil. Yet a total eradication of this problem could not be achieved. Our societal consciousness is still skewed with caste-based sentiments. As of today, the intellectual landscape of the country is far outnumbered by those who are acting contrary to the ones building bridges to promote dialogue and intimacy among people. We must ensure that this dialogue turns out to be positive. All those who dream of an egalitarian and cordial social structure will have to make efforts in this direction. Interfamilial and societal interaction will need to increase. Friendly relations and exchanges among families can promote societal unity and equanimity. Sangh Swayamsevaks are working on building an atmosphere of equality along with fraternity by conducting socially harmonious activities.

 Freedom and National Ethos

Dedication towards Bharat’s integrity and unity and the freedom for all human beings have been our central themes of life since antiquity. People have been literally sweating their blood for the same. This year marks the 400th Prakash Parva (birth anniversary) of Shri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Maharaj. He was martyred for standing up against religious bigotry that was much in prevalence in Bharat then. He was targeted for his efforts to reinstate the cultural norms of the land, viz – freedom of religion and practice of one’s beliefs without the fear of persecution. He was lauded with the title “Hind ki chadar” or “the shield of ‘Hind’.” He was the Sun in the galaxy of the warriors who through the centuries have braved the currents of time and laid their lives to ensure a continuity of Bharat’s heritage of a magnanimous and all-inclusive religious freedom. The sense of pride for such great ancestors, firm dedication for the motherland in whose love they sacrificed their lives and the generous and all-assimilating cultural heritage, so painstakingly conserved, and nurtured by those brave souls, are all cornerstones of our national life.

The term ‘Free Life’ has a definitive connotation in the Bharatiya conceptualisation. Saint Gyaneshwar Maharaj ji of Maharashtra writes in a prayer “Let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end and their actions turn virtuous. Let the dark clouds of distress dispel, illuminating the sense of righteousness in all while fulfilling all the desires of everyone”.

Gurudev Rabindranath Thakur has reinforced this same sentiment in his famous poem by saying-

“Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high;

Where knowledge is free;

Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls;

Where words come out from the depth of truth;

Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection;

Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way

Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit;

Where the mind is led forward by thee

Into ever-widening thought and action.

Into the heaven of freedom, my father, let my country awake.”

When comparing and contrasting the present scenario with this ideal of independent Bharat one realises, our journey from Swadheehnta (independence/Self-rule) to Swa-tantrata (self-model of governance) is as yet far from complete. There are elements in the world for whom Bharat’s progress and its rise to a respected position are detrimental to their vested interests. They even wield power in some countries. If the religion that envisions a world based on Sanatan value-system prevails in Bharat then the foul play of those selfish forces will automatically be neutralised. Bharat yields its influence from the Dharmic worldview that has the potential to restore the lost balance in the world and promote mutual cooperation and conviviality. To prevent this, well-organised efforts are going on. A systematic effort is underway to confuse the world and even the citizens of the country, through misrepresentation and propaganda against Bharat’s people, the present scenario, Bharat’s history, Bharatiya culture and the socio-cultural groups that are working for the national rejuvenation of Bharat. Fearful of their impending defeat and a total obliteration, these forces are convulsing and coalescing to execute their operations overtly and covertly. We must see through the conniving of all those groups and cautiously protect ourselves and our society from these psychological snares.

In summary, the crooked minds are up to their same old tricks and search for newer avenues to further their misdeeds. Given their vested interests along with supremacist fanaticism rallying some support, misusing people’s gullibility to misguide them, infuriating people by exaggerating their present and imagined difficulties, creating some or the other form of unrest in the society, constant bickering, quarrelling; spreading terror and creating an anarchic state to revive one’s stale narrative and slap it in the society’s face – these tendencies have been exposed for a while now.

Besides the prevalence of ignorance, ambiguity, and skepticism towards the sense of ‘Swa’ (Selfhood) prevalent in our society, certain newer global developments are fast gaining momentum and strengthening the actions of these selfish forces. Clandestine, uncontrolled currency like Bitcoin has the potential to destabilise the economy of all countries and pose serious challenges. At present unregulated broadcasts of varied material on O.T.T. platforms are open for everyone’s indiscriminate consumption. In the backdrop of the pandemic online education was to be introduced. School-going children are hooked on mobile phones as a rule. In absence of prudence and a regulatory framework, it will become difficult to predict in which way and to what extent will this emerging phenomenon of contact with fair and unfair means sweep our society. However, to what extent anti-national forces wish to use these means is well-known. Therefore, the government must make efforts to regulate these affairs in no time.

Kutumb Prabodhan

At the same time, to exercise effective control over these threats an environment that clearly spells correct from incorrect and moral from immoral must be built in our homes. Innumerable reformers, preachers and socio-religious organisations are devoted to this task. We too can deliberate over these issues along with our family members and develop a behavioural consensus. Sangh Swayamsevaks are also contributing towards this cause by organising ‘Kutumb Prabodhan” (familial dialogue) activities. You might’ve heard or read “Mann ka brake Uttam brake” (Brake on the Mind is the Best Brake). This wisdom alone will be the remedy to the challenges of multifarious attacks over the Bharatiya value system that are diluting our faith and promoting recklessness.

Fight against Corona

All set to combat the third wave of Corona virus, we are also preparing to celebrate the 75th anniversary of our independence. During the second wave of Covid, society once again through its collective efforts exemplified resilience. The second wave was far more destructive and did not spare even many young people. Yet efforts of the men and women who were selflessly dedicated in the service of humankind despite serious health hazards posed by the disease are praiseworthy. The danger continues to loom on our horizon. Our battle with Corona virus is yet unending; however, we are more or less prepared to face the third wave. Vaccines have been administered en-masse and will need to be completed. The society at large is vigilant and Sangh Swayamsevaks along with several other righteous people and organisations have trained workers right up to village level who will maintain vigilance and garner on-ground support in case of emergencies. While on one hand all efforts to combat the impending wave have been made, on the other hand, it is also touted that the onslaught of the final stages is likely to be milder in comparison. Having said this, we must strive to comply with the governmental guidelines and remain cautious at all times.

It appears that neither the government nor the society is of the mindset to restrict day-to-day activities due to the looming threat of Covid. In mere two waves of Covid, the lockdowns have marred the economy considerably. We have the challenge of covering up for previous losses while making financial strides even faster before us. Means to achieve the same are being contemplated and attempted too. Such attempts should be unceasing. Despite the threat posed by the Covid pandemic, our Bharatiya economy is showing the potential and confidence to bounce back. There is even news of quick stabilisation and restoration of trade from many quarters. There is growing confidence that if the government succeeds in ensuring the participation of all the stakeholders, then the country will sail through the difficulties smoothly. Simultaneously, this situation can also provide us with an opportunity to resurrect and create a paradigm and model which is based in the principle of Swa- that is Selfhood.

There is a renewal of the confidence and the awakening of our ‘selfhood’ in our society also. The collection drive for Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Temple witnessed an overwhelming and devotional response which is a testimony to this awakening. The manifestation of societal endeavours in different walks of life is the natural corollary. By securing 1 gold, 2 silver and 4 bronze medals at the Tokyo Olympics and 5 gold, 8 silver and 6 bronze medals at the Paralympics for the country our sportspersons have displayed great valour, which must be congratulated. We are all part of the nation-wide felicitations conferred upon them.

The Covid pandemic has reinforced the usefulness of our traditional knowledge systems and the vision emanating from ‘selfhood’. We experienced the efficacy of our traditional lifestyle practices and Ayurvedic medicinal system in fighting and tackling the Corona virus. We are all able to appreciate the need for an effective and affordable treatment modality that may be accessible to each and every person living through the length and breadth of our vast country. In the geographically vast and densely populated country of ours, we will need to reimagine healthcare which is not just from a preventive but also from a wellness point of view, as illuminated by the science of Ayurveda.

Health the Bharatiya view

Grounding lives in our traditional framework of a balance of diet, recreation, exercise and meditation can foster an environment that promotes health and wellness and strengthens bodies to be resistant to infections. Our traditional lifestyle is wholly synchronous with nature and allows for the manifestation of cosmic intelligence. Public gatherings, wedding festivities and the like were prohibited during the Covid times. A plain and simplified version of these events had to be carried out. While the visible fervour and enthusiasm were dampened in the process, resources like wealth and energy could be conserved, the direct and instantaneous positive impact of which was palpable on our natural environment. It would be wise to learn from these experiences and endeavour to adopt a nature-friendly lifestyle as a way to prevent wasteful expenditure and frills when usual life is restored. A widespread movement that advocates a nature-friendly lifestyle is growing strong. Sangh Swayamsevaks too as part of environmental conservation activities are educating people about water conservation, plastic-use eradication, and tree plantation.

Currently, with the use of Ayurveda and other treatment modalities, primary healthcare needs can be effectively addressed at the local village level. If we plan to organise the secondary healthcare system at the zonal level then the availability of the tertiary healthcare centres at district level and prevalence of super speciality medicine in urban centres is possible. Rising above the conflict for supremacy of one method of medicine over another, rational use of all treatment modalities can ensure affordable, accessible, and effective treatment for all.

Our Viewpoint on Economics

The prevalent global economic paradigm is shaken by new challenges which are beyond the grasp of other nations. Mechanisation and the resultant rise in unemployment, ebb in the human value system due to unethical technology and the power without accountability are some examples. The whole world is now looking to Bharat, expecting and awaiting new parameters of economic system and development. Our distinct economic vision is evolved out of age-old national experiences of life and incorporating objects of economic pursuits thought about globally, wherein the source of bliss is said to be located within human consciousness. Material things are not the source of boundless bliss. Nor is bliss limited to physical pleasure. One that conceives of the body, mind, intellect and the soul as a whole; one that facilitates the process of realising that divine source of supreme knowledge through the balanced development of individual, collective and nature together; where the human spirit has experienced pinnacles of freedom by pursuing progress and pleasure bound by the principle of dharma or righteousness, such economic model has been considered ideal in our civilisation. Our economic paradigm emphasises control over consumption. The human being is a mere trustee of the material resources, not the possessor. It is deeply rooted in our belief system that human being is but a part of the creation and while it is his right to reap the resources that nature offers for his sustenance, it is also his responsibility to protect and preserve it. Such a view is not solitary or one-sided. It does not focus on maximizing the benefits of specific groups – only capitalists or only merchants or producers or labourers. In fact, this approach considers all of these stakeholders along with the end-user as members of a large (human) family – where gratification for all is ensured in a mutual harmonious and balanced manner. Erecting an economic development model based on this vision, consolidating our learnings that are valuable from across the world, and combining it with our current national context is the need of the hour. The manifestation of such a newer model of holistic and integrated progress is a natural outcome of independence; it is the long-awaited discovery of the ‘Swa’ or the “self.”

Population Policy

While reimagining the country’s development one predicament comes to the fore which appears to concern many. The rapid growth of the country’s population may give rise to many problems in the near future. Therefore, this challenge must be duly considered. A resolution was passed on this issue during the Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal (All India Executive Committee) meeting of Sangh held at Ranchi in the year 2015.

ABKM Resolution: Challenge of Imbalance in the Population Growth Rate

Steps taken to control the population of the country have yielded adequate results during the last decade. But in this regard, the Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal is of the opinion that the severe demographic changes brought forth by the analysis of the religious data of Census 2011 highlight the necessity of the review of population policy. Vast differences in growth rates of different religious groups, infiltration and conversion resulting in religious imbalance of the population ratio, especially in border areas may emerge as a threat to the unity, integrity and cultural identity of the country.

Although Bharat was one of the early countries in the world to announce as early as in 1952 that it will have population planning measures, it was only in the year 2000 that a comprehensive population policy was formulated, and a population commission was formed. The policy aimed at achieving a stable but healthy population by the year 2045 by optimising the fertility rate to the ideal figure of 2.1 total fertility rate [TFR]. It was expected that as this aim is in accordance with our national resources and expected future requirements, it will be uniformly applied to all the sections of society. However, the National Fertility and Health Survey [NFHS] of 2005-06 and the 0-6 age group population percentage data of religion in Census 2011, both indicate that the TFR and child ratio is uneven across the religions. This is reflected in the fact that the share of the population of religions of Bharatiya origin which was 88 per cent has come down to 83.8 per cent while the Muslim population which was 9.8 percent has increased to 14.23 percent during the period 1951-2011.

In addition to that, the rate of growth of the Muslim population has been very high than national average in the border districts of border states of the country like Assam, West Bengal and Bihar, clearly indicating the unabated infiltration from Bangladesh. The report of the Upamanyu Hazarika Commission appointed by Hon’ble Supreme Court and several judicial pronouncements from time to time have also corroborated these facts. It is also a fact that the infiltrators are usurping the rights of citizens of these states and are becoming a heavy burden on the already scant resources apart from creating socio-cultural, political and economic tensions.

The religious imbalance of population in the North-Eastern states has assumed serious proportions. In Arunachal Pradesh, the people of religions of Bharatiya origin were 99.21 per cent in 1951. It came down to 81.3 per cent in 2001 and to 67 per cent in 2011. In just one decade the Christian population of Arunachal Pradesh has grown by almost 13 percentage points. Similarly, in the population of Manipur, the share of religions of Bharatiya origin which was more than 80 per cent in 1951 has come down to 50 per cent in 2011. These examples and pointers of unnatural growth of the Christian population in many districts of the nation indicate an organized and targeted religious conversion activity by some vested interest groups.

The Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal expresses deep concern over all these severe demographic imbalances and urges the Government to –

Reformulate the National Population Policy keeping in view the availability of resources in the country, future needs and the problem of demographic imbalance and apply the same uniformly to all.

Totally curb the illegal infiltration from across the borders. Prepare a National Register of Citizens and prevent these infiltrators from acquiring citizenship rights and purchasing lands.

The ABKM calls upon the countrymen including all the Swayamsevaks to take the cognizance of the causes of these population changes and consider it their national duty to create public awareness and take all lawful steps to save the country from this demographic imbalance.

The ubiquitous and effective implementation of relevant policies pertaining to these matters will require widespread public sensitisation and impartial actions. In the present circumstances, news of persecution of native Hindus, growing criminalisation and a mounting pressure on them to escape their areas where an imbalanced population growth have surfaced. The violence that broke out following the elections of West Bengal and the pitiable condition of the Hindu people there can also be attributed to the appeasement of barbarous elements by the government and population imbalance. Therefore, a policy that is applicable to all groups in the same fashion is imperative. All of us need to inculcate the habit of considering the collective national interest above everything while coming out of attractive cobweb of milking the parochial group interests.

 Beyond Northwest Border

Another situation, which was not entirely surprising, but occurred before the expectation, is the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. Their predisposition – passionate fanaticism, tyranny and terrorism in the name of Islam – is sufficient to make everyone apprehensive of the Taliban. But now China, Pakistan and Turkey have coalesced in an unholy coalition with the Taliban. Since Abdali, our north-western borders are once again a matter of serious concern. Taliban has time and again alternated between Kashmir and peace talks simultaneously. This is an indicator that we cannot retire in complacency. Our military preparedness on the borders needs to be alert and sound on all ends and at all times. In such a situation, the internal security and stability of the country must be secured by the government and the society with caution and vigilance. Efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in the domain of defence and security and to become up-to-date with newer concerns like cyber security must be ramped up. We should be self-sufficient at the earliest when it comes to domains like security. While keeping the channels for dialogue open and without negating the possibility of a heart-change, we must be prepared for all possibilities. In this tragic hour, the need for emotional integration of the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of Bharat should be accelerated is also realised. Terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir have restarted the spate of the targeted killings of national minded citizens – especially Hindus – to destroy their morale and reestablish the reign of terror in the valley. The citizens are braving and shall brave the situation with courage but efforts for curbing and finishing off the terrorist activities needs speeding up.

