Mohan Bhagwat’s centenary address reframes Hindu Rashtra not as a blueprint of exclusion, but a vision of inclusive cultural belonging and justice
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the world’s largest social organisation, turns one hundred next month. It has been a long journey, and the organisation has gone through different phases — a roller-coaster ride, for sure. Its idea of Hindu Rashtra, or its role in nation-building, has always been under scrutiny. However, on many occasions, it has sought to clarify its stance on various issues. This is exactly what Mohan Bhagwat did recently. Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat sought to redefine the idea of “Hindu Rashtra” in a way that dispels some misconceptions during a special lecture series to mark the organisation’s centenary.
He clarified who the RSS considers a Hindu and what is construed as ‘Hindu Rashtra.’ Bhagwat emphasised that the term does not imply exclusion or domination but rather justice, belonging, and harmony for all people who inhabit the country. “Hindu Rashtra does not mean excluding anyone. It does not mean opposing anyone,” he said. He was categorical in explaining that the concept of Hindu identity is not restricted to religious practice or political ideology; instead, it is rooted in shared geography, civilisational heritage, cultural traditions, and devotion to ‘Bharat Mata.’ The timing of this message is significant as the RSS steps into its 100th year since its founding in 1925 by Dr KB Hedgewar in Nagpur. Conceived in the wake of colonial subjugation, the organisation began with the aim of instilling cultural pride, discipline, and unity among Hindus. What started as a modest gathering of a few swayamsevaks has grown into one of India’s most influential grassroots movements, with millions of members engaged in training and community work.
Though not political, its cadre fill the rank and file of the ruling party, Bharatiya Janata Party. Bhagwat called upon Hindu society to awaken to its responsibilities in the present moment, urging that selfhood, family enlightenment, environmental consciousness, social harmony, and civic duty — what he called “Panch Parivartan,” or five transformations —must guide the next phase of the nation’s journey. He spoke of India’s role as a Vishwaguru — a moral and cultural guide for the world — arguing that the nation’s heritage of spirituality, tolerance, and dharma gives it a unique place.
By anchoring ‘Hindu Rashtra’ in India’s civilisational ethos of “unity in diversity,” he sought to deflate the charge that it seeks to impose uniformity or marginalise others. Its centenary year is both a commemoration of a long journey of resilience and a declaration of intent for the century ahead — an attempt to fuse tradition with responsibility and offer a vision of nationhood rooted not in exclusion but in embracing the three maxims of justice, equality, and liberty for all.
