Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday emphasised the unity of Hindu society and the need for social harmony and organisation during a ‘Khiladi Samvad’ programme held in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. He stated that “only through a sense of brotherhood can discrimination, inequality and casteism existing in society be eliminated.” He clarified that the objective of the RSS is not to attain power but to organise society and strengthen the nation.
Addressing approximately 950 national and international athletes at the event organised at Madhavkunj in Shatabdinagar, Bhagwat said the core objective of the organisation’s 100-year journey has been to unite Hindu society. He said the RSS does not function to promote its own name but aims to enhance the country’s standing.
He stated that whenever unity in society has been disrupted, the nation has faced crises. Despite diverse modes of worship and traditions, he said the strength of Indian society lies in its unity. According to Bhagwat, “Hindu is not a caste but a cultural descriptor linked to the traditions and values of this land.”
During the programme, questions were raised regarding the University Grants Commission (UGC), but the RSS chief did not comment on the issue. He kept his focus on social unity and organisational work. Bhagwat stated that the RSS does not work against any class, community or organisation. He clarified that the organisation’s primary objective is to organise society through individual character-building. He said volunteers are active in various fields including education, sports, industry, service and social work.
He also stated that India is not merely a geographical entity but a nation shaped by the cultural legacy of personalities such as Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Buddha, Mahavira, Swami Vivekananda, Swami Dayanand and Mahatma Gandhi. He said India’s identity is defined by its Sanatan culture, spiritual ethos and ideals of truth.
Bhagwat outlined five suggestions for those wishing to associate with the organisation. He said individuals should participate in RSS programmes and take responsibility to understand the organisation; join affiliated organisations to engage in social service; extend cooperation in RSS events in any form; maintain dialogue with volunteers and organisational activities alongside their professional responsibilities; and work selflessly in national interest with sincerity and dedication, irrespective of formal association with the RSS.
He stated that if a person works selflessly for the country, the RSS considers that individual a volunteer. During the interaction, athletes raised questions on the organisation’s role, social harmony and the contribution of youth. Bhagwat said the RSS cannot be understood solely from the perspective of sports or politics and that its functioning can only be understood by engaging with it directly.