Hindu Temples

Besides the internal and external threats to the nation’s unity, integrity, security, development, prosperity and peace there are some concerns of the Hindu society; efforts to resolve the same is also a necessity. State of the Hindu temples today is one such concern. Temples of South India are fully controlled by the state governments. In the rest of the country some are managed by the government, a few through joint family trusts while some are run by the trusts governed under society’s registration acts. Few temples completely lack any system of governance. Instances of misappropriation of movable and immovable properties of temples have come to light. Specific ceremonial guidelines and guiding texts apply to each temple and the deity residing therein. Instances of interference and meddling with those ceremonial matters have also been reported. A non-discriminatory ease of access and opportunity for seeing, worshipping God’s shrine, to all devotees irrespective of caste and creed is also not practised everywhere; this should be ensured. It is apparent for all that many decisions regarding the religious code of conduct of the temples are whimsically made without any consultation with the scholars and spiritual teachers and with indifference towards the sensitivities of the Hindu community. The injustices such as the exclusive appropriation of Hindu religious sites for decades and centuries, handing over of the operations to the non-devotees/irreligious, unethical heretics despite the State being ‘secular’ must be expunged. It is also necessary and only reasonable that the operating rights of Hindu temples be handed over to the Hindu devotees and the wealth of the Hindu temples is utilised for the worship of the deities and the welfare of the Hindu community only. Alongside this thought, it is also necessary to devise a scheme to once again make temples the epicentre of our social-cultural life while ensuring appropriate management and operation of the temples based on the strength of the Hindu society.

Basis of our unity

Even when the people involved in governmental and administrative spheres perform their expected roles, society’s active mental, physical and spiritual participation in national affairs is crucial. Certain problems can only be resolved with the initiative of the society. For this reason, in the context of the aforementioned challenges, alongside societal awareness, the default actions, thoughts and intentions of the society also require behavioural transformation. Therefore, the understanding and knowledge about the immortal essence of this Sanatan Rashtra flowing from the ancient times needs to be permeated well in the collective consciousness of our society. It is our culture to integrate Bharat’s varied linguistic, religious and regional traditions into a comprehensive unit and to promote mutual cooperation among all while accepting and honouring all as equal with identical opportunities for growth. Our conduct should be in accord with this heritage. We must dissolve the egoistic pride we derive from our parochial political, religious, caste-based, linguistic and regional identities. All Bhartvasis, including members of those communities whose religions have emigrated from outside, will need to understand that besides the differences in our spiritual beliefs and methods of worship we are all inheritors of a common eternal civilisation, culture and ancestry. This unique inheritance is the very ground of our religious freedom. Every person is free to choose a way of worship she/he deems suitable for oneself. It is a historical fact that along with the foreign invaders many religious sects too came into our country. However, as of today, the followers of those sects are not related to the invaders of the past but to the Hindu ancestors who struggled to defend the country against those invaders. Our ideals are our common ancestors. It is the grasp of this very fact that the country saw martyrs like Hasankhan Mewati, Hakimkhan Suri, Khudabaksh and Gaus Khan and a revolutionary like Ashfaqullah Khan. They are admirable role models for all. When one will come out of the separatist mentality arising out of religious aggression, supremacist attitude and petty selfish interests, he will realise that Bharat, its Sanatan Hindu culture and its magnanimous Hindu society that has the ability to accept all, alone can be the saviour of the world from the catastrophic grip of radicalism, intolerance, terrorism, conflict, animosity and exploitation.

Organised Hindu Society

If historically certain instances of mutual discord, injustices, violent outbreaks took place in our country, or if separatism, suspicion, disparity and enmity have prevailed for a long time, and if in the present times also something of this sort has happened, then understanding the cause of those problems, and finding ways to avoid a recurrence by uprooting those causes through our words and actions is necessary. We must remember that those forces that use our differences and misgivings by dividing us, question our ability for mutual trust, and destruct and corrupt our belief systems are waiting for us to slip up. The Hindu society, as part of the mainstream value system of Bharat, will be able to withstand this only when its organised social strength, confidence and fearless spirit is realised. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all those who claim to be Hindus that they erect a stellar example of Hindu view-of-life with their conduct in their personal, familial, social and professional domains. We will need to be free of all kinds of fears. Weakness gives rise to cowardice. We will have to meditate on ways to enhance physical, intellectual and mental strength, courage, vigour, endurance and forbearance at our own personal level. The strength of a society lies in its unity; sensitivity about collective interest and wisdom and dedication towards it holds the key in this process. It is important for everyone to stay away from any kind of conflict and to be cautious of ideologies, people, groups and precipitating events that can instigate differences. This appeal for consolidation of strength is not reactionary or defiance. This is a natural expected system in a society. Only a unified, strong and well-informed society with a national character can assert its voice before the world. To establish truth and peace also strength is required. By becoming strong and fearless we will have to create a Hindu society that epitomises these words – “Neither do I threaten anyone, nor do I know any fear myself.” A vigilant, united, strong and active society is the solution to all problems.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been working towards this very cause for 96 years now and will continue to do till the desired goal is attained. The message encased in the auspicious festival that we’re celebrating today is also the same. For nine days, the divine forces performed austerities, invoked and organised Shakti. It is then that the demons that plagued humanity in several ways were decimated. Today, the world is looking expectantly to Bharat for solutions to our current problems and Bharat needs to be prepared to fulfill the promise it holds. The fabric that binds our society together is our heritage, the chorus that rises in our hearts in the praise of the glory of our ancestors and our pure devotion towards our motherland. The word ‘Hindu’ is the expression of this very connotation. Absorbed in these three elements we can all wear the uniqueness of our underlying Sanatana oneness as our jewel and uplift our whole country. We must do this. This is the mission of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. With the clarion call to all of you to contribute your own offerings in this great penance, I conclude my address here.

भ्रांति जनमन की मिटाते क्रांति का संगीत गाते

एक के दशलक्ष होकर कोटियों को है बुलाते

तुष्ट माँ होगी तभी तो विश्व में सम्मान पाकर ।

बढ रहे हैं चरण अगणित बस इसी धुन में निरन्तर

चल रहे हैं चरण अगणित ध्येय के पथ पर निरन्तर ।

भारत माता की जय

(Bhraanti janman ki mittane kranti ka sangeet gaate

Ek ke dashlakshya hokar kotiyon ko hai bulaate

Tushth maa hogi tabhi to Vishwa mein samman paaker

Badh rahe hai Charan agnit bas isi dhun mein nirantar

Chal rahe hai Charan agnit dhyey ke path par nirantar

Bharat Mata ki Jai

Meaning: We sing revolutionary hymns,

to remove the illusions from people’s minds.

Multiplying one into a million,

we call upon a billion.

With honour showered that is her due,

our mother will be content then.

The feet are marching incessantly to this tune,

Countless feet are tirelessly walking on the path of the goal.

Victory to Mother Bharati.)

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2020

We are all aware that this Vijayadashami the celebrations are restrained in terms of numbers. We are also aware of the cause. To prevent community spread of Corona virus social gatherings are restricted.

Since March the talk about Corona pandemic has shadowed all other talk about developments across the world. Many noteworthy incidents took place between the last Vijayadashami and now. With due observance of parliamentary procedure Article 370 was abrogated well before the Vijayadashami 2019. After Diwali, on November 9, 2019, the Hon. Supreme Court passed an unambiguous, verdict in the Ram Janmabhoomi case, thereby making a historical judgment. The exemplary patience and understanding of Bharatiya people regarding this judgment became evident in the restraint along with piety and festive fervour displayed on August 5 in Ayodhya at the bhoomipujan and shilanyas samaroh (foundation stone laying ceremony)of the soon-to-be constructed Ram Mandir there. The Citizenship Amendment Act was lawfully passed in the Parliament as per the due constitutional process. This law envisaged speeding up granting citizenship to our brothers and sisters who face discrimination and persecution in some of the neighbouring countries and are displaced to seek refuge in our country. These countries have a history of religious persecution against minorities. This amendment in the Citizenship Act does not oppose any particular religious community. The constitutional provisions for granting citizenship to foreigners who come to Bharat continue to be the same. But those who wanted to oppose this new law misled our Muslim brothers by propagating a false notion that it was aimed at restricting the Muslim population. Opportunists took advantage of this delicate situation by unleashing organised violence and causing social unrest in the name of protests. As a consequence, a tense atmosphere was created in the country that put our communal harmony at stake. Even before something could be thought out and done to resolve the situation the Corona pandemic crept in and gradually took hold. In the background, the efforts by rioters and opportunists to reignite the conflict still continue. It is not making a mark on the collective consciousness or garnering headlines in publications other than the ones that fuel such activities because of the overwhelming discussions of Corona in the media.

The scenario is common throughout the world. In comparison to many countries, Bharat stood strong in the face of adversity and dealt with the calamity effectively. There are some reasons why we escaped Corona debilitation that few countries could not. Our governing and administrative agencies promptly sprung up in action. They cautioned citizens, created emergency task forces and efficiently implemented control measures. The media monotonously aired news on just this issue. While this exercise created an atmosphere of disproportionate fear among the common man it also compelled the society to exercise caution and restrain by obeying rules. Government officials, medical practitioners practising different forms of medicine, police officers, municipality workers and cleaners displayed an extraordinary sense of responsibility by dedicatedly serving the infected patients. Maintaining social distance with their own family members, these warriors, risking their lives, embraced the death-scare posed by the virus and bravely stood at the frontline in this war round the clock. Citizens of the country too mobilised private resources and left no stone unturned in offering all possible help their fellow beings needed. While even in these testing times, the tendency to exploit the drawback of the needy to one’s own advantage surfaced here and there, the larger picture was that of sensitivity, cooperation and mutual trust between governmental administrative agencies and society. The womenfolk also propelled in action with self-motivation. Those who were displaced owing to the pandemic or the ones who lost jobs and faced misfortune and hunger faced difficulties while remaining patient and tolerant all along. In fact, many anecdotes of people ignoring their own troubles and stepping up to help others came to the fore. Ferrying the state migrants back to their homelands, arranging for food and resting spots on the way, delivering food and medicines at the doorstep of the sick or needy, great efforts were jointly made by the entire society to cater to such critical needs. By setting the example of unity and sensitivity, our society displayed a larger set of service activities in response to the quantum of the Herculean problem. Many of our traditional habits pertaining to cleanliness and hygiene, healthy lifestyle and strengthening immunity with the science of Ayurveda also proved to be useful in this period.

Homogeneity and unity of the society, deep compassion and cooperation during difficult times- all aspects that make up for what is called the social capital were experienced during this time, reflecting our centuries-old cultural ethos. For many, the kind of patience, collectivism and self-confidence experienced was a first since Independence. I respectfully bow to all the volunteers who are known and unknown, those who are alive and who laid their lives for service, medical practitioners, municipality workers and all other agents of service from different sections of the society. They are all admirable. Our sincere homage in the holy remembrance of all those who sacrificed their lives.

To emerge from the current scenario a different kind of Sewa initiative is required. Restarting educational institutions, compensating teachers, resending students to their schools and colleges while paying a fee for the same, these tasks are arduous. Schools that stopped receiving funds cannot afford to pay their teachers. Guardians who lost their jobs or shut businesses are in a fix as they do not have funds for their ward’s fee. We will have to devise service assistance to ensure the opening of schools, paying teachers’ salaries and students’ education. Displacement left many unemployed. Failing to find alternate sources of employment they are compelled to explore other sectors. Getting employment in a new sector mandates prior training. These are the problems facing the displaced today. Finding a replacement for the migrant workers to complete the pending tasks that were abandoned halfway is becoming a challenge too. Therefore creating employment opportunities and providing training to the unskilled is essential. In cases where families are facing such deprivation, stress creeps up in the households. To prevent negative dispositions like crime, depression and suicide there is an extensive need of counselling and support services at this time.

Since March Sangh swayamsevaks are working to fill the gaps wherever needed in this difficult backdrop. They will also make wholehearted contributions in the new Sewa(service) initiatives enumerated above. I am hopeful that other members of the society will also decipher the need for persistent long-term efforts and make needful contributions.

The world does not have a complete understanding of the virus. It is a transmutable pathogen that is rapidly communicable, but its virulence is low – this much we have come to understand. Therefore, safeguarding oneself from this pathogen for a longer time is essential. At the same time, while working to find the remedy to the social and economic challenges posed by it on our fellow beings will be the long-term focus. While we must not let fear cripple us, we need to proceed cautiously and strategically. With the social life nearing normalcy, complying with the rules and motivating others to do the same is our moral responsibility.

Many other facets of our society became apparent during the battle against this pandemic. A shift in favour of introspective thinking is trending across the world. The phrase “new-normal” often comes up in conversations. The corona pandemic has brought lives to a total and complete standstill, forcing curtailment of several activities that man went about mechanically earlier. An evaluation of the merits of those activities made it apparent that the superficial practices that had invaded human life were unnecessary, while the essential ones comprised the heart of life in these times. Some activities though watered down did not fully fade. Within one week of lockdown, we noticed a marked difference in the quality of the air we breathe. Water bodies like rivers, springs and ponds cleared up and clean waters began flowing out. Bird songs tinkled human memory again as the birds and other creatures were audible in neighbourhood parks and open urban spaces. In the rush towards amassing wealth and consuming more, we alienated ourselves from certain basic life functions which during this time of need fell back on our plate and added meaning and joy to life. We have become mindful of the value of some virtues. The corona pandemic has bestowed the wisdom to differentiate regular from irregular and eternal from temporary upon all of humanity. With many families actively deliberating sustainable lifestyles compatible with the time and space and the ways to transition into those, people have become acutely aware of the merit of cultural ethos. Humans have once again realised the importance of family systems and the need for harmonious coexistence with nature.

Whether these realisations are merely side effects of the pandemic breakout or has humanity actually shifted its stance in these matters, will be answered in time. However, one thing is clear that this calamity has played the role of that magnet which has attracted all human consciousness to the vital life values.

Until recently the philosophy of integrating the world on the basis of the market forces dominated human imagination but with the latest turn of events, the idea of safeguarding life and exercising international cooperation by promoting unique strengths and assets of each country is an idea that has started to take shape in the global mind. The philosophy of ‘Swadeshi’ has trumped once again. It is time to redefine these adages in view of the current Bhartiya context and to rebuild paths that will lead us back to our time-tested values and traditions.

