Speaking at a global faith summit in New York, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat clarified that excluding Muslims from Bharat is contrary to the essence of Hindutva, emphasizing unity and shared humanity.

  • RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the 'One World: One Humanity' summit in New York.
  • He stated that excluding Muslims is not part of the Hindutva ideology.
  • The RSS is currently conducting a global outreach program for its centenary year.
  • Bhagwat emphasized that RSS service projects do not discriminate based on religion.

In a significant departure from narrow interpretations of religious identity, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has asserted that a Hindu who seeks to exclude Muslims from the fabric of Bharat cannot truly call themselves a Hindu. Addressing the 'One World: One Humanity Faith Leaders' Summit' in New York, Bhagwat underscored the principles of inclusivity and service that the organization aims to project during its centenary year.

Responding to concerns raised by Muslim community members regarding the concept of 'Hindu Rashtra,' Bhagwat provided a definitive clarification. He noted that when asked if Muslims would be driven out, his answer was a firm 'no.' He articulated that the essence of Hindutva does not lie in exclusion, but in the historical tradition of Bharat providing sanctuary to all denominations seeking refuge.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this statement marks a strategic pivot in the RSS's global communication strategy. As the organization enters its 100th year, there is a visible effort to rebrand its core ideology from a purely nationalist framework to one rooted in 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). This is crucial for maintaining influence among the Indian diaspora and engaging with global religious leaders.

'Where there is "me" and "mine", there is no solution. "We" and "ours" is the solution.'

Bhagwat further highlighted the scale of the RSS's social work, mentioning that over 1,30,000 service projects are currently being managed by Swayamsevaks across the country. He emphasized that these projects serve people based on need rather than religious or caste affiliations, reinforcing the organization's claim of non-discriminatory service.

Historical Background

Founded in 1925, the RSS has grown into one of the world's largest volunteer organizations. Its centenary year marks a period of intense global outreach. Bhagwat's current tour, which includes the US, UK, and Canada, is designed to engage with Indian-American business leaders, community heads, and spiritual centers to project a vision of a unified and service-oriented Bharat.

Did You Know?: The RSS is currently celebrating its centenary year with a massive global outreach program spanning multiple continents.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the main theme of Mohan Bhagwat's speech in New York?
The main theme was unity, service, and the inclusive nature of Hindutva during the RSS centenary year.

2. How does the RSS approach social service according to Bhagwat?
According to Bhagwat, the RSS performs service without discrimination, focusing solely on the needs of the individual.