RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat made a strong case for inclusivity, stating that the essence of Hinduism lies in embracing everyone. Speaking at the ‘Gyan Sabha,’ a national education conference in Kochi, Bhagwat addressed common misunderstandings about Hindu identity and emphasised unity over division.
“Being a staunch Hindu does not mean opposing others,” he said. “There’s a misconception that strong religious identity equates to hostility, but this is far from the truth.”
Bhagwat’s message was clear: True Hinduism is about acceptance, not exclusion. He stressed that those seeking to unite Hindus must remember this foundational principle. His words come at a time when religious discourse in India often turns polarising.
The RSS chief also spoke about knowledge, distinguishing between ‘vidya’ (true knowledge) and ‘avidya’ (ignorance). He highlighted how both play crucial roles in shaping a person’s material and spiritual journey. India, he said, values both forms of knowledge.
Bhagwat described India as a land of spirituality, where nationalism is rooted in purity. He also redefined what it means to be a scholar. According to him, real wisdom isn’t confined to contemplation—it’s about putting thoughts into action and living by example.
Education was another key focus of his speech. He criticised the colonial-era education system introduced by Macaulay, calling it outdated. Instead, he advocated for an Indian model of learning, one grounded in truth and compassion. Such a system, he argued, could unlock India’s potential for global good.
He urged individuals to take personal responsibility for societal transformation. “Every person must act with a sense of duty to bring about holistic change,” he said.
Bhagwat’s remarks resonate amid ongoing debates about India’s cultural identity and education reforms. His call for inclusivity within Hinduism presents a counter-narrative to divisive rhetoric often heard in political and religious circles. Whether this vision translates into broader acceptance remains to be seen, but the message itself is a reminder of Hinduism’s historically pluralistic values.