China’s role in the breakout of this pandemic may be disputable but its misuse of their riches by unleashing terror on the borders of Bharat and boisterous efforts to invade our territories are well-known to the whole world. Bharatiya defence forces, government and the people remained unfazed and responded sharply to this attack. This example of a strong resolution, exercising self-respect and bravery has stunned China. Going further we must be watchful and remain firm. Even in the past, the world has time and again witnessed China’s expansionist attitude. Rising above China economically, strategically, in securing cooperative ties with our neighbours and at international relations is the only way to neutralise those demonic aspirations. The policies proposed by our leaders seem to be charting those very horizons. Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar (Bhramadesh)- such neighbouring countries have shared a friendly bond with us and are more or less aligned over issues of values and ethical code with us. We must now pace up our efforts to secure cooperative bonds with these countries. The impediments in this journey like the differences of opinions, conflicted issues and old grouses must be settled sooner than later.

We intend to be friendly with all. This is our nature. But mistaking our benevolence for weakness and attempts to disintegrate or weaken us by sheer brute force is unacceptable. Our reckless detractors should know this by now. The indestructible patriots of Bharat Mata and their formidable valour, leaders with a sense of self-respect and the indomitable ethical patience of the citizens should have sent a loud and clear message to China. This must compel it to reform its attitude but if push comes to shove, we will not fall short of alertness, firmness and readiness, this resolve is clear among our countrymen.

External threats to the country’s safety and sovereignty is not the only call for our vigilance. A careful analysis of many of last year’s internal events also demand alertness, understanding and harmony in the society and preparedness of governmental agencies and national leadership. Push and pull for power on the part of those out of it is intrinsic to the democratic political process, however, exercising discretion to see political competition for what it is and not as a bloody battle between enemies is pivotal. Healthy competition is always welcome, but the competition that morphs into hatred, bitterness and animosity that weakens the social fabric is unwarranted. Forces that see opportunity in rifts among competitors, that wish to weaken and fragment Bharat, that have long projected our diversity as differences and insinuated people into unfortunate scrimmages over old disagreements resulting in formidable struggles are very much prevalent in the world and active in Bharat. They should not be given that opportunity by us. The government agencies should seek cooperation of people to immediately nab and severely punish the culprits if incidents of crime and violence continue to occur in the society despite measures to curtail those and attempts of total restrain on criminal and violent tendencies. We must see to it that our actions do not create any opportunities for them. To ensure this, our reactions to government decisions or expressions of discontent must heed national integrity. We should be sensitive towards people of all religions, regions, castes and linguistic backgrounds and conduct ourselves within constitutionally warranted limits. Unfortunately, those misaligned with or opposed to our socio-cultural values have, while professing to be the champions of democracy, constitution and secularism, continued to fool and confuse the people of our country. In his August 29, 1949 address to the Constituent Assembly, Revered Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar used the phrase “grammar of anarchy” to describe the actions of such elements. We have to learn to identify such disguised elements and defuse their conspiracies by alarming and alerting our brothers and sisters so that they can not be shepherded away by such predators.

To avoid this type of confusion about the Sangh, realising Sangh’s preference for a specific vocabulary and how it interprets certain popular terms is crucial. Hindutva is one such term. Its meaning has been distorted by appending a ritualistic connotation to it. Sangh does not use it to refer to this misconception. To us, it is the word expressing our identity along with the continuity of its spirituality-based traditions and its entire wealth of value system in the land of Bharat. Therefore, Sangh believes that it is the word applicable to all the 1.3 billion people who call themselves the sons and daughters of Bharatvarsh, whose everyday life is a striving toward an alignment with its moral and ethical code and who are proud of the heritage of their ancestors who successfully traversed the same spiritual landscape since time immemorial. Being oblivious to the true meaning of this term weakens the thread that integrates us with this country and society. It is for this reason that this term is the first target of castigation by those who instigate intergroup conflicts, who are bent on splitting our country and society. They by presenting as separate, our diversities which are traditionally accepted, respected and are a part of larger scope of Hindu philosophy in reality, try to convert them into a source of alienation or separatism. ‘Hindu’ is not the name of some sect or denomination, it is not a provincial conceptualisation, it is neither a single caste’s lineage nor the privilege of the speakers of a specific language. It is that psychological common denominator whose vast courtyard cradled human civilisation, that which honours and encompasses innumerable distinct identities. There may be some who have an objection in accepting this term. We do not object their using other words if the content in their mind is the same. However, in the interest of the country’s integrity and security Sangh has over the years humbly assimilated the colloquial and the global interpretations of the term Hindu. When Sangh says Hindusthan is Hindu Rashtra it does not have any political or power centered concept in its mind. Hindutva is the essence of this Rashtra’s ‘Swa’(self-hood). We are plainly acknowledging the selfhood of the country as Hindu because all our socio-cultural practices are directed by its principles with their spirit percolating in the personal, familial, professional and social life of each one of us. Circumambulating the emotional ambit of this view of life does not require giving up one’s faith, language, land or any other identity marker. It only mandates an abandonment of the quest for supremacy. One has only to be alert and keep away from the selfish and hateful forces who confuse and instigate people by showing them false dreams of supremacy, encourage radicalism and foster separatism.

The deplorable attempts to disintegrate the unity that has perpetually remained an inextricable part of the diversity of Bharat by making false promises and by creating hate amongst scheduled-castes, scheduled-tribes and the so-called minorities of our country are underway. Members of this conspiratorial gang instigate and promote slogans like “Bharat tere tukde honge” (Bharat will be disintegrated). An unusual blend of political interest, separatist and fundamentalist tendencies, a hatred of Bharat and a quest for global domination is working to dampen Bharatiya unity. We will have to patiently proceed with a deep understanding of the matter. While remaining free from the influence of these forces we must focus on integrating our society through peaceful means, in obeisance of our constitution. If we exercise self-control, remain balanced and keep each other’s best interest in mind then an environment of mutual trust can prevail which will aid in the resolution of old conflicts; while the mistrust that stems from contradictory behaviours would make the solutions seem unattainable and problems unfathomable. Reactionary and fearful stance and unreasonable opposition lead to uncontrolled violence and the gulf separating the people widens.

To be able to increase the atmosphere of faith in each other and friendliness, restraint and patience we all need to accept and embrace the truth of our larger and shared identity. Our actions cannot waver in time following a political cost-benefit calibration. Bharatiya cannot be extricated from Bharat. All attempts at doing this have always failed, we have many testaments before us to prove so. It is the time to realise that our instinct for emancipation is nudging us all to integrate with a single sentiment. Acknowledgement of the fact that the emotional spirit of Bharat, its acceptance for and support to multiple belief systems and faiths, is a byproduct of the Hindu culture, traditions and Hindu practice of not just tolerance but acceptance and respect of all, is the need of the hour.

The word ‘Hindu,’ features in almost every statement of Sangh, yet it is being discussed here because several related terms have gained popularity in the recent past. ‘Swadeshi’ is one such word which is oft-discussed nowadays. The ‘Swa’ or ‘self’ here refers to the same Hindutva. That very eternal philosophy underlying our tolerant and accepting nature which was hailed by Swami Vivekananda on the land of America referring to all people as brothers and sisters, meaning parts of a single unit or family. Poet laureate, Shri Rabindra Nath Thakur also clearly emphasised a philosophical foundation for the Bharatiya revival based on this very concept in his essay ‘Swadeshi Samaj.’ Shri Aurobindo proclaimed it in his Uttarpara address. The introspections and contemplations conducted by our society after 1857 and the experiences of the exercises conducted by several national bodies are encased in the Preamble to our Constitution which embodies the same spirit of Bharat. That spirit or ‘swa’ should be the compass directing our intellectual brainstorming and plans of action. It should be the light that illuminates the directions, aspirations and expectations of our country’s collective consciousness. The results of our efforts in the physical plane and their consequences should be in accordance with this principle. Then and only then will Bharat qualify as self – reliant. Places for production, the workforce that is involved in the production process, economic benefits emanating from sales of the production and the rights of production must be in our national control. But this alone does not qualify as Swadeshi methodology. Shri Vinoba Bhave ji identified a combination of self-reliance and non-violence as Swadeshi. Late Shri Dattopant Thengadi ji claimed Swadeshi cuts beyond goods and services and stands for attaining a position of international cooperation by achieving national self-reliance, sovereignty and parity. So to achieve financial independence in the future and attain a position of international cooperation we are open to foreign investors and give relaxations to companies offering newer technologies, provided they engage on our terms and mutually agreeable conditions. But such a decision has to be based on mutual consensus.

In self-reliance, dependence on self is intended. Our vision decides our destination and our path. Even we attain a prime position by following the same wasteful exertions that the rest of the world is after, that will certainly be a courageous victory. But it will be in the absence of the spirit and participation of the ‘Swa’(Self). For instance, while designing our agricultural policy we should empower our farmer to control his seed banks, create manure, fertilisers and pesticides on his own or procure these from areas neighbouring his village. He should be educated about the art of storing and processing his produce and have access to such facilities. We have a deep, extensive and ancient history of agriculture. Therefore, the newer policies should aim to make our farmer aware of modern agricultural science and also enable him to blend that knowledge with time-tested, contextually relevant traditional knowledge. The policies should be such that a farmer should be able to use these research findings and sell his produce without getting trapped, either in the profit aimed interpretations of those findings or sponsored research by the corporate sector or under the pressure of the market forces and middlemen, only then such a policy will be compatible with the Bharatiya view and be a truly Swadeshi agrarian policy. It is likely that incorporating these changes immediately within the present agrarian and economic system might not be possible. In that case, the policies should focus on creating a conducive environment to translate the suggested changes into reality.

Some positive steps in the direction of assimilating this ‘swa’ in our economic, agriculture, labour, manufacturing and education policy have been taken. A new education policy formed on the basis of extensive deliberations and dialogue has been declared and launched. Along with the entire educational field, the Sangh has also welcomed it. “Vocal for local” is a great start in the exploration of the possibilities of Swadeshi. But, for these initiatives to be successfully implemented the process will have to be watched and monitored keenly to the finish. Therefore, given these wide-ranging perspectives we will have to imbibe this spirit of ‘swa’ or self, only then we can move forward in the right direction.

Our Bharatiya thought does not endorse struggle as an essential ingredient of progress. Struggle is considered as a last resort for the elimination of injustice. The conceptualisation of progress here is based on cooperation and coordination. Therefore, the spirit of oneness is critical to actualising self-reliance in various aspects of life. Self-reliance then essentially implies overall well-being and upliftment of the whole nation through coordinated efforts and cooperation with each other, akin to interdependent organs of one body. A policy-making process where all concerned people and parties discuss and deliberate extensively and draw consentient conclusions fosters the spirit of oneness and trust among all. Open dialogue with all, drawing consensus through discussion, ensuring cooperation and resultant trust – this is the prescribed method for securing credibility and eminence among one’s family and community.

समानो मन्त्रः समितिः समानी समानं मनः सहचित्तमेषाम् |

समानं मन्त्रमभिमन्त्रये वः समानेन वो हविषा जुहोमि ||

(Samaano mantrah samitih samanee

Samaanam manah sahachittameshaam

Samaanam mantramabhimantraye vah

Sameenena vo havisha juhomi

Meaning: Let our speech be one; united our voices. May our minds be in union with the thoughts of the Wise. Sharing a common purpose; we worship as one.)

Fortunately, we can rely on and expect from the prevailing political leadership to engender the feeling of oneness and trust with regards to matters small and big among all the people. An administrative system connecting the society with the government has to be more sensitive and transparent to facilitate and accomplish this task in a better fashion. Prompt implementation of mutually agreed policies does not require massive changes and boosts the environment of cooperation and coordination. Remaining alert and exercising total control over the implementation of proposed policies till the endpoint is significant. Besides policy-formation promptness and transparency at execution also optimise policy rewards.

The need to decentralise agriculture and manufacturing sectors by supporting small and medium scale enterprises, creating employment opportunities, aiding the self-employed, initiating eco-friendly businesses and self-sufficient production units aiming to bolster the economic progress has drawn the attention of many intellectuals alongside the policymakers of the country in this time of Corona. Those employed in these sectors from small-time and seasoned entrepreneurs to farmers are all eager to taste entrepreneurial success for our nation. The government will need to provide extra cover for them so they can attain world-class standards that will allow them to stand a competitive chance alongside other economic giants of the world. Along with the allocation of funds, its actual disbursement on the ground has to be ensured so that they can restart again after six months of the corona crisis.

With a progress-oriented mindset, the developmental path of the country whose destination complies with the culture and aspirations of our people will have to be delineated. After establishing consensus with a positive contribution from all views we must freeze the execution plans in letter and spirit. If it is ensured that the rewards of the developmental achievements percolate down to the most disadvantaged; if exploitation and extortion by middlemen and touts are eliminated; the producers and manufacturers have direct interface with the markets and the developmental schemes, only then our dreams can come true, otherwise dangers that cause failure are lurking around.

While all the suggestions made above are highly significant the collective resolve of a society is the preceptor and the foundation of the nation’s development. The consciousness that has prevailed in the aftermath of corona, viz, realisation of the true meaning of ‘self,’ spirit of oneness with all the people, the importance of cultural values and environmental awareness plus the need for remedial actions to restore its balance should not be disregarded by our society. We must not drop the momentum, lose sight of these indispensable values and fall back in a pattern of insensitive behaviour. Gradual and consistent practice of right conduct and responsible behaviours of an entire society alone can bring rewards. Starting with small incremental changes, conducting regular awareness initiatives can cause this behavioural shift. Each family can be a part of this movement. Once a week all family members can get together to jointly do some prayer and have homemade food followed by two to three hours of informal discussion. The above-mentioned subjects can be deliberated in those discussions as actionable items and small family level resolutions can be taken, which can further be reviewed in the next week’s discussion. The act of discussion in the family is paramount, newness or oldness of the subject/object notwithstanding, the outcomes of an investigation alone decide the usefulness and relevance of the issue. Our scriptures describe this method as-

सन्तः परीक्ष्यान्यतरद् भजन्ते मूढः परप्रत्ययनेय बुद्धिः |

Santah pareekshyanyatarad bhajaate mudhah parapratyaneya buddhih

If we examine the subject matter holistically in the informal family setting, exercise discretion as to the relevance of the issue and by choice accept or reject a view, then the resulting behavioural changes will more likely be permanent.

In the beginning, matters of common concern like domestic arrangements, design of the dwellings, our family culture, long-standing customs and traditions can be discussed. Owing to everyone’s familiarity with environmental concerns, ways for total boycott of plastic, water conservation, increasing green cover by planting saplings of flowering plants, fruit trees and vegetables in our courtyards and terraces can be discussed and actionable plans jointly created. According to the time available and the needs, all of us spend money over personal and familial requirements every day. We can contemplate what amount of money and time we spend for our society on a day-to-day basis and how to go about doing it? Do we have friendly associations with people and families that belong to different castes and regions and speak varied languages? Have we mingled deeply- sharing meals and visiting homes of those acquaintances? To promote societal harmony these are vital discussion topics. Emphasis can be laid upon participation of our family in actual programs and initiatives, e.g., our family can contribute to Blood Donation, Eye Donation or help create awareness about its importance.

