RSS centenary: Hindu identity rooted in respect for differences, India's DNA intact for 40,000 years, says Mohan Bhagwat

Mohan Bhagwat also explained the origins of the word ‘Hindu,’ pointing out that in ancient times people in Iran referred to those living beyond the Indus as “Hanat,” which gradually evolved into ‘Hindu.’

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) marked its centenary celebrations with a lecture series in the capital, where Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat reflected on the organisation’s journey, its philosophy, and its role in shaping India’s future.

Addressing the gathering in New Delhi, Bhagwat reminded that the essence of the RSS lies in the last line of its daily prayer, “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” He said the Sangh was founded with the purpose of serving the nation, and its very significance rests in India realising its potential as a vishwaguru. “India has a contribution to make to the world, and that time has come,” he declared, adding that leadership should never be for self-interest but to create momentum for a better global order.

Tracing the roots of the organisation, Bhagwat spoke about its founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, whom he described as “a patriot by birth.” Despite being orphaned young and facing poverty, Hedgewar devoted his life to the cause of the nation while remaining an excellent student committed to discipline and service.

The RSS chief also touched upon the philosophical underpinnings of the Sangh, saying, “Hindavi, Bharatiya, and Sanatan are synonymous. These words are not limited to geography alone; they carry a deeper civilisational meaning. Our DNA has been the same for the past 40,000 years—it is our culture to live together.”

He explained the origins of the word “Hindu,” pointing out that in ancient times people in Iran referred to those living beyond the Indus as “Hanat,” which gradually evolved into “Hindu.” Traders and scholars later popularised the term, eventually embedding it into the cultural identity of the land.

On the principles of Hindu Rashtra, Bhagwat clarified that the concept is often misunderstood. “‘Rashtra’ is not the same as ‘nation-state’ in the Western sense. Our rashtra has always existed, even when we were not politically independent. A Hindu Rashtra has nothing to do with power or governance—it is about ensuring justice for all, without discrimination.”

Calling unity the hallmark of Indian civilisation, Bhagwat stressed that diversity need not be erased for harmony. “We do not believe uniformity is necessary for unity. In fact, diversity itself is a product of unity. Our natural religion is one of coordination, not confrontation,” he said.

Expanding on this idea, he noted that differences of opinion are not a weakness but a gift. “It is not a crime to have different views; nature itself has given us this quality. When varied perspectives come together, consensus is born.”

He also underscored the Sangh’s self-reliant ethos, recalling how in earlier days, visitors sometimes left behind small offerings like copper coins, which were saved but never sought. “The Sangh has never stretched its hand into anyone’s wealth. It has remained a mission of nation-building, not a vehicle for accumulation,” Bhagwat said.

Touching upon historical lessons, he questioned how India, despite its strength, succumbed to invasions. “We lost to those who came from thousands of miles away and took control. Why did this happen?” he asked, while praising Veer Savarkar as “a shining gem” of the revolutionary movement that challenged colonial rule.

Bhagwat concluded by urging that discussions about the RSS should be rooted in fact, not hearsay. “Much of what is in the public domain isn’t authentic. The Sangh was never just an organisation—it has always been a mission of nation-building. After a hundred years, its spirit remains the same.”