Forces trying to divide society to prevent India's rise; nation must become strong to lead the world: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat
Nagpur, June 4
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday asserted that India is destined to emerge as a global leader based on the principles of Dharma, but warned that several forces are actively working to create divisions and unrest in society to prevent the country's rise.
Addressing the public valedictory function of the RSS Karyakarta Vikas Varg-Dwitiya at Reshimbagh Ground in Nagpur, Bhagwat said, "There are forces trying to divide society and create instability through various means. Efforts are being made, both directly and indirectly, to influence and weaken our cultural values and traditions. Despite these challenges, India must move forward and successfully fulfil its responsibility of showing a new path to the world based on Dharma," he said.
Stressing that moral correctness alone is not enough in international affairs, Bhagwat said nations must possess strength if they want their voice to be heard.
"The world listens to those who have power. Merely being right does not ensure that your views are accepted. Global events repeatedly demonstrate that strength determines influence. Powerful nations often act according to their own interests, while weaker nations are left with little choice but to accept the consequences," he said.
Without naming any country, Bhagwat referred to ongoing global conflicts and said even nations with no direct involvement in international disputes are forced to bear their economic and strategic consequences. "Whether it is conquering a country, dropping bombs, or cutting off oil supply, all this happens because of power," he said.
The RSS chief said India must become "Param Vaibhav Sampann", a nation endowed with strength, prosperity and character, not with the aim to dominate others, but to provide leadership rooted in civilisational values and collective welfare.
"India does not seek greatness to wield a stick over the world. India is a Dharma-centric nation. It seeks to become great so that it can offer direction, balance and harmony to humanity," he said.
Bhagwat also said that favourable conditions for India's progress are emerging, and public sentiment is increasingly aligned with the country's growth and development.
However, he cautioned against pessimism, saying people often focus excessively on crises and uncertainties while ignoring their own strengths and capabilities.
"Those who remain prepared, disciplined and confident in their own strength are the ones who successfully overcome adverse circumstances. India must build a society of capable, virtuous and committed individuals to create an environment that can support national transformation," he said.
He added that the RSS continues to work towards preparing such individuals who can contribute to nation-building and help India fulfil its larger civilisational mission.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the vision of a strong India, I worry about the constant emphasis on "external forces" dividing us. Sometimes the biggest threats to unity come from within - like poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education. Let's focus on fixing our own house first before claiming to lead the world. Just my two paise.
"Param Vaibhav Sampann" - now that's a powerful phrase! We need to build not just economic strength but moral and cultural strength too. The RSS has been doing yeoman service in this regard for decades. But we must ensure that this strength is used for global good, not domination. India's civilizational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is our greatest gift to the world.
As an American living in India for 5 years, I find this speech fascinating. The idea that "might makes right" in global affairs is sadly true. But I hope India's rise doesn't mean adopting the same power politics that America and China practice. Your dharma-based approach could genuinely offer something different. Just be careful about the "forces dividing us" narrative - it can sometimes be used to suppress dissent.
Finally someone speaking truth about global politics! We've been too naive thinking being "right" is enough. Look at what happened to Ukraine, to Palestine - might does decide outcomes. But I have one concern: when Bhagwat Ji says "strength", I hope he means all-round strength - economic, technological, military AND social justice. A strong India must also be a just India for all its citizens. 🙏
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.