Through these minute undertakings, harmony, uprightness, patience, discipline and values-driven personal conduct can be cultivated. Consequently, our collective behaviour while in keeping with the civic discipline becomes that which augments mutual cooperation and harmony. If we work to raise the general level of consciousness of a common man and nurture his intrinsic spirit of oneness with Hindutva as the guiding force, if we make individual efforts for developmental progress with a deeper understanding of the structure of our country and acknowledge our interdependence to cooperate with other members of the society, if we have confidence in our collective strength to achieve any dream and set developmental goals rooted in our values then in the near future Bharatvarsh will emerge as the torchbearer for the rest of the world and come to be known as the Bharatvarsh that showed the path of peaceful and congenial progress to humanity- freedom and equality in the true sense of the word.

Behavioural conduct of such individuals and families will create an overall atmosphere of fraternity, meaningful action and lawful order in the whole country. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been working to effect these changes directly in the society since 1925. Such an organised state is the natural state of a healthy society. Such an organised society is the precondition for the resurrection of this country that has become independent after the centuries-long darkness of invasions. Many great personalities have worked to build such a society. After independence, with this very goal in mind, our constitution was crafted in age-relevant codes of desired conduct and passed on to us. Sangh work only will ensure inculcating a clear vision to realise the objectives of our constitution, and the conduct of mutual harmony, the spirit of oneness and the sentiment of national interest are paramount. Swayamsevaks are sincerely, selflessly and dedicatedly involved in realising this goal. With an invitation that you all to be their fellow-workers in this campaign for upstart reconstruction, I end my address here.

प्रश्न बहुत से उत्तर एक कदम मिलाकर बढे अनेक |

वैभव के उत्तुङ्ग शिखर पर सभी दिशा से बढे अनेक ||

|| भारत माता की जय ||

(Prashna bahut se uttar ek kadam milakar bade anek

Vaibhav ke uttuang shikhar par sabhi disha se bade anek

Bharat Mata ki Jai

Meaning: Many questions, numerous answers, amalgamate into a single step forward, On the towering summit of abundance, from all directions, there are countless ways to advance.

Victory to Mother Bharati (India)

 

 

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2019

 

Respected chief guest , invited guests who specially came here to witness this function, venerable seers, Mananeeya(respected) Sanghchalaks, all Mananeeya Adhikaris (officials)of the Sangh, mothers, sisters, eminent citizens and beloved Swayamsevak brothers.

The year preceding this Vijayadasami was very special as the 550th Prakash Varsh of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The programmes planned in this connection will continue for some time till their scheduled time-period ends. In the meanwhile, Dattopant Ji Thengadi’s birth centenary year will also start from November 10. However, some important events that had taken place in the past year have made it more memorable to us.

The Lok Sabha election results were declared in the month of May. These elections attracted the attention of the whole world. The timely and systematic conduct of the elections in Bharat, a country of continental proportion brimming with diversity, was the prime cause of attraction for the world. Similarly, was the change in 2014 a mere result of a negative political wave born out of the disenchantment against the previous government, or the people had made up their mind to go in a specific direction: was to be seen in the elections of 2019. The world took note of that also. The people have expressed their firm opinion: democracy is not a new unfamiliar thing that has been imported from outside, but it has been ingrained in the national psyche as a result of centuries of tradition and collective experiences and enlightenment gained during the post-independence period; and as a result, the society has resolved to remain in and take forward democracy successfully. This fact came to the attention of all. The society by electing the new government with an increased number of seats has endorsed its past performance and expressed a lot of expectations for the future.

The move of the re-elected regime to nullify Article 370 has once again proved that it has the courage to fulfil those expectations and respect people’s sentiments and wishes in the interest of the country. Removal of Article-370 has been already in the thought of the ruling party. But this time by skilfully garnering the support of other parties in both houses, with strong logic and plea in consonance with public sentiment the work was accomplished, for which the members of the ruling party, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister, and other political parties who upheld the public sentiments in Parliament deserve congratulations. This effort will come to fruition only when justice denied under the influence of Article 370 is restored, injustices occurred are brought to an end. It will happen when our Kashmiri Pandits who were unjustly driven away are brought back and rehabilitated and allowed to remain secure, fearless, patriotic and Hindu. Many a right of residents of Kashmir which were denied to them so far will be restored, and false fears instilled in the minds of brothers of the Valley that there is a threat to their property and jobs due to the nullification of Article 370, will be removed and having done away with those fears, they will be able to perform their duties towards the country’s development with brotherly affinity and concord with the people of the rest of Bharat.

In the month of September, our scientists, with their talent, had caught the attention and earned the praise and sympathy of the scientific community of the entire world when they landed Chandrayaan’s “Vikram” on the hitherto unexplored region, the South Pole of the Moon. Although the mission did not attain full success as expected, achieving so much in the first attempt itself is a feat not accomplished so far by the entire world. Due to this daring mission of our scientists, the world’s admiration for our country’s intellectual genius and scientific prowess and commitment to realise the goals through hard work has increased. The matured intellect and action of the people, an awakened sense of pride in the country and firm commitment of the government along with experience of our scientific expertise— all these pleasant feelings have made the last year memorable forever.

However, this is not the time either to revel in the given pleasant circumstances or become lazy and let down our guard and loose our interest, become inactive, indulge in luxury and selfishness, leaving everything to the government. Our ultimate goal – making Bharat glorious and prosperous – towards which we have started our journey is still far off. The forces, seeking to create hurdles in the path and block the way, have not yet stopped their machination. There are some crises before us, which needed to be overcome. There are some questions, which need to be answered by us. And there are some problems for which we need to find solutions to tackle them.

As far as crises are concerned, there are always circumstances where there are problems in the life of an individual or the world. Some crises are visible. Some come to the fore later. As long as our body, mind and intellect remain alert, healthy and responsive, the possibility of successfully tackling the crises will also increase. Fortunately, the security capability of our country, preparedness of our armed forces, security policy of our government and the situation of our expertise in international politics– in all these aspects the situation has developed to such a level that we remain alert and confident. The security alertness along our land and maritime borders is better now. However, the number of guards and checkposts on land borders, and surveillance along the maritime border, especially on islands, have to be increased. The terrorist violence has declined in the country. The number of terrorists surrendering is also on the rise.

Still, for a human being, there is always a fear of a possible crisis from within as well. The agents that cause many a trouble reside in the body. If the body’s immunity comes down their impact becomes visible, otherwise, there won’t be any hassle.

We all know that, in the past few years, there has been a transformation in the direction of the thought process of Bharat. There are many people in the world and in Bharat as well, who do not want this. A developed Bharat creates fear in the minds of vested interests: such forces will also not want Bharat to be strong and vibrant. Unfortunately, the prevailing state of social unity, equality and harmony in Bharat is not up to the desired level. These forces are seen to be taking advantage of the situation. Diversities of caste, creed, language and region are being used to separate one from another; turning them to differences; widening the fault-lines already existing in the society; imposing fabricated identities on manufactured separations, thereby creating diverse and conflicting streams in the national mainstream – such efforts are underway. It is essential to be alert in identifying these plots and counter them on intellectual and social planes. Even well-meaning policies, decision or statements coming from persons in the government or administration are used by misinterpretation or distortion, to benefit their nefarious designs by these forces. Alertness is a constant necessity. While all these activities are underway, there is an overt or covert effort to create disaffection towards the civil discipline and law of the land. This must be countered at all levels.

Nowadays, there have been reports that members of a community in our society have been attacked by another community, making them victims of social violence. Such incidents have not been one-sided. There are reports of incidents happening from both sides and allegations and counter-allegations. It has also come to light that some incidents have been deliberately fabricated while some others have been published in a distorted manner. However, it must be accepted that these tendencies of violence have somehow or the other crossed the limits of the law and order and wreaked havoc by eroding the mutual relations in the society. Neither this tendency is the tradition of our country nor does it fit in the spirit of the Constitution. Howsoever deep the difference of opinion be, howsoever provocative actions might have taken place, still, we should act by remaining within the limits of Constitution, handing over such cases to the police and reposing faith in the judicial system of the country. This is the duty of the citizens of a free nation. The Sangh has never supported the people who were involved in such incidents and it stands against each and every such incident. Swayamsevaks are working in this direction so that such incidents do not take place. But by branding such incidents by the words like ‘lynching’, denoting the traditions which were alien to Bharat and belong elsewhere, efforts are underway to defame our country and the entire Hindu society and create fear among the so-called minority communities. We have to understand that such a conspiracy is also being hatched. Everyone should keep away from talking in provocative language or indulging in provocative acts. The so-called leaders—who in the name of advocating the interests of a specific community create clash in between the two communities of our society and have made an industry out of their pursuits for self-aggrandisement—should not be patronised. Adequate laws exist in the country to curb such incidents. They must be honestly and strictly implemented.

Different sections of the society should strive to increase goodwill, dialogues, and cooperation among themselves. In today’s context, it is absolutely important to work for the goodwill, harmony and cooperation among all sections of society and follow the discipline by keeping ourselves within the limits of Constitution while expressing our ideas or working for the protection of our interests. The Sangh Swayamsevaks have been taking efforts to enhance this type of dialogues and cooperation. Even then, decisions on some matters are required to be taken by the courts. Whatever be the decision, it is the duty of responsible citizens that they should not hurt the mutual goodwill through words or deeds. It is not the responsibility of any one community; it is the responsibility of all. Each one should follow it and start with oneself.

Slowing down of the world economy has left its impacts everywhere. Many countries including Bharat must suffer the resultant of the ongoing global trade war between the US and China. The government has taken many initiatives to tide over the situation in the last one-and-a-half months. This gives a definite indication of the government’s sensitivity towards people’s interests and its prompt and pro-active attitude. We will definitely come out of this cycle of so-called recession. The personalities leading our economy are competent enough.

To strengthen the economy, the government is compelled to take steps such as allowing Foreign Direct Investment and disinvestment of industries. However, while implementing many government schemes and welfare policies at the lower level, more alacrity and efficiency and avoiding unnecessary stringency can set many matters right.

Forgetting the Swadeshi consciousness, while seeking answers to the pressures of the situation, will also lead to loss. Dattopant Thengadi considered ‘Swadeshi’ as an expression of patriotism in day-to-day life. Acharya Vinoba Bhave described it as self-reliance (Swaavalamban) and non-violence (Ahimsa). As per any yardstick, those who have got the capacity to be self-reliant and provide employment for all in the country, keeping themselves secured, can only build and expand the international trade relations and offer a secure and healthy future for the entire humanity. Considering our economic scenario, even if we have to choose any circuitous route, we must overcome the compulsions once and for all by setting a destination and direction based on our own strength.

However, to minimise the impact of other immediate crises and the ups and downs of the world economy on our financial system, we need to go to the basics and ponder. We have to formulate our own economic vision keeping in mind our requirements, profile and condition of our people and our resources and potential to realise our national aspirations. The prevailing world economic thought is unable to answer many questions. Its standards are also incomplete in many ways; this fact has come before several economists of the world. In that situation, we have to take steps to formulate our own economic vision, policy and system that instil in us capacity to create more and more employment with least consumption of energy that is beneficial for the environment, make us self-reliant in every respect, and create and expand trade relations with the world on the basis of our strength and terms.

We are lagging behind in thinking about this ‘Swa’ even decades after attaining Independence, the root cause behind this is the education system, which was contrived during the period of slavery to keep us slaves, and the same is being continued even after attaining freedom. So we have to give a shape to our educational framework also in tune with Bharatiya vision. Evidently, when we study about the countries, which topped in the field of education in the world, we find that the reason of their academic excellence is the attention they have given to the Swa-centred education. We need a relevant, logical, truthful, dutiful education system, based on an approach on the basis of love towards the whole universe and compassionate outlook towards all living beings, which gives comprehensive knowledge and pride about our language (Swa Bhasha), our attire (Swa Bhoosha), and our culture (Swa Sanskriti). We feel the need for a radical transformation from curriculum to teachers’ training. This cannot be achieved through mere structural changes.

Along with the absence of these components in education, degradation of culture and unethical and immoral behaviour in the society are the reasons behind the two major issues in social life. In a country where women were revered as mothers (matruvadparadareshu), where big wars were waged to protect the self-respect of women that became subject of the great epics Ramayan and Mahabharat, where martyrdoms like jouhar took place to safeguard the chastity, there the spate of incidents which are happening today indicates that our mothers and sisters are not safe and secure both in family and society; this is matter of shame for all us. We have to make our mothers enlightened, self-reliant, and capable of self-protection. The sanctity and decency of our culture is to be instilled in the men’s approach towards women.

We all know, right from childhood this training starts in the family atmosphere. Sheer absence of this is seen in today’s nuclear families. Another frightening symptom of this is the growing level of drug addiction in the new generation. There was a time when even the youth of a culturally rich nation like China were made drug addicts by foreign powers, rendering them soulless. The prevention of the devastating consequences of this social evil will be a very difficult task unless our families cultivate a strong mentality to abstain from temptation of durgs, incline towards moral life, and keep away from getting allured; thus, avoid these dangers. In this regard, it is imperative that all guardians including the Sangh Swayamsevaks remain alert and active.

Rampant financial and character corruption, which is being experienced in the society, primarily emanates from this cultural degradation. From time to time, in order to control this, laws are being made and examples are set by severely punishing the corrupt persons. Though healthy and clean corrective measures are taken at the top level, the corrupt practices continue to take place at the low level. And, at times, apparently making use of these controlling measures, corruption is growing. In the perplexity of following the stringent laws, honest persons suffer and get entangled in difficulties, and those shameless and defiant who disregard law and morality flourish by circumventing the system. This is not just government’s responsibility. The greed to amass more without deserving, without any or less effort, has crept into our minds in the form of a perversion, is the root cause of corruption. In the social atmosphere, transforming the situation through awakening and setting examples of ideal conduct in households, is an inevitable responsibility for health and order of this country.

Media have a major role in awakening the society and creating a conducive social atmosphere. Coming out of the commercial attitude of churning out mere spicy and sensational contents, if the media join in creating a constructive atmosphere, this endeavour will gain momentum.

Just as the situation in our society underscores the need for us to wake up and think about making the atmosphere healthy, similarly the external environment of the entire world demands a broad initiative of the humanity. The policy initiative to make the environment healthy is a subject related to the process of ushering in appropriate and inclusive changes in the environmental policies of all nations. However, taking necessary steps towards bringing in minor changes in the day-to-day behaviour of common people is also effective in this direction. The Sangh Swayamsevaks are also doing many such works in this field. To make all their activities more systematic, an endeavour namely ‘Paryavaran Gatividhi’ has started as a social project.

For the last nine decades, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has been working for creating ekatmata (unity), sadbhavana (goodwill), sadacharan (good conduct) and sadvyavahar (good behaviour) in the society, and a clear vision and devotion towards the nation. It is quite evident that the service mentality and devotion of Swayamsevaks have created a trust all over the country. However, attempts are being made to create distrust, fear and hostility among sections who have not yet come in contact with the Sangh. The Sangh is organising the Hindu society: a relentless and misconstrued campaign is going on to extrapolate this to mean that it harbours hatred against those sections, especially Muslims and Christians, who do not call themselves Hindu. There is an orchestrated effort to malign the Hindu society and Hindutva through a number of baseless and slanderous allegations. Behind this nefarious design, there is a thought process, which is relentlessly working to keep our society divided and make use of it for its self-interests. This is so clear that only those who deliberately keep their eyes shut don’t grasp it.

