Hindu not noun, but an adjective: Mohan Bhagwat

Mohan Bhagwat

• RSS chief Bhagwat says 'Hindu' is an adjective, not a noun, at Mumbai event
• He stresses social harmony, unity, and peaceful coexistence in his speech
• Salman Khan attends RSS centenary event, highlighting outreach to arts sector

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Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said that “‘Hindu’ is not a noun, but an adjective” while addressing a programme in Mumbai as part of the Sangh’s centenary celebrations. He said the organisation has come to “fulfil, not destroy,” referencing a Biblical verse to stress righteous action and peaceful coexistence.

“Strength of righteous and peaceful co-existence needs to be activated, we need to complement each other,” Bhagwat added, underscoring social harmony and the Sangh’s focus on unity without seeking powers.

"Being the most ancient, we, the Hindus are the Aagraj (elders) of the world. People from around the world will observe our character & learn from us.  We will teach, not through speeches or dadagiri (domineering attitude), but through behaviour and character," he said.

The remarks came at the first day of a two-day lecture series titled “100 Years of Sangh Journey: New Horizons” held at the Nehru Centre in Worli. The event aims to reflect on the RSS’s journey, its role in society, and the ideas shaping its future. Senior RSS leaders and invited speakers interacted with the public during discussions organized as part of the centenary outreach.

Bollywood star Salman Khan was present at the event, listening intently to Bhagwat’s speech. He was accompanied by filmmaker Subhash Ghai and lyricist, poet, and writer Prasoon Joshi. Salman Khan’s presence highlighted the Sangh’s efforts to engage personalities from the arts and entertainment sectors during its centenary celebrations.

The second day of the programme continues on Sunday with further lectures, discussions, and interactions with attendees.

On Tuesday, Bhagwat said India is not merely a geographical entity but it embodies the spirit of service, action and collective welfare.

Speaking at a programme at Lepa village in the district, Bhagwat said the Indian tradition is rooted not in seeking favours from others but in the spirit of service, and serving others is Bharat's dharma.

Service purifies the human mind, and true happiness lies within a person, not outside, he was quoted as saying in a Sangh release.

Enjoying happiness while ignoring others' suffering is against human sensitivity, the RSS chief said, adding that alleviating the pain of society is Bharat's inherent nature, and it is on this basis that India gave the message of dharma to the world.

(With PTI inputs)