The idea of unity in diversity has been path of the Indian culture since ancient times and Indian cultural identity is defined by Hindutva, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said on Sunday.
“The world thinks that for unity you need uniformity. But in India, the idea of looking for unity in diversity has been prevalent since ancient times. This has been the basis for unity in Indian culture. The common people know this culture as Hindu culture. Hindutva is the basis of unity in our country,” Mr. Bhagwat said in his address on the occasion of Guru Purnima.
He said the world recognised India as a Hindu rashtra. “So Hindutva is India’s identity. It’s the identity of everybody staying in this country. Except the Jews and the Parsis, everybody’s ancestors in India were Hindus. We are all influenced by the Hindu culture.”
Referring to the writings of Rabindrabath Thakur, the RSS chief said that the Hindus and Muslims in this country will find a way to stay together in this country “and that path will certainly be the Hindu path.”
“Who are we? We are Hindus. In light of our diversity, people can cherish their our own identity while becoming part of a larger identity,” he said.
Stating that ours is “a Hindu rashtra”, Mr. Bhagwat said the sole aim of the RSS was “to mobilise the Hindu society on the basis of Hindutva.” “Mobilising those who have forgotten that they are Hindus is the next task in line.”
Leader
The RSS chief underscored the need for an able leader to bring about a transformation in the society.
“Politics alone cannot bring about transformation in the society. You need a leader, who has the confidence of the whole society,” he said, without naming any political leader. The RSS, regarded as the ideological head of the BJP has backed Narendra Modi for the general elections.
Former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, State Bharatiya Janata Party president Mangal Pandey and other BJP leaders attended the function.
