Delhi: In a statement during the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that India’s population is inherently rooted in Hinduism, asserting that there can be no non-Hindu in the country. He highlighted that the nation’s cultural and civilizational ethos has always been shaped by its core Hindu identity, which underpins India’s social, religious, and political fabric.
Bhagwat traced India’s historical challenges, from Islamic invasions to British colonial rule, noting that these periods tested the resilience of India’s ancient cultural values. He argued that the RSS was founded by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in 1925 to strengthen Hindu unity and awaken national consciousness in response to internal divisions and the growing influence of the Muslim League. From its humble beginnings with just 50 volunteers, the organization has now completed a century of efforts to preserve and promote these foundational values.
Speaking in Bengaluru, Bhagwat stated that India’s concept of a “Hindu nation” does not exclude anyone, but rather emphasizes inclusion of all communities within the framework of India’s civilizational ethos. Drawing upon historical examples, he referred to statements by leaders like Ghulam Nabi Azad and Farooq Abdullah, who recognized that many Indian Muslims have their roots in Hinduism, highlighting the interconnectedness of India’s cultural and religious heritage.
Bhagwat underscored that India’s inclusivity is embedded in its ancient Sanatan culture, which, according to him, has always encouraged coexistence among different faiths while maintaining its civilizational identity. He further linked this perspective to the Constitution, noting that citizenship is defined for those born in India or whose parents were born in India, reinforcing the idea that India’s nationhood is grounded in its historical and cultural ethos, rather than allowing unchecked migration.
The RSS leader also reflected on India’s broader civilizational mission, suggesting that the country’s cultural resurgence could serve as a model for national cohesion and global leadership. According to Bhagwat, recognizing the deep-seated Hindu roots of the nation is not meant to marginalize others, but to strengthen the inclusive and integrated identity of India.
Bhagwat’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about cultural nationalism, historical identity, and the role of Hindu ethos in modern India. He emphasized that nurturing the awareness of India’s civilizational heritage is essential for social harmony and national pride, while ensuring that the country remains inclusive of all communities and faiths.
