Mohan Bhagwat in Nagpur stated that individuals should allow others to work after turning 75. The Congress and Shiv Sena interpreted this as a message for PM Modi. The statement has sparked debate in the country's politics.
RSS Chief: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat made a statement regarding the age of 75 during a book release event in Nagpur, which has caused a stir in political circles. He said that when a person reaches the age of 75, they should step back and give others the opportunity to work. He shared this idea through an anecdote related to Moropant Pingle, a senior RSS leader.
The Shawl Story of Moropant Pingle
Bhagwat recounted that when Moropant Pingle turned 75, he was presented with a shawl at a function. At that time, he had smiled and said that it meant his time was up, he should step aside and let others work. Bhagwat said that Pingle never acted as if he had done a lot of work. He always lived a simple life and inspired others.
The Meaning of a Shawl in RSS Tradition
In the RSS, when a senior volunteer is publicly presented with a shawl, it is not only a symbol of respect but also an indication that they should hand over their responsibilities to someone else. This is what Mohan Bhagwat explained through the example of Moropant Pingle.
Congress Said – This is a Direct Message to PM Modi
The Congress responded immediately to Mohan Bhagwat's statement. Party leader Jairam Ramesh wrote on social media that the Sarsanghchalak reminded Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he would turn 75 on September 17, 2025. Ramesh also quipped that the Prime Minister himself could tell the Sarsanghchalak that he too would turn 75 on September 11, 2025. In other words, one statement delivered a message to two leaders.
Sanjay Raut Also Targeted
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut also targeted Mohan Bhagwat's statement. He said that PM Modi had sidelined veteran leaders of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government like Lal Krishna Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, and Jaswant Singh, citing their age. Now it remains to be seen whether he himself will follow the same path or not.
