RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday criticised British colonial rule in India, asserting that the British distorted the country’s history to propagate the false notion that Indians were unfit to govern themselves.
Speaking at an event marking the 70th foundation day of the Somalwar Education Society in Nagpur, Bhagwat recalled that the British, realising the unity of Indians in the 1857 uprising despite various divisions in caste, sect, language, and geography, sought to undermine this unity.
"The British rulers decided to do something that will end this trait of Indians to ensure that the British rule lasted forever," Bhagwat said.
He explained that the British sought to make Indians forget their rich history, ancestry, and heritage.
“Their objective was to implant several untruths in our heads under the guise of facts,” he added.
Bhagwat pointed out that one of the most significant lies was the notion that most people in India had migrated from other regions, including the widely propagated theory that the Aryans invaded and fought the Dravidians.
"The biggest lie was that it is not in the Indians’ blood to govern by themselves, and that people here live like those staying in dharmashalas," Bhagwat said, referring to the false narratives perpetuated by the British.
The RSS chief further emphasised the continuing importance of teachers in the 21st century, even in the age of Artificial Intelligence.
He acknowledged the vast amount of information available through technology but said that teachers still played a crucial role in shaping lives.
“Seeing and observing is learning. How to use information you possess is learnt from seeing and observing," he explained.
Bhagwat also highlighted Mahatma Gandhi’s dictum that "science without ethics is a sin."
He stressed the importance of effectively using technology while maintaining ethical considerations.
“Teachers have the power to transform lives...with intelligence becoming artificial, the role of teachers and education has become important,” he added.
In his address, Bhagwat reminded the audience that technology may provide information, but only teachers can impart wisdom and teach discernment in the face of misinformation.
“When we teach, we also learn. Every student is different," he said, pointing out the inadequacy of relying solely on platforms like Google for education.
The RSS chief also cautioned against the spread of falsehoods presented as knowledge, urging that knowledge be scrutinised before being accepted.
"The role of books has almost ended. Google has the entire world’s knowledge. In today’s era of AI, there is a question mark on the role of teachers," Bhagwat noted.
Despite these technological advancements, Bhagwat maintained that the purpose of education is to build a complete human being.
"A khajur (date) tree is very tall but what is the use if it doesn’t provide shade. A big person is one who is useful to others," he said.
He concluded by emphasising the important role education institutions have played in fostering self-pride and confidence among students, especially after the 1857 revolt.
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