The vision and proclamation of the Sangh regarding the identity of the nation, social identity of all of us, and the identity of the country’s nature, are clear, well-thought-of and firm that Bharat is Hindustan, Hindu Rashtra. In the view of the Sangh, the word Hindu is not confined to just those who call themselves Hindus. Those who belong to Bharat, those of who are descendants of Bharatiya ancestors, those who are working for the ultimate glory of the nation and joining hands in enhancing peace by mingling with each other and accepting, respecting and welcoming all diversities; all those Bharatiyas are Hindus. Whatever may be their mode of worship, language, food habits, lifestyle, and native place, those will not make any difference. Strong person and society are fearless. Such strong people, with unblemished character, will not frighten anyone. Only the weak people, due to fear born out of their feeling of insecurity, will try to frighten others. The Sangh is making the whole Hindu society such strong, virtuous and benevolent that it will not fear or frighten anyone, but save the weak and the frightened.

The confusing concept of the word Hindu, the imagination of confining this to the framework of religion has been distracting our intellect right from the time of the British. There is a section of society, which does not accept this word. They use the term Bharatiya for themselves. Some people address the civilisations based on the Bharatiya nature and culture as Indic in English. Those who use alternative words for themselves, out of fear or confusion, and negate the word Hindu, are also acceptable for the Sangh. Words may be different, ways and customs and mode of worship may be different, food habits and lifestyles may be different, nativity may be different, state and language may be different, but we are not considering those sections of society different from each other. Accepting all those as our own, the Sangh work goes on. This feeling of affinity and inclusiveness is the consciousness of the nation. That is Hindutva. The sacred goal of fulfilling the relevant, all-round glory of our ancient nation and preserving as well as enhancing the Dharma Pran nature and culture, is at the core and destination of this affinity.

For the world, Bharat is an absolute necessity. Bharat has to stand on its own strong foundation of nature and culture. So with this clear concept about the nation and its pride in mind, it is necessary to make the feelings of goodwill, good conduct and harmony strong in the entire society. In all these endeavours, the Sangh Swayamsevaks have a significant role to play and will continue to do so. The Sangh Swayamsevaks are active in making the plans useful for this a success. Accepting the challenges of the times, each Swayamsevak has to work for this.

However, this need of the hour will be fulfilled only when we do away with the mentality of leaving the responsibility of this task upon an individual or organisation and become a mute spectator. The task of achieving progress of a nation, finding solutions to the problems of society, seeking redemption of crises: all these cannot be outsourced. Someone or the other may take up the task of leading, from time to time, but it is impossible to attain the complete and eternal success unless the enlightened society with a clear vision, selfless and honest effort and impenetrable unity do not volunteer to intervene with strong force.

The Sangh is working to create Karyakartas who are able to build congenial atmosphere for this work. The activities carried out by these Karyakartas in the society and their impact have proved today that this is the right way to make us, our family, our country and our world happy.

This is the appeal to you all, taking into account the requirements of current period, we all should participate in this noble and sacred mission.

“युगपरिवर्तन की बेला में, हम सब मिलकर साथ चलें

देशधर्म की रक्षा के हित, सहते सब आघात चलें

मिलकर साथ चलें, मिलकर साथ चलें..”

(“Yugparivartan ki bela mein, hum sab milkar saath chale

Desgdharma ki Raksha ke hit, sehtey sab aghat chale

Milkar saath chale milkar saath chale..”

Meaning: In the era of transformation, let’s all walk together, For the sake of protecting the nation’s righteousness, endure all adversities and move forward, Let’s walk together, let’s walk together..)

Bharat Mata Ki Jai

Victory to Mother Bharati (India)

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2018

We have assembled here to celebrate the auspicious occasion of this year’s Vijayadashami. This year is the 550th Prakash Parv of Shri Guru Nanak Dev ji. When our entire society, by forgetting the truth inherited from the ancient tradition and the natural self of Bharat, got itself neck deep in a cesspool of hypocrisy, falsehood, selfishness and divide; became weak, defeated and disintegrated; and was getting fragmented by repeated thrashing of the brutal atrocities perpetrated by the cruel, intolerant, savage foreign invaders from across the border, Shri Guru Nanak Deo ji showed a new path of self-enlightenment based on the spiritual practice commensurate with the times through his life, gave the society a new life of oneness by ameliorating the strayed tradition. It is his legacy that gave the country a magnificent and majestic tradition of 10 gurus who removed our state of penury and inferiority.

Mahatma Gandhi, whose 150th birth anniversary is being celebrated, provided the political foundation of truth and nonviolence to the independence movement of the country. This unique struggle for freedom was an outcome of the continuous enlightenment provided by the very same inclusive culture, based on love and truth, as propounded by several great personalities of this country from time to time. All such efforts inspired the common man of the country to come out of his home and stand firmly with a moral force against the British oppression. The remembrance of martyrdom, sacrifice and dedication of hundreds of our unarmed countrymen, who were encircled from all sides and became victims of General Dyer’s bullets, hundred years ago while opposing the repressive and unjust Rowlett act and demanding freedom in the Jaliawala Bagh at Amritsar, invokes the same moral force in us.

It is imperative to mention these relevant reminiscences this year because although our country has achieved a significant level of progress in many sectors during the 71 years of Independence, we have yet to move forward in many other dimensions of progress in our all-encompassing national life. Several forces whose selfish designs are being defeated or hindered because of our progress as a well organized, strong and prosperous country have not retracted from plotting skullduggeries to block the path of our nation. We have yet to cross many a hurdle. We can achieve this feat by treading the path of those great ancestors who have established such hoary ideals and propagated them in the society by their exemplary life based on truthfulness, piousness, penance, affection and sacrifice. The same message is evident when we see the present play of hope and despair in the country when we take a glance at the national scenario.

National Security 

Border Security and internal security of the country are the issues of foremost consideration as they ensure space and opportunity to the nation for making efforts towards prosperity and development. Fruitful efforts have been undertaken to entwine the web of international relations by appraising the nations with our security concerns and getting their backing and cooperation. The military, government and administration has displayed its clear intent to maintain peaceful and cordial relations with all the countries including the neighbouring ones in words and deeds, at the same time standing and acting firm and making prudent use of our capabilities while initiating bold actions wherever necessary in the context of national security. In this regard efforts are being initiated and accelerated to enhance the morale of our armed and security forces, making them well-equipped and to provide them with latest technologies. This is one of the reasons that the prestige of Bharat is rising in the world.

Along with this, it is essential to be more attentive in enhancing the basic amenities of armed and security forces and their families. There have been some laudable efforts in this regard by the government. A thought must be given as to how its implementation can be expedited. From administrative point of view, it is imperative that the planning and implementation of these schemes have to pass through the military officers and civilian administrative authorities and Departments like Home, Defense and Finance. All these actors need to be more sensitive and respectful to the endeavours of these forces and their readiness to make a supreme sacrifice even by putting their lives at stake is a natural expectation that comes up in many discussions. Every countryman needs to keep this in mind that such an expectation is sought from the society as well, as it is from the government and administration. It is utmost essential that our brethren fighting for the security of the society across the border and within the country wherever required do their tasks without any worries for the social security and wellbeing of their families. After the change of guard in the country across our Western borders, any decline in its overt and covert provocative activities especially in the states like Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, neither has happened nor was expected.

In view of the dynamic international developments, safeguarding of our maritime borders has also assumed greater significance. There are hundreds of islands at various distances in the coastal area of Bharat adjacent to the mainland. All these islands including Andaman Nicobar are situated at strategically important locations. From the security point of view, their maintenance and strengthening of the facilities there has to be attended and implemented as a matter of urgency. Expeditious attention needs to be given to have coordination, cooperation and resources among Navy and other forces guarding the maritime borders and islands. Our brethren habituating along the land and sea borders are firmly holding the ground with determination despite facing several challenges peculiar to the border areas. If their wellbeing is taken care of, these locals in the bordering areas can also be of great assistance in tackling problems like infiltration, smuggling etc. Both the government and society need to take more efforts so that relief, education, healthcare facilities and employment opportunities reach them in time, and they are imbued with patriotism, valour and virtues.

The country cannot be assured about its security without the total self reliance in the field of defense production even while continuing with the multilateral exchanges wherever necessary. The pace of national efforts in this direction has to be accelerated.

Internal Security 

The issue of internal security is equally important along with the border security of the country. The Union, as well as the State governments and administrations should sternly deal with the violent activities of elements, motivated or moved from inside as well as outside the borders, who challenge the law, Constitution and sovereignty of the country, is one of its remedial aspects. The Union and State governments and police and paramilitary forces are successfully undertaking operations in this regard. They will have to continue it with incessant vigil. But it is a matter of fact that such elements who take part in violent and evidently illegal activities come from our own society. At the root of this is ignorance, dearth of development and amenities, unemployment, injustice, exploitation, discrimination and absence of sensitivity and sanity of our society essential in an independent nation. The Government and administration do have a role to play in alleviating this. But a greater responsibility lies with the society. An atmosphere of warmth and goodwill needs to be propagated by eliminating all such discrepancies within the society and embracing these brethren of our society with dignity and affection. The societal manifestation of this will have to start with the refinement of one’s own conscience and conduct. An intimate and regular contact will have to be maintained with all sections of the society by becoming part of their thick and thin.

It is felt that Central and State governments have to be more transparent and should exhibit greater efficiency and sensitivity in effective and timely implementation of several plans, sub plans and various provisions made for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled tribes. Police forces are the first to take the call with respect to internal security. The National Police Commission has also made recommendations for reforms in their systems. It is necessary to ponder over these recommendations pending for several years and make efforts towards such reforms.

Disturbing Trends

The establishment running the country and the society at large need to show alacrity in assuring progress, empathetic response, transparent and respectful behavior in the efforts for upliftment of the weaker sections of the society. The lack of all this makes it easy to sow and grow the seeds of doubt, detachment, imprudence, rebellion, hatred and violence in these sections that are severely affected due to the deprivation, injustice and negligence. Taking advantage of this, the forces with selfish motives desirous of using them as cannon fodder in the anti-national and criminal activities play deceitful games among them. This trend can be understood by everyone from the continuous efforts during the last 4 years to give a specific tone to the agitations originated in some undesirable incident in the society, old and new issues bothering different sections of the society and long-standing or emerging demands. The selfish power-hungry politics with sheer disrespect for the social harmony, legal and Constitutional discipline and with an eye on votes in the upcoming elections have been apparently clear behind these machinations. But this time an atmosphere of divergence, separatism, violence, acerbic hatred and going to the extent of fueling anti-national sentiments is being created by exploiting these grievances. The leading faces of the groups from whom the slogans like ‘भारत तेरे टुकड़े होंगे’(Bharat you will break into pieces) were emanated, have been at the forefront with their provocative speeches in such incidents at some places. When the violent activities in remote forest areas were dealt with firmly, those leading and abetting violence were seen at the forefront of these agitations as votaries of Urban Naxalism. To start with, an ideological follower group is created through a network of small groups and regular contact in the student hostels. Then, by infusing rabid violent acts in small and big agitations, giving anarchical experience, the fear of law and administration and the civic discipline is being systematically eroded among those followers. On the other side, scorn and hatred is generated within the society and against the prevalent establishment and leadership. Through such incidents getting instantaneously violent, thought leadership in all sections of the society – which by and large stays within the social order and civic discipline – is sought to be suddenly discredited. To establish a new, unfamiliar, uncontrolled, outrightly biased Naxal leadership with blind followers solely committed to them is the ‘Neo – Left’ doctrine of these urban Naxals. Their cohorts already established in social and other media, intellectual circles and other institutions are associated with such activities from start to finish. They execute this by defending such activities through intellectual and other methods, through delusory public campaigns related to agitations, while keeping a safe distance and maintaining their so-called eminent positions. They are experts in freely using deceit and poisonous provocative language to make their vicious campaign even more potent. Treasonous activity by taking help from enemies of the nation is considered as an additional skill. It can be unmistakably seen if we investigate the source of the content and narration in their social media campaigns. The actual presence of Jihadi and terrorist elements in one way or other in such incidents is a common factor among all these. So the emerging conclusion in this is a bigger canny conspiracy in collusion with forces from within and outside the country. It no more remains just a power politics by the opposition, but in this process, politically ambitious individuals and groups – either knowingly or unknowingly – and weaker sections, crushed under deprivation and neglect get drawn as ammunition unknowingly or unwillingly. Through the manufacturing of vicious and hostile atmosphere that weakens and destroys the social cohesion – essentially the bedrock of internal security of a nation – a world of psychological warfare is being carved out. This is called as ‘Mantrayuddh’ in our traditional Rajneeti Shastras(political science).

To eliminate such tendencies, the Government and administration have to alertly ensure that such incidents, of which trouble mongers can take advantage of do not take place. At the same time, they will have to keep a constant vigil on such incendiary elements and forces so that they are not able to perpetrate such nuisance. Slowly, in the absence of any support from society, these incendiary elements will be completely defused. The administration has to make its intelligence gathering mechanism more comprehensive and alert. The schemes for the public good will have to reach the last man of the society through their prompt implementation. It will have to work with skill and diligence to ascertain law and order.

But an accurate and complete mitigation of these circumstances is possible only when all sections of the society interact with the disposition of kinship and goodwill in thought and heart. We need to see the diversity of sects and religions, castes and sub-castes, languages and provinces as expressions of unity. The entire society should own problems and conditions specific to any section of society to find a just and amicable solution through a cordial dialogue. An atmosphere where there can be uninterrupted friendly dialogue should be nurtured through greater contact and camaraderie. Citizens should follow the ambit of law and order and public discipline in their daily life. In this connection, every citizen and politician may remember the famous speech by Hon. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar delivered on 25th November 1949 wherein he advocates that without all pervasive fraternity in the society, it is not conceivable for the country to move in the direction of justice, freedom and equality and to attain social democracy along with political and economic democracy. The safety of these democratic values and our independence can be endangered without these. The means we adopted to raise our concerns when we were British subjects may be done away after attaining independence. We need to adopt only Constitutional methods, within the ambit of the democratic discipline.

Bhagini Nivedita has also considered civic consciousness as the manifestation of patriotism in the daily life of a citizen.

Necessity of Sanskar(righteous values) in the family 

A firm and absolute consensus on these issues among the polity, judiciary, executive, local administration, organizations, dignitaries and common public and a feeling of intimate oneness in the society can be the only guarantee of stability, development and security of the country. These virtues should be instilled in the new generation of society from childhood itself at home, in schools and through social activities. Today, it has become pertinent that the younger generation gets the foundational virtues of humanity and good character in family life. Nowadays, the education curricula and the general atmosphere of the society almost lack these values. Time is running out in the wait for the implementation of the new education policy. Even though there are many individuals and organizations making efforts for these changes both at societal and government levels, our home and family are always in our hands for making such efforts. It is necessary to see whether we are fulfilling our responsibility towards the new generation to shape their minds with virtues of natural affection, self discretion, family and social responsibility and by setting our own example of prudence in an informal and pious environment or not. A need is being felt world over to be extra attentive due to the changing times. With the increasing reach and influence of media, gadgets with newer technologies that make individuals self-centred and expose them to right and wrong information and knowledge of the world without taking into cognizance their discretionary abilities, it is all the more necessary to acquire the values of family traditions. A discretionary capacity needs to be generated in the young generation with affection and our own example, for accepting the worth emanating from the new world with an open mind; and to guard themselves and others against the evil on the basis of our value system.

