Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday underscored the importance of respecting differences, promoting cohesion, and ensuring opportunities for all to grow, while speaking at a Republic Day event in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra.
Addressing attendees after unfurling the national flag at a local college, Bhagwat urged citizens to use the occasion not only for celebration but also to reflect on their responsibilities towards the nation.
Focusing on the idea of harmonious coexistence, he remarked, “Clashes are happening outside Bharat due to diversity. We see diversity as a natural part of life. You can have your own specialities, but you must be good to each other. If you want to live, it should be a cohesive living.”
The RSS chief further explained the necessity of mutual respect within families and communities, drawing a parallel between personal happiness and societal well-being.
“You cannot be happy if your family is unhappy. Similarly, a family cannot be happy if the town is facing trouble,” he said.
Bhagwat emphasised the need for knowledge-driven work and dedication.
He explained, “Being enterprising is important, but you must always do your work with knowledge. Any work done without proper thought does not bear fruit but brings trouble.”
Drawing an analogy, he said, “If you know how to cook rice, you need water, heat, and rice. But if you do not know how to cook it and instead eat dry rice, drink water, and stand in the sunlight for hours, it will not turn into a meal. Knowledge and dedication are essential.”
He also highlighted the role of faith in everyday life.
“At home, work is done with faith and dedication, which bears fruit. This is why a simple request for water in a home is met with generosity, unlike in a hotel where it may lead to insult,” Bhagwat said.
Underlining the principles of equality, freedom, and fraternity, Bhagwat linked them to the symbolic significance of the dhammachakra on the national flag.
He stated, “The dhammachakra is not just a symbol but a message of mutual respect and cooperation, as envisioned by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar. It serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility for the nation’s progress.”
He observed that Bharat had made great strides in the 78 years since independence, attributing this to individual and collective efforts. “We want individuals to grow, and for that, we need freedom and equality. No one should be suppressed. Everyone should get an opportunity, and with fraternity, people will grow and spread their success in society,” Bhagwat asserted.
Reflecting on the country’s post-independence journey, Bhagwat acknowledged initial uncertainties, particularly following setbacks like the 1962 war with China.
“After independence, doubts lingered. We had to retreat in the war against China, and respect for us was lost. But after the 1971 war and the successful Pokhran tests, our reputation grew, and the world began to respect us again,” he noted.
Calling on the younger generation to contribute to the nation’s progress, Bhagwat appealed for a focus on selfless service.
“Earning for oneself is less important than what one gives to others. The RSS supports all the good work in society, regardless of a person’s background or colour. We only support good deeds,” he said.
Concluding his address, Bhagwat reminded the audience that the responsibility for the country’s development rests with its people. “The tricolour we unfurl today reflects our collective duty to make Bharat a country of our dreams,” he said.
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