‘Unity in Diversity through Dedication, Discipline and Inclusiveness: The Centenary Journey of the Sangh’

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh: Centenary year journey and meaningful contribution to the society

Dr. Satyawan Saurabh
The objective of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not limited to the organization only. It works to strengthen moral, cultural and social values in the society, develop discipline and dedication in each individual and contribute to nation building. The approach of the Sangh is inclusive; it is not against any religion, caste or group. The word Hindu does not mean only religion, but responsibility, devotion and commitment to society. The Sangh works to free the society from factionalism and establish unity in diversity. Shatabdi Yatra is a confirmation of this dedication and organization.
Under the guidance of organisation chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh organised a three-day lecture series at Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi on the occasion of its centenary year. This event was not just a programme but a live demonstration of the ideology, working methods and the journey of social construction of the Sangh. The Sangh was formed keeping India at the centre and its aim is to contribute in making the country a world leader. The prayer of the Sangh “Bharat Mata ki Jai” is not just words but an inspiration of action and dedication. The formation of the Sangh is the result of a slow and continuous process, which has stood the test of time.
Although the Sangh uses the word ‘Hindu’, its essence is not limited to religion alone. It contains a sense of inclusion, humanity and responsibility towards the nation. The aim of the Sangh is not to stand for any opposition or competition, but to maintain the unity of the country by organizing every section of the society. The work of the Sangh is carried out through volunteers, and this work provides an opportunity to train new volunteers and develop leadership and responsibility in them.
The concept of nation is not defined by power or government. In Indian tradition, the meaning of nation is associated with culture, self-reflection and social consciousness. Looking at history, it is clear that the freedom struggle of 1857 was unsuccessful, but it gave rise to new consciousness and self-awareness in Indian society. After this, Congress emerged, which paved the way for political understanding and social reform. After independence, the challenge of removing the inequalities and evils arising in the society remained. This need gave birth to the establishment of the Sangh and its role.
Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and other great men recognized the need to remove the vices of society and to organize the entire society. The Sangh was established in 1925 with the vision to strengthen the moral and cultural values of the society and ensure contribution to nation building. The word ‘Hindu’ is not just a religion, but a symbol of responsibility, dedication and inclusion. It does not have the feeling of separating or opposing anyone, but the objective is to unite everyone and organize the society.
India’s nature is of cooperation and coordination, not conflict. Its unity lies in geography, resources and tradition of introspection. Looking inside instead of looking outside makes it clear that there is the same element in all, even if it appears in different forms. This is why Mother India and ancestors are revered by us. A person who respects Mother India and his ancestors is a true Hindu. Words may change, but the feeling of devotion and reverence connects every person in the society. Gradually people in the society have started understanding the meaning of the words Sangh and Hindu. With the improvement in the quality of life, people return to their original traditions. The Sangh does not force anyone to become a Hindu; its aim is to contribute to the overall organization of society and nation building. The Sangh is not against any religion, caste or group, but organizes the society by connecting everyone with an inclusive approach.
Sangh’s work is not limited to the organization only. Its aim is to develop moral, cultural and social values within every person of the society. Bringing awareness and discipline in the society is the main objective of the Sangh. Personal dedication and discipline have special importance in the working method of the Sangh. Every volunteer imbibes the basic spirit and working style of the Sangh and implements it in the society. The aim of the Sangh is that there should be no factionalism in the society, but everyone should be organized and unity should be maintained in the country. Unity in diversity is India’s true identity. Despite different languages, religions, cultures and traditions, India’s identity lies in its soul, culture and respect for ancestors. The aim of the Sangh is to maintain this unity and make every person of the society a part of it. The work of the Sangh works at all three levels of individual development, social upliftment and nation building.
Through the Sangh, moral and cultural values are being strengthened in the society. Through the Sangh workers, the Sangh instills discipline, dedication and spirit of service in the society. The aim of the Sangh is not limited to the volunteers only, but its influence is to reach every section of the society. There is a balance between individual effort and organizational vision in the working style of the Sangh. The aim of the Sangh is that every person in the society should understand his duties and contribute to nation building.
The lecture series shed light on the establishment of the Sangh, the meaning of the word Hindu, organisational vision, social service and the process of nation building. The aim of the Sangh is not to oppose anyone but to contribute to the upliftment of the society and the nation. The working style of the Sangh, personal dedication and organisational vision are a source of inspiration for the society.
Thus, this lecture series of the Sangh Centenary Year provides an important opportunity to understand the role of the Sangh in society, its functioning and purpose. It makes it clear that the purpose of the Sangh is not limited to the organization only, but to contribute to the overall upliftment of the society and nation building. The work of the Sangh is to organize the society through personal dedication, discipline and social responsibility.