The news reports about incidents of suffering in families, indebtedness, immoral behavior and rape from the near and dear ones, suicides, caste conflicts and discrimination in the country are definitely a matter of concern and pain. Ultimately, the solutions to these problems lie in creating an affectionate and family atmosphere and social harmony. In this perspective, the entire society, including luminaries and leading intellectuals, need to take up the duty in this direction.

Integrated thinking

All those who are leading the society in various fields should keep in mind that every action, speech and thought of ours should nourish all including the individual, family, society, humanity and the environment. Nowhere in the world, healthy and peaceful social life has ever thrived and can thrive, merely based on the laws and fear of punishment. Society abiding by laws is not the reason but the result of its ethical standards derived from the comprehension of the traditional social values. To adopt the customs and conventions with changing times, one may change the ethical practices and rules but by remaining firm on the edifice of values. The real and complete Justice is done by interweaving of the four elements in consonance, namely, the natural instincts of desire and wealth that form the societal functioning; ethics that restraints such instincts, making them useful and giving through them satisfaction and happiness with pleasure; the legal system that ensures that society and families follow this discipline enshrined in these ethics; and the comprehension of values being the decisive factor in all these. The decisions taken without considering all aspects and patiently creating the mindset of the society, will neither be adopted in actual practice, nor will they help in creating a new social order in tune with changing times and positions. The situation arising out of the recent verdict on Sabarimala temple shows the similar predicament. The nature and premise of the tradition that has been accepted by society and continuously followed for years together were not taken into consideration. The version of heads of religious denominations and faith of crores of devotees was not taken into account. The plea by a large section of women, who follows this tradition, was not heard to. The legal verdict has given rise to unrest, turmoil and divisiveness in the society in place of peace, stability and equality. The questions such as why only the Hindu society experiences such repeated and brazen onslaughts on its symbols of faith, obviously rise in the public mind and lead to unrest. This situation is not at all conducive for the peace and healthiness of the society.

‘Swa’ based systems for an independent nation

Bharat’s progress will have to be achieved by rejuvenating all precincts of national life, being rooted in its eternal ethos. Whatever is available within the country will have to be rectified, reformed or if necessary, completely discarded as per times and situation; and accepting whatever is noble and useful around the world and adapt them as per the requirements of the country; Both these decisions would be based on the same ethos. This is the characteristic trait of our nation. This is ‘Hindutva’. Any country can progress by being resolute and steadfast on its original character, and not by blind copying.

The administrative sensitivity, alacrity, transparency and totality in the implementation of good policies of the Government are still not up to the expectations. Resultantly, the outcome of those policies is not percolating down to the last man standing in the society. The foreign British rule and administration were merely overlords of the land and territories. In the Independent Bharat, our rulers are expected to make the administration people centric.

Political freedom is not complete. All the dimensions of national life have to be reorganized on the basis of ‘swa’ (self) and self-esteem that inspired us and breathed our life with the sense of ‘we the people’ during the freedom struggle. Aspirations of people of Independent Bharat have been articulated in the four different parts of our Constitution, namely, the preamble, fundamental rights, the directive principles, and fundamental duties. We will have to establish our own model of development in the light of these provisions. Our goals, directions and accordingly all aspects of national life, including the economic one, must be steered with this spirit. Then all our efforts and policies will be seen as fully implemented and fruitful.

Even after adopting the noble principles from the world, it is absolutely essential for the progress of the nation that we devise our own distinct model of development and corresponding framework based on our philosophical foundation.

Shri Rama Janmabhoomi

In this very same context of honouring the ‘Swa’ of the nation, Sangh has been associated with the sentiments of crores of countrymen, in the efforts of constructing a magnificent Ram temple at the birthplace of Shree Ram who is the personification of the life energy of the nation and an icon of upholding Dharma. The place of Janmabhoomi is yet to be allocated for the construction of the temple although all kinds of evidence have affirmed that there was a temple at that place. There is an obvious game-plan of a few elements to stall the judgment by presenting various newer interventions in the judicial process. It is in nobody’s interest to test the patience of the society without any reason. The construction of the temple is necessary from the self-esteem point of view; it will also pave the way for an atmosphere of goodwill and oneness in the country. This matter of national interest is being obstructed by some fundamentalist elements and forces that play communal politics for selfish gains. Despite such machinations, the decision regarding ownership of the land should be expedited, and the Government should clear the path for construction of the grand temple through appropriate and requisite law.

Elections

Who would lead the nation? Are prevalent policies right or wrong? All these things have to be decided by the ordinary voters every five years, as a part of his ordained duty, in the democratic system of our country. Such five-yearly elections are approaching ahead. In a way, through this right, we the people of Bharat, common citizens become the adjudicators and controllers of our national scenario. But we also know that the decision we make on that single day of the election makes us bear the brunt of good and bad effects in the short term as well as the long-lasting gains and losses for many years, sometimes throughout the lifetime. We are left with nothing else in our hands after that single day. If we have to get the verdict which will not lead to repentance then the voters will have to rise above self, parochial feelings, petty egos of caste, language and provincial affiliations, keeping in mind that the national interest is supreme. The voters will have to ponder over dispassionately upon the sincerity and capability of the candidate, commitment of the party on the issues of national interest and for the integrity of the nation and experiences of past and present actions of both candidates and parties.

The characteristic of democratic politics is such that no one can be considered as completely right or wrong. In such a situation, non-voting or using the provision of None of the Above (NOTA) goes in favour of the one who is most ineffective. So, 100 per cent voting is essential keeping in mind national interest as supreme without getting swayed by the campaigns of all the sides. The Election Commission of Bharat also appeals for the hundred per cent voting and conscience voting. The RSS swayamsevaks have always been abided by this as a duty as citizens and will do so this time as well.

Since its inception, RSS has kept itself aloof from the party politics and the politics influenced by castes and creeds and will continue to do so. But the number of Swayamsevaks spread all over the country, should fulfill their duty as citizens and stand in favour of putting their strength behind the overall national good. This is an essential task in the national interest.

Appeal

The existence of a powerful, virtuous and organised society based on the distinct axiom of ‘Swa’ of the nation is the fundamental and essential prerequisite of national well-being. That identity is Hindu identity that teaches us to respect all, accept all, unite all and do good to all. That is why Sangh wishes to establish a strong, invincible organised Hindu society and will comprehensively achieve this goal. Those sections of the society who consider themselves ‘separate’ because of their religion, tradition and lifestyle or apprehensive of the word ‘Hindu’ need to understand that Hindutva is the eternal ethos of this country. While keeping its core eternal values unchanged, there had been changes in its content and conduct commensurate with times and situations and will happen so in the future as per the needs. Hindutva has intrinsic identification with the undivided land of Bharat from the Himalayas up to the seas. All the Bharatiyas should immerse themselves in the hue of Bharat’s culture ingrained in its ethos is a sincere wish of the Sangh. The practices of all the sects and traditions of Bharat derive themselves from this cultural ethos. The luminaries, who have toiled hard and devoted their lives to protect and nourish the society, are our ancestors and the symbols of prestige to all of us. Hindutva is behind Bharat’s capacity to embrace the entire universe with acceptance and appreciation of all its distinct diversities. That is why Bharat is the Hindu Rashtra. An organised Hindu society is the bedrock of unity, integrity and sustainable progress of the nation. The acceptance of eternal Hindutva ethos is the panacea for fundamentalism, petty selfishness, unrestrained consumerism arising out of hardcore materialism and insensitivity. Therefore, organizing Hindus is a mission leading to universal good, Bharat’s welfare, and wellbeing of humanity.

It is an appeal to all of you to be part of this sacred divine task, in cooperation with the Sangh Swayamsevaks, to carry forward Bharat’s chariot of destiny in order to put Bharatmata(Mother India) at the pedestal of Vishwaguru.

नहीं है अब समय कोई, गहन निद्रा में सोने का,

समय है एक होने का, न मतभेदों में खोने का।

बढ़े बल राष्ट्र का जिससे, वो करना मेल है अपना,

स्वयं अब जागकर हमको, जगाना देश है अपना।।

।। भारत माता की जय।।

(Nahi hai ab samaya koi, gahan nidra mein sone ka,

Samaya hai ek hone ka, na matbedhon mein khone ka

Badhe bal Rashtra ka jisse, who karna mel hai apna,

Swayam ab jaagkar humko, jagana desh hai apna

Bharat mata ki Jai

Meaning: Now there is no time to sleep in precious slumber, It’s time to unite, not to get lost in differences. To strengthen the nation, that is our common goal, We must awaken ourselves to awaken our country.)

Victory to Mother Bharati.

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2016

Honourable chief guest, respected special invitees, gentlemen, mothers, sisters, Mananiya Sanghachalaks and dear Swayamsevak brothers,

After completing 90 years of the sacred Sangh work, the period of Yugabda 5118, i.e. 2016 C.E., in which we are celebrating the Vijayadashami festival, has a special significance. Last year I had mentioned about the Centenary celebrations of Pandit Deendayalji Upadhyay. The Centenary programs are going to continue this year also. This year we will be renewing the hallowed memory of more such great historical personalities, to follow whose life and teachings, we feel, is all the more important in the present conditions.

This is the millennium year of Acharya Abhinavagupta’s life. A realized soul, he was also the foremost among the proponents of Shaiva Darsana. Along with propounding the concept of “Pratyabhijna,”( recognition or realization of one’s true divine nature) being a multidimensional personality, he had even dealt with empirical subjects like poetry, drama, music, language and phonetics and made most authoritative, seminal and everlasting contributions to enrich such varied subjects. The theoretical analysis he presented on “sound” is not only a treatise that speaks on the efficacy of “sound” to lead one to God-realization, but also a subject for deep study for modern computer scientists. But, of all achievements, the greatest achievement of his lifelong penance was that he could resuscitate from the soil of Kashmir the salient feature of the Sanatana culture that helps one to see unity in diversity. And, in spite of being an ardent follower of the Shaiva school of thought, he had studied with utmost reverence the thoughts of other sects as well and imbibed their spirit. He gave the message of pious living and harmonious view field with love and devotion through his own life example and teachings, merged and became one with Shivatatwa, at a cave – the “Bhairav Gupha” – of Birwa near Badgaon in Kashmir.

This is also the millennium year of the birth of the renowned saint from the south, great Ramanujacharya, the author of “Sreebhashya.” He, who had travelled on foot all the way from the south to Delhi to retrieve the festival idol of the revered deity from the Sultan’s court, had also shown the largesse to habilitate the Sultan’s daughter, who had turned into a devotee of the deity, in the temple. He had also thrown open the doors of Bhakti(devotion) and Jnana(knowledge) for all, totally denouncing the differences of caste, religion, etc. Establishing social equality and practicing Dharma in its pristine form in his life, he was able to invigorate the sense of equality and fraternity throughout the nation.

This year, we are also celebrating the 350th birthday of the tenth Guru of the Sikh Panth, Sree Guru Govind Singh, who had donned the dual mantle of a statesman and a preceptor (Meeri and Peeri) to protect the nation, society and Dharma, as also to uphold our self-respect and annihilate wickedness. Recalling the Guru’s total commitment and relentless struggle to the cause of the nation and Dharma, Swami Vivekananda also had exhorted the Hindu youth to emulate his example, in his famous address at Lahore.

This year also marks the birth centenary of Prajnachakshu Sree Gulabrao Maharaj. He, who called himself the “daughter” of Sant Sree Jnaneshwar, had made painstaking study of our own as well as foreign works on spirituality and empirical sciences. During the shameful period of British slavery, he, through his irrefutable logic based on our own traditional wisdom and modern scientific theories, had established the loftiness of Swadharma, Swadesh and Sanskrithi(one’s own duty, homeland and culture) and reinforced our self-confidence. He had further made unequivocally clear through his voluminous works that the future progress of science, its humaneness, its meaningfulness and the harmonious synthesis of all the religions in the world is possible only by making our spiritual culture their foundation.

If we carefully study the situation that we have been facing for the last one year, we will certainly be convinced of the need for us to follow the teachings of these four illustrious great masters.

Although there is scope to accelerate development and more has to be done to fulfill certain aspirations, by and large, the policies adopted by the government have resulted in dispelling away the sense of disappointment previously discernible all over the country, and had built some measure of confidence, therefore the nation, it appears, is moving forward. At the same time it is obvious – and expected in the democratic model we have adopted – that the political parties, who could not make it to the echelons of power, are busy formulating strategies for their political gains, to focus on the shortcomings and inadequacies of the government and the administration. In democracy this very thought-churning is expected to bring forth a consensus for the path of progress of the country and to serve as a tool for critical analysis, improvement and alert supervision of policies. However, the picture we have been seeing in the past one year, giving us a clear vision of the dirty tricks being played, is a matter of grave concern. Those who take even a cursory look at the situation prevalent in our country and the world at large, know that the fundamentalist, extremist, divisive, and selfish forces in the world, for whom an efficient, united and self-confident Bharat with an able government is an eyesore, are busy spreading their tentacles all over the country. Since we have not been able to fully eliminate the differences, divisions and the parochial feelings from our social life, once in a while, some untoward incidents happen here and there. Misusing such incidents, or fomenting trouble over them, or in the name of non-existent issues, these inimical elements, with the idea of maligning the government, administration and the benign forces like the RSS, which are capable of thwarting their evil designs, are dragging them into unnecessary controversies so to create a bad impression about them in the minds of the people. The aspirations and character of these forces, which are at loggerheads and even fight among them, clearly show that they even join hands to achieve their common or individual selfish aims. So, there is an urgent need to take necessary protective steps to guard against walking into the trap of their deceit and subterfuges, aimed at creating an atmosphere of division and antagonism in the society.

Sangh Swayamsevaks have stepped up their efforts in this direction. In many states, survey of existing condition with regard to social equality is in progress and efforts are also on to prepare people’s minds to find a solution to this problem through the Sangha Shakhas in various villages and locations. For instance, in the Prant called Madhya Bharat by the Sangh, detailed survey of 9000 villages has already been completed. It has come to our knowledge that presently, in 40% villages discrimination prevails on the issue of temple entry; in 30% villages discrimination prevails in the matter of sources of water; and in 35% villages discrimination prevails on the use of crematorium. And efforts are being made to find solution to these problems. Swayamsevaks have also started helping our scheduled caste and scheduled tribe brethren to claim the benefits guaranteed to them under the Constitution, and also to ensure that the government and the administration disburse the funds allocated for their welfare. Sangh Swayamsevaks, according to their strength, wisdom and capacity, would certainly strive to achieve social equality. At the same time, individuals and associations who stand for social good should become more active in the matter. It will certainly be a shame on the 21st century Bharat, if one’s own innocent kin have to bear insults and physical onslaughts, because of one’s wrath over a trivial issue or one’s superiority complex, which also facilitate the divisive forces to take benefit out of it to tarnish Bharat’s image and also to slow down the momentum of good social welfare activities being carried out all over.

