Overview: Vijayadashmi at Nagpur’s RSS Headquarters
On the occasion of Vijayadashmi today, the RSS headquarters in Nagpur hosted a large-scale event. The Day’s program included the Headgewar Memorial Committee’s preparations, underscoring the organization’s emphasis on continuity, service, and a vision for India’s future. The chief guest, Mohan Bhagwat, opened the remarks by invoking Mahatma Gandhi, highlighting both Gandhi’s enduring influence and the need for a future rooted in the nation’s inner strength or atman.
Honoring Gandhi, Shastri, and Guru Tegh Bahadur
Part of Bhagwat’s address celebrated Gandhi’s birth anniversary as a reminder that freedom fighters were not only instrumental in securing independence but also in shaping a post-colonial vision for India. Bhagwat also noted the birthday of former prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, praising his simplicity, humility, integrity, and resolve as exemplars of public service. The speech paid special attention to Guru Tegh Bahadur, marking the martyr’s 350th remembrance and commending his sacrifice in defending the Hindu community against coercive religious aggression.
Relating to Security and Resilience
Bhagwat recalled a tragic incident from 22 April in Pahalgam, where 26 Indian civilians were killed after extremist violence targeted Hindu faith. He framed the event as a test of national resolve, noting that careful planning and timely government action helped mobilize a strong response from India’s leadership, the armed forces, and a unified society. The episode was presented as evidence of the country’s resilience and commitment to protecting its citizens.
Kumbh Mela, Unity, and Regional Stability
Another highlight of the address focused on the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela, which Bhagwat described as surpassing previous records in attendance and demonstrating India’s capacity for large-scale, orderly mobilization. He framed the festival as a symbol of faith, cultural cohesion, and the ability to manage vast crowds with exemplary efficiency, setting a benchmark for national unity.
Addressing Maoist-Era Violence and a Comprehensive Plan
On left-wing extremism, Bhagwat argued that a harsh crackdown alone is insufficient. He called for a comprehensive action plan that ensures justice, development, harmony, empathy, and communal cohesion, particularly in affected regions. The emphasis was on addressing the root causes through inclusive governance and regional development, rather than punitive measures alone.
Economic Realities: Growth, Inequality, and Self-Reliance
Bhagwat acknowledged progress in India’s economy but warned that the prevailing system tended to widen the gap between the rich and the poor, concentrating wealth and power. He warned against a new form of extraction that exploits workers and damages the environment, while undermining interpersonal trust and civility. He urged a return to self-reliance and Swadeshi—reducing dependence on foreign policies and markets, and prioritizing domestic capability, innovation, and local entrepreneurship. He flagged the need to reassess import strategies in the face of global economic shifts, emphasizing a balanced approach that safeguards national interests while promoting inclusive growth.
Neighboring Nations and Shared Cultural Tides
The speech referred to Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh, indicating that political developments in these neighbors have a bearing on regional stability. Bhagwat urged a focus on peace, steady progress, and mutual respect, arguing that cooperative engagement with South Asia serves India’s prosperity and global standing.
Global Trends: Values, Technology, and Development
Reflecting on globalization and technological progress, Bhagwat warned against unchecked materialism and consumerism, which could erode ethics and social cohesion. He cautioned that climate change, irregular rainfall, and other natural disruptions threaten the subcontinent’s shared future. A constructive response, he argued, lies in aligning progress with principled, value-driven development, and public trust in democratic means and institutions.
Closing Reflections: Kovind’s Tribute and a Shared Path Forward
Former president Ram Nath Kovind addressed the gathering before Bhagwat, praising Gandhi, Hedgewar, and other visionaries. Kovind underscored the RSS as a unifying force that has helped stitch together India’s diverse communities while advocating for dignity, freedom, and a constructive national project. He recalled his own encounter with Hedgewar’s philosophy and affirmed that the RSS, along with other actors, continues to pursue Ambedkarite principles through inclusive governance and social reform.
Conclusion
In this Vijayadashmi address, Bhagwat framed a future where India’s strength derives from a blend of Gandhian ethics, the discipline of a robust civil society, and a pragmatic strategy for self-reliance and inclusive growth. The remarks—alongside Kovind’s reflections—signal a call for unity, reform, and a long-term vision that seeks to balance tradition with modernity in a rapidly evolving world.