Protection, enrichment and growth of indigenous varieties of cows that form a significant part of our cattle wealth, is one of the mottos spelt out in the Directive Principles of our Constitution. And according to the belief and tradition of the Bharatiya society, it is a sacred duty. Not only the Sangh Swayamsevaks, but many saints and other people throughout the country are also carrying forward this work as a sacred mission, remaining strictly within the framework of the Constitution and law. Modern science has acknowledged the utility and greatness of indigenous cows. In many of our states, cow-slaughter and cruelty to animals are prohibited by law. But sometimes in some places in these states, the Go-sevaks have to do active campaigns to ensure proper implementation of such laws. But they cannot be compared with those undesirable elements, who raking up the issue of cow-slaughter or spreading unfounded rumours about cow-slaughter, are busy serving their narrow personal or political ends. Nevertheless, the sacred mission of the Go-sevaks (cow caretaker)would continue and gather momentum.  In keeping with independent India’s democratic spirit and decorum, in spite of grave provocation, our law-abiding people have been carrying out all their activities without violating the law and they will continue to do so. While ensuring that the laws for the prevention of cow slaughter are flawlessly implemented and general law and order is also strictly maintained, administration should not weigh the law-abiding citizens and anti-social elements on the same scale. In the event of such incidents, politicians, while taking sides with an eye on political gains, along with ensuring that the moves they make do not lead to further widening the schism, should also see to it that their thoughts, words and deeds are helpful in lessening the feeling of hatred and ill-will and this is what society expects of them. Some sections in the media also, in the hope to enhance their commercial gains, are in the habit of sensationalizing the reporting of such issues by blowing them out of proportion, they have to resist this temptation. All have to bear in mind that freedom and equality could be achieved and consolidated only on the strength of the quantum and intensity of fraternal feeling in the society. And the nation will be in a position to face the challenges before it only on the basis of this strength. As dense clouds of threat to security, unity, sovereignty and integrity loom large even today, it is all the more necessary to take forward the tradition of goodwill promoted by great seers like Sree Abhinavagupta and Sree Ramanujacharya.

The present conditions in the whole of Jammu & Kashmir make our concern all the more confounded. The diplomatic moves made so far at the international level, and the strong resolve of the government and the Parliament in the matter are welcome steps but to implement the policy with firmness is also important. Major areas of the Kashmir valley, Jammu and Ladakh are less disturbed and the situation in these areas is well under control. There is an urgent need to promote, consolidate and establish nationalistic activities and forces in these areas. To rein in the internal and external forces of disruption active in the disturbed areas, it is necessary for the Central and State governments as well as the administration to work in tandem, adopting a common policy, with a definitive attitude. There should not be any compromise whatsoever on the principle that the whole of Kashmir, including Mirpur, Muzzafarabad, Gilgit and Baltistan, is an inseparable and integral part of Bharat. There is an urgent need to rehabilitate with honor and security and ensuring all-round welfare, our Hindu brethren, who had migrated from those areas, and the Pandits, who were forced out of the Kashmir valley. During the partition, Hindus, who were domiciled in areas assigned to Pakistan, had migrated to Bharat and the then Jammu & Kashmir government had assured and asked them to settle in the state. They should be given all rights of citizenship in the state also. The discriminatory approach of the state administration towards Jammu and Ladakh also should be ended immediately. Only if the Jammu & Kashmir government and administration act with a nationalistic feeling, and perform in a clean, considerate, impartial and transparent way, the people of the state will certainly have simultaneous feeling of victory and confidence, and the process of assimilation of the people of the valley will move forward.

Presently, the whole world is aware that the subversive activities constantly promoted from across the border are mainly responsible for the disturbances in the Kashmir valley. It has also come to knowledge that some groups active in the border areas of Bharat and having different countries of the world as the hub of their operations, indulge in subversion, violence, terrorism, smuggling of drugs and narcotics, are hand in glove with such elements. In such a situation, the terrorist attack on our Army camp at Uri has underscored the need for continuous preparedness on the part of our combat forces, and the level of perpetual coordination and cooperation needed among the Army, Defense Forces and Intelligence Agencies, as also the heavy price we have to pay even for a moment’s distraction. I heartily congratulate our government and our valorous soldiers and all the wings of our Armed Forces, who, through an efficient and expert move, have given a firm and befitting reply to this wanton attack. This firmness and the efficiency shown in the matter of diplomacy and defense should permanently reflect in our policy. Keeping a watchful eye on the maritime boundaries as well as the frontier areas, the administration and the people should, with mutual cooperation, root out all forms of antisocial activities and the forces behind it.

Full cooperation of the law-and-order machinery of the states, is also essential. In our country, we are following the federal system. While honouring and honestly implementing it, all of us, especially the leadership of our different political parties, in a honourable and credible way, should always remember that, whatever the system of governance and administration, and with all forms of diversity among our people, from time immemorial we have been one people, one country, one nation and in future also, we have to keep ourselves as one. Our thoughts, words and deeds should be to cement and further fortify this oneness, and not to weaken it. Those who give leadership in different walks of our social life, should be disciplined enough to display this sense of responsibility. Along with this, necessary mechanism should be put in place to prompt our people also to behave with this sense of responsibility.

The discussions and deliberations going on during our country in the last many years on our educational policy- The purpose of education is to improve efficiency, developing the sense of responsibility, and cultivating national and social consciousness in an individual- is of great importance. And because of these efforts some sort of consensus seems to have emerged to the effect that educational facilities should be easily available and at cheaper cost. Education should equip an individual to earn his livelihood, make him self-reliant, self-respecting and also make him confident about earning his livelihood. Along with acquiring knowledge and learning, he should have a sense of responsibility, congenial attitude as a citizen, and be a good person leading a life based on values. Education should be such as to meet these demands and the curriculum should be suitable to satisfy these needs. Training of teachers and planning about their welfare should be in a fashion to enable them to acquire necessary qualification and competence to carry out their sacred mission of imparting education effectively. Government and society should participate in the educational field and both should together guard against commercialization of education. After the new government at the Centre took over, a committee was appointed to go into the matter and the committee has already submitted its report. It remains to be seen whether the recommendations of the committee are in sync with the wisdom of the educationists and activists in the education field. The blueprint of a suitable framework required to bring about a shift in the direction would be available then only, or else, the consensus would remain a mere pipedream.

However, for the education of new generation, along with what one gets from schools, colleges and universities etc., the atmosphere created by all sorts of social activities and programmes, from family to festival, are important places. Do friendly dialogues between the older and younger generations take place in our families? Do such dialogues lead to gradually cultivating the sense of social responsibility, personal and national character, respect for values, commitment to work, affection, and an urge to resist the attraction of vices, in youngsters so as to mould their character in a proper way? Do the elders by their behavior set an example for them to follow? Who else than we can find answers to such questions? Our experience shows that when children develop proper behaviour, aim and good tendencies at home, then only they work hard to pursue studies and show the discretion to put it to proper use. It is necessary that such dialogues should start and continue, and many saints, men and organizations are engaged in promoting such dialogues. In Sangh also, “Kutumbaprabhodan” is one such activity, in which our Swayamsevaks are very active. Rather than waiting for someone from outside to take the initiative, we have to start the process in our families on our own.

Different programmes, festivals, campaigns, etc., being organised at the social level, are intended to impart social education and culture. But, at times, they lose their spirit and turn into hollow and meaningless rituals. If at all we take care to restructure them, keeping in mind the demands of the changing times, and organise them at social level, they will still prove to be the best instruments for social education. In Maharashtra, groups organising Sarvajanic (Public) Ganeshotsavas at many places have conducted many good experiments. Also, so many useful suggestions have come up regarding new-year (Varshapratipada) celebration. It is necessary to encourage, support and emulate usefully reformed programmes and festivals. Some new initiatives have been made at the governmental and non-governmental level, and it is for social activists and our Swayamsevaks to motivate more and more people to take part in such activities. Keeping in mind the importance of programmes like planting trees, Swachchh Bharat Campaign, Yoga Day, etc. in cultivating social cohesion, social self-reliance, social feeling, etc., our Swayamsevaks have been taking part along with other people in such programme and, as a result, they have been able to add to the perfection of these programmes, apart from making them more attractive and effective. And we will continue to do so. The innate organised state of society is the root cause that ensures perfect order, integrity, peace and progress of a nation and the world, and it is on the basis of this truth, the Rashrtiya Swayamsevak Sangh has been working continuously for the last 90 years and moving ahead.

Traditionally, our society has been conducting itself with much diversity. Our dexterous ancestors had realized the eternal unity behind the many-hued diversity in the entire creation, underlying and pervading the apparent diversity. It was their extreme penance that led to the birth of our Rashtra as an instrument to teach this truth to the whole world, and it is to accomplish this sacred mission it continues to exist. As this teaching process has to continue till the end of creation, this Rashtra also will continue to live till such time. Hence, our Rashtra is called “Amar” or deathless. The world that is enmeshed in materialism and the cobweb of self-generated quarrels is once again in need of this teaching, and, on our part, this is the time for us to move ahead discharging our duty and prove the rationale behind our existence.

Studying and understanding our Sanatana Dharma and culture, deeply entrenched on the strong foundation of the truth of unity of the entire creation, in the light of modern age, we have to present them as a living example before the whole world in its new form suitable for the time, location and circumstance, on the strength of our organized, mighty, non-exploitative, equitable, complete and rich national life. Emancipating ourselves from the wrongful influences caused by centuries-old slavery and self-forgetfulness, we have to formulate our national policies based on our own traditional genius. For this, we have to imbue our hearts with our great and lofty eternal values, ideals and culture. Through our life and deeds we must show to the world that, as a nation, we are marching ahead with self-confidence, finding answers to all sorts of painful problems that have been nagging the world for millennia. And this is the sum and substance of the message the great saint Gulabrao Maharaj has given us through his voluminous works and his life-long penance.

The government should move in this direction with firmness, and the administration should implement the government policies in this direction with efficiency and enthusiasm, and both should perpetually ensure that, to the last man in the last row, everyone is happy, fine and safe and enjoys a life of contentment. On the other hand, the people also, remaining harmonious, organized and alert should help the government and the administration and, if needed, should exercise their control, which is necessary for the progression of our national life. If all these three entities move in tandem in the same direction with perfect planning and mutual understanding, then only we will be able to ensure our victory, defeating the evil designs, subterfuges and treachery of the demoniac forces and overcoming the difficulties and adversities we have been facing.

The task is very difficult. But we have no other alternative but to accomplish the task. We have the legacy of Sree Guru Govind Singh, who, through his own illustrious life-example, has proved beyond doubt that even things that appear to be impossible could be achieved with strong commitment, valour, total dedication, detachment and selflessness. And it is for us to pursue this ideal with dedication, with all our might.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is the organization that is working for only this mission of infusing the Samaj(society) with such divine qualities creating a helpful atmosphere by providing living examples. To organize every individual through selfless and unadulterated love and equip him to identify himself with the aim of taking this sacred Hindu Nation to the pinnacle of glory in the world, to make Sakha Sadhana that helps one to cultivate physical, mental and intellectual faculties through common and simple programmes, and to depute such “Sadhaks” according to their efficiency, as and when necessary, in different spheres of our national life to do the required work with a spirit of service, is the programme taken up by the  R.S.S.

I have already briefly mentioned about the activities like Samarasata, Gou-samvardhana, Kutumbaprabodhan, etc., aimed at bringing about the required change in the Samaj urgently. But it is necessary for the entire society to become active in this direction. During the nine days of “Navatri,” gods – the noble human-force of that time- coordinated, harnessed and consolidated their might and, on the tenth day, decapitated demons like Chanda, Munda and Mahishasura to relieve humanity of their burden. And today is Vijayadashami, the festival of victory. Now before taking leave of you, along with praying to you for the soothing shade of your love and encouragement for the national mission taken up by the R.S.S., I also humbly solicit your increased cooperation and participation.

I offer my good wishes to all of you on the occasion of Vijayadashami, with the prayer:

“देह सिवा बरु मोहे ईहै

सुभ करमन ते कबहूं न टरों।

न डरों अरि सो जब जाइ लरों

निसचै करि अपुनी जीत करों।।

अरु सिख हों आपने ही मन कौ

इह लालच हउ गुन तउ उचरों।

जब आव की अउध निदान बनै

अति ही रन मै तब जूझ मरों।।”

।। भारत माता की जय ।।

(Deh siva baru mohe ehey

Subh karman te kabhun na taro

Na daro ari so jab jaai laro

Nischey kari apuni jeet karo

Aru sikh hon aapne hi mann ko

Eh lalach hao gun taon uccharo

Jab aav ki aoudh nidaan bane

Ati hi ran mein tab jhunjh maro.

Meaning: O Shiva! Shower this blessing on me:

I should never hesitate doing noble deeds.

I should have no fear as I enter the field to fight the enemy:

I should be determined to win.

With a view to teaching myself,

I should ever continue to eulogize you.

When my end approaches,

I should die fighting in the field of battle.

(Victory to Mother Bharati)

 

 

Address by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Sri Vijayadashami Utsav 2015

Honourable Chief Guest of Today’s program Dr. V. K. Saraswat, other invited guests, revered citizens, mothers, sisters and beloved Swayamsevaks :-

Today, we are gathered here to celebrate our annual festivities of the Vijayadashami Parva. 90 years have elapsed since the Sangh work was started. This year is the 125th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. He made a lifelong struggle against the injustice of social inequality and made provisions in the Constitution thereby eradicating those discriminations from the political and economic spheres of our national life. In Shri Guruji’s (second Sarsanghchalak of RSS) words, his talent was a confluence of Acharya Shankar’s Sharp Intellect and Tathagat Buddha’s unbounded compassion.

Last year was also the 125th Birth Anniversary of Parampujaniya Dr. Hedgewar (founder of Sangh). He envisioned creation of a prosperous Bharat as example for the whole world to follow, through collective efforts of an egalitarian society. The evolution of a technique to create honest and selfless workers, striving incessantly and wholeheartedly to achieve this goal was his lifetime contribution. Birth centenary of Late Shri Balasaheb Deoras, an expert in this technique and the third Sarsanghchalak of RSS, is also to commence this year. Late Pandit Deendayalji Upadhyay, who was nurtured in this technique, had suggested an integral approach called Ekatma Manav Darshan, adopted to modern times for the nation, based on the eternal values of Bharatiya Philosophy. His birth centenary has also commenced.

By a pleasant coincidence, this is also the 1000th year of coronation of RajRajeshwar Rajendra Chola, a royal who had established a model of good governance in Bharat and had promulgated in Southeast Asia the benevolent influence of the eternal Bharatiya culture. Rejecting all disparities based on caste and creed, and breaking all the barriers of superstitious traditions, Shri Ramanujacharya made the path of Bhakti for all the sections of the society, thus paving the way for social harmony. Preparations are going on at the social level to celebrate his 1000th birth anniversary in the coming year. This is also the 1000th birth anniversary of great Shaiva philosopher from Jammu-Kashmir, Acharya Abhinav Gupta. The celebration of the 5151st Anniversary of our revered Bhagvad Gita, which conveys the message of doing Karma without expecting any of Phala(Fruition), and the principles of “Karmasu Kaushalam”(performing one’s duty with skilland efficiency) and “Samatva”,( a state of mental calmness, composure, and stability, especially in challenging or difficult situations) will be continued till the Gita Jayanti.

Two great souls departed us this year. Our Ex President, Dr. Abdul Kalam was one who had dedicated his life towards instilling confidence and national pride in our young generation, while constantly urging them to achieve the best for our country in all walks of life. Swami Dayanand Saraswati, by being a Vedic teacher, provided a modern view of our eternal culture and aroused pride and activism about it in our society and the world at large. Both of these eternal souls etched the message of the glory of Bharat and social unity through their work.

The reason behind remembering all these coincidences today is to draw our attention to the call of our innate duty to build up a prosperous, efficient and egalitarian Bharat, to bring peace, prosperity and progress, right from our families to the whole world. To accomplish this goal, based on the strength of an organized society, is the point of contemplation today.

The resurgence of a self-reliant, strong, prosperous and secure Bharat, giving benevolent and flourishing leadership to the world, is possible only when an egalitarian, organized and enlightened society with self esteem strives towards this end; not only that, the firm resolve of such a society will reflect on the policies of our democratic system and the constitutional authorities who run the system. Agile, clear, accurate policies as well as discretion of a society which is free of selfishness and divisiveness are mandatory requirements to change the destiny of nation and, therefore, it is essential that both should complement each other.

With this picture in mind, when we ponder over the present situation in the country, we get a very optimistic and soothing view. An atmosphere of disappointment and lost faith, which existed couple of years back, has evaporated. An atmosphere of expectations has come to fore, generating a sense of optimism that such expectations shall be fulfilled. It has to be made sure that these positive vibes reach the last person in the row, by turning it into an actual experience by bringing about a real positive change in his life; his trust in the bright future of his own personal life as also of national, should grow.

It is becoming evident to all that Bharat’s esteem in the world has gone up many-fold in the last couple of years. In view of Bharat’s national interest, many proactive steps have been taken to improve bi lateral relationship with the neighbouring countries, with successful results. It seems that the world is being introduced to a new modern Bharat. The World is experiencing a Bharat, which is full of self-respect and self-confidence, maintaining the traditional view of goodwill towards all but, at the same time, unhesitatingly taking stand in very clear terms, in international diplomacy whenever national interests are involved, and giving a helping hand to nations in distress anywhere in the world. Bharat is reincarnating itself into an altogether new manifestation and the world is enchanted to see Bharat’s new Avatar with utmost optimism. Bharat’s Gita, Yoga and Tathagat have a universal acceptance like never before. Keeping in view the need to develop goodwill for Bhartiya psyche and tradition and to protect and enhance its prestige, Policies are being formulated at the administrative level.  All the developing nations of the world are looking forward to Bharat’s leadership to emancipate them from the undesirable influence of the so-called world powers. Throughout its chequered history of rise and fall, Bharat has always treated the whole world as its own family. On account of its agility and strength, Bharat has always followed the tradition of finding the balance between national interests and world interests, with utmost integrity towards both, and today we are gradually experiencing the glimpse of same age-old diplomatic approach. It is necessary that this effulgent picture of Bharat is imprinted in the mind of the World as well as in the mind of every individual of the land. Hence, it is vital that we should make all walks of our national life vibrant with a new thought and new valiant efforts.  So, creating a new picture of the society capable of adopting policies and systems in keeping with modern times and, at the same time, based on the foundations of the eternal truth, which forms the substratum of our immortal national life, is the need of the hour.

We must come out of “Saheb is always Right” (“Saheb Wakyam Pramanam”) mentality. Making Bharatiya mind and soul as the basis, we should adopt whatever is good, truthful and fair from the rest of the world and create an independent modern roadmap for our nation. The thoughts and actions of intelligentsia, administration and policies of government should be transformed accordingly. In the absence of this synergy, it will not be possible to present a Bharat that is self-reliant, egalitarian, strong and prosperous. Deficiencies of the thought processes and philosophies, which prevailed for centuries in the world, are being scientifically proved. The ill-effects of such deficient thought process and philosophies are even more compelling to ponder over the very same thought processes and philosophies have made review of them all the more compelling.

In 1951, Social and economic department of United Nations, supporting these deficient philosophies had made following proclamation:

“There is a sense in which rapid economic progress is impossible without painful adjustments. Ancient philosophies have to be scrapped; old social institutions have to disintegrate. Bonds of caste, creed and race have to burst and large numbers of persons who cannot keep up with the progress have to have their expectations of a comfortable life frustrated. Very few communities are willing to pay the full price of economic progress.”

It was an extremely materialistic, self-centred and insensitive philosophy that was forced upon the world. When the ill-effects of the very same philosophy started affecting the proponents of this philosophy, they made a sudden U turn. In October 2005, the conclave of the Governors of Central Banks of the G20 countries declared:

“We note development approaches are evolving over time and thus need to be updated as economic challenges unfold. —— We recognize there is no uniform development approach that fits all the countries. Each country should be able to choose the development approaches and policies that best suit its specific characteristics while benefitting from there accumulated experience in policy making over last decades, including the importance of strong macroeconomic policies for sustained growth.”

Bringing more clarity to the statement above, News Bulletin of World Bank in 2008, said:

“In our work across the world we have learnt the hard way that there is no one model that fits all. Development is all about transformation. It means taking the best ideas, testing them in new situations and throwing away what doesn’t work. It means, above all, having the ability to recognize when we have failed. This is never an easy thing to do. It is ever more difficult for an organization to do so, be it the government or the World Bank, which constantly need to adapt to the changing nature of developmental challenge.”

After this self-realization, phrases like ‘Holistic’ and ‘Sustainable development’ started appearing in the world discourse over development talks. Environmental concerns also find some place in this discourse. So, it will be prudent to free ourselves from the tendency to accept this deficient philosophy as the ultimate truth since it in itself is going through the cycle of experiment- experience- change. It would be better if we stick to our time-tested philosophy. This philosophy is based on cooperation and coordination. According to this philosophy, Dharma and Sanskar are at the forefront of Life and not Arth-Kaam. For sustainable development, this philosophy encourages least use of energy, maximum employment, sensitivity towards environment, ethics, and the wholesome approach to agriculture. It suggests a decentralized and self-reliant economic and industrial order. There is a major emphasis on skill development and increased productivity. As per this philosophy, success of the system is judged on the fact whether the last person in the land is getting justice, education and basic needs of life. Hence the major emphasis has to be on farmers and agriculture, small and medium scale industries, small traders and craftsmen. All organizations, intellectuals, policy makers, political class and administrators working in the socio-economic field have to take a note of this.

It is pleasurable to note that the manifesto of Niti Ayog is giving clear indications in the same direction. It is obvious that this metamorphosis will not take place suddenly. It would be a challenge to bring inherited economy back to normal state, balance political compulsions, and straighten administrative machinery. We ought to keep whole lot of patience to see the fruition of our efforts to take the benefits of development to the lowest strata of society and enlist their participation in the nation-building. We would like to see steady increase in their confidence towards nation building exercise. Mudra Bank, Jan Dhan Yojna, voluntary surrender of cooking gas subsidy, Swatch Bharat initiative, and skill development are some useful initiatives of the present government, in the same direction. It is essential to get credible data, both qualitative and quantitative, from the grassroots level to measure the efficacy of our developmental policies. It is also necessary to hold fruitful dialogues to ensure the participation of all in the nation building exercise and speed up the execution of the program.

Efficacy of all the policy measures aimed at changing the destiny of the nation will very much depend upon the enterprising spirit, capability to cooperate, and the wisdom of masses. To achieve it, enlightenment and training of society is a prerequisite. While speaking about development, population growth is one related aspect, which is much talked about. We need to seriously ponder our population policy. It must be discussed whether population is a boon or bane? Whether the current systems and resources would be adequate to provide employment and basic amenities to masses after 50 years from now? How much manpower would be required to run our systems effectively? Quiet often, it becomes mother’s responsibility in bringing up children and inculcating values in them. Hence diet, healthcare, self-respect, empowerment, enlightenment, opportunities and freedom to make use of those opportunities by our mothers need to be ensured by our system. Are our systems turned for the same? What is our anticipation regarding the condition of our environment after 50 years? Facts and figures of last two census reports and the imbalances that have come to notice as a result are being widely discussed. Our present and future is getting impacted by the same. We need to rise above vote bank politics to formulate a holistic approach, equally applicable to all citizens, towards the population policy. Such a population policy cannot be enforced by our governments or laws, all alone. Considerable efforts are required to tune society’s psyche to the same. It would be prudent to think about the same during policy making exercise.

To bring about a change in the natural instincts and behavioral patterns of humans, customary religious practices, and cultural traditions, in accordance with current times is often, too tricky. Even if this change is appropriate, it cannot be accomplished by just bringing in a law or making law enforcement agencies to enforce the law. It never happened this way and it will never happen this way. It can only be accomplished through a respectful dialogue with concerned entities. This dialogue and the efforts to enlighten the society through the dialogue, needs to take place at all the levels be it the government, administration, media or intellectuals in the society and it should consistently continue before and after such changes. We should not be guided by cheap popularity or political incentives. What is truthful and just should be our guiding principle. By adopting a compassionate approach towards every section of society, we can change their approach through a friendly and respectable dialogue. The anguish some sections of people felt as a result of some reasoned judgments could have been avoided. For example, Santhara, peculiar lifestyle of Digambar Acharyas, Bal-Deeksha (initiations of children as recluses), etc., are some of the age old practices prevalent in the Jain community. To bring about changes in such matters without consulting the Acharyas of the respective sects about the reason, importance and philosophy behind such practices, will affect social cohesion and harmony and finally harm the nation. It has been a tradition in every sect/religion in our Country to introspect about their rituals and practices at regular intervals and attunes such a rituals and practices to current times and circumstances. This is the healthy way of bringing about necessary changes. All such changes have always come from within. Any external attempt to bring about such changes has always ended up only in controversies. Success in any systemic change is achieved only through changing the social psyche.

Education system is an important tool for social transformation. In recent years, we have been observing commercialization of education. Getting more and more expensive, it is going beyond the reach of an ordinary citizen. Hence the purpose which education is expected to fulfil, is not taking shape. Apart from imparting formal education, education also aims at shaping a complete man, who is wise, self-respecting, self-reliant, compassionate, efficient and cultured. With this integral approach to education, many experiments are going on within as well as outside the country. We should take cognizance of all these experiments. Results from these experiments, and the suggestion made by various organizations, educationists and panels should form the basis for all the aspects of education be it curriculum, fee structure or management of education. Education should be society based. Education should be oriented towards fulfilling its goal as well as contemporary requirements of society. And in the light of these limits there should be freedom to chalk out the education system. To ensure that education is not commercialized; government needs to make sure that government educational institutions also are run well at all levels. This process starts with the quality of teachers we have. We need to have effective training and maintain standards for teachers. More than anything else, we need teachers who realize their responsibilities.

However, the role of parents and society is equally important. Do we tell our children that it is more important to have a meaningful life than a successful life? Is our behaviour such, which instils the values of truthfulness, justice, compassion, sacrifice, patience and good behaviour? Is our generation ready to tread this path in social and professional fields with insistence and agility, ignoring petty gains? Do we – the social and political leadership – and media, care to see that our walk and talk leads the society, particularly new generation, towards national integrity, social harmony and ethical behaviour?

To say that Governance and economy and other systems drive human behaviour – “Yatha Raja Tatha Praja”. Hence our policies should unite the society; caring for the uplift of the weakest link of the society, they should achieve progress for everyone in the society. We need fundamental reforms in our electoral practices, administration, tax systems, public health system, and industrial, educational and agricultural policies to make them more effective and people oriented. Hostilities by Pakistan, expansionism from China, rising fundamentalism and chauvinism in the world order, and unfair international diplomacy, resulting in rise of terrorist outfits like ISIS, are acting as a catalyst to already complicated and serious internal and external security of our country. Fostered by external powers and inspired by external ideologies, some people from within are walking the path of terrorism. It goes without saying that it is government’s responsibility to come out with a comprehensive and a firm policy to root out all such problems ones and for all. Ethical education should be made part of the education policy so as to preserve our social and cultural values intact and thwart all attempts at destroying our culture. There is a view that media should be regulated while conserving their freedom to ensure that no ill effect, knowingly or unknowingly, prevails in the society. It is fair to expect that all the promised dreams are realized and became a reality fast. But this is also true that governance is driven by the will, quality of thoughts and organized state of the society. When a self-realized, righteous and holistic society starts walking with determination on the path towards national glory, the systems and apparatus of nation follow and become helpful in the transformation. A nation becomes prosperous, safe and capable only when government, administration and public at large are on the same page on the issues of identity of nation, national pride, and credible integrity towards nation, and are ready for constant efforts with focused contemplation.

What is the chord that can keep our diverse society together? (1) Certainly, it is our eternal culture – Hindu culture – that accepts and respects all forms of diversity and which precisely forms the nature and value system of every Bharatiya.  (2) The very culture, based on which our ancestors build their lives, toiled hard to nurture and foster it, and even sacrificed their live for its protection and honour, even to this day, their glory is a source of inspiration and ideal for us. (3) This divine motherland endowed with richest and wealth, who helped us realize the truth that formed the foundation of that culture and the Dharma born out of it, whose abundance of divine wealth nurtured us and made us magnanimous, the love and devotion for whom we inherited from our ancestors, such motherland of ours, even today has the power to arouse the creative spirit of every individual of this country. Through these three factors an individual can easily be assimilated while keeping one’s diverse identity of language, region, sect and party intact. Also, even while safeguarding one’s smaller identity, one becomes part of the larger social identity. The humanitarian spirit, vision and philosophy based on the above three factors, the decision in conformity and equally matched practice is what is called Hindutva.

This lifestyle of Hindu society, from time immemorial, even long before the term Hindu was coined, evolved in keeping with the time on the basis of above three factors. The onus of good and bad of this nation rests only on their shoulders.

For last 90 years, RSS has been constantly trying to galvanize the energies of Hindu society for nation building. Sangh founder Dr. Hedgewar had very well understood that the task of nation and society building cannot be entrusted on contract. When an efficient and organised society works persistently for the betterment of nation for a long time, then only the nation becomes prosperous. The mission of RSS is to prepare such workers who can organize the society for this noble cause. Today, everyone can see the impact created by Swayamsewaks coming out of the easy and simple modus operandi of RSS. Now they not only get respect and affection from a grateful society, but also the recognition of the whole world.

Come, let us all become Swayamsewaks and be part of this sacred work, because this is the only way to build the Bharat that the world inevitably looks forward to for a new opening. The Bharatiya society has to become perfect and organised on the strength of their eternal identity. Soaked with the nectar of our Dharmic Values that ends all divisiveness and is capable of infusing the whole humankind with the feeling of fraternity by giving them real freedom, let us individually and collectively endeavour to accord happiness, peace and redemption to human race. This is the way out and we have to do it.

 

हिन्दू हिन्दू एक रहें

भेदभाव को नहीं सहे

संघर्षों से दुःखी जगत को

मानवता की शिक्षा दें।।

“भारत माता की जय”

(Hindu hindu ek rahe

Bhedbhav ko nahi sahen

Sangharshon se dukhi jagat ko

Manavta ki shiksha de

Meaning : Hindus should be united

They should not bear discrimination

Teach humanism to the world

that is suffering from the struggles)

Victory to the Mother India)

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