Reviving Unity: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Highlights How Ignoring Hindu Sentiments Fueled the Heartbreaking Partition

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed a gathering in Mumbai on February 7, 2026, emphasizing the significance of “Hindu bhav” (sentiment) in the context of India’s historical Partition. Speaking at an event celebrating “100 years of the Sangh journey,” Bhagwat highlighted that the rift leading to Partition stemmed from a neglect of this sentiment. The event saw notable attendance from celebrities, including singer Adnan Sami and actors Ranbir Kapoor and Salman Khan.

During his address, Bhagwat articulated the necessity of ‘swadeshi’—promoting local production-while acknowledging the importance of global interdependence, stressing that such connections should not be dictated by tariffs. He stated, “Partition happened because of religion. We respect all religions as Hindus, and while this perspective may be debated, India remains a unified nation with Islam and Christianity coexisting.” He attributed the country’s unity to the remembrance of Hindu sentiment, which he believes was lost prior to Partition.

Bhagwat also discussed the concept of Hindutva, asserting that embracing this ideology does not require individuals to abandon their religious practices or linguistic identities. He stated, “Hindutva is a guarantee of your safety.” He further explained that despite differing faiths, food habits, and languages, people in India share a common social and cultural fabric, coining this shared identity as either Hindutva or Bharatiyata.

Challenging the phrase “Hindu-Muslim unity,” he argued that it implies uniting distinct groups rather than recognizing an inherent oneness. Bhagwat called for dialogue to foster understanding of the RSS, suggesting that perceptions shaped by propaganda do not accurately represent the organization’s essence. He encouraged open communication to address any factual opposition to the RSS, asserting, “If there is criticism rooted in facts, we will improve.”

Highlighting the importance of respectful dialogue, Bhagwat emphasized that a true Hindu respects all faiths. “We must engage in peaceful discussions,” he said. He pointed to the necessity for family discussions to prevent youth from negative influences such as drugs and suicide, stressing the importance of instilling self-pride and understanding one’s identity.

Addressing concerns about the RSS’s role, Bhagwat clarified that the organization does not aim to be a “pressure group” nor does it exert direct control over volunteer activities. He acknowledged that perceptions of control arise from the diverse fields in which its volunteers engage. He welcomed honest criticism as a tool for improvement.

Bhagwat concluded by urging the unity of Hindus, warning of “selfish and monopolistic forces” that aim to hinder India’s progress. He affirmed, “If Hindu society stands united, its righteous strength will be unassailable.” Asserting that unity is vital to counter external pressures, he expressed optimism about India’s potential if its citizens collaborate deeply to safeguard their heritage and future.

This message reflects a broader call for solidarity among Hindus, presenting the RSS as an organization committed to fostering understanding and progress in Indian society.

Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/forgetting-hindu-sentiments-led-to-partition-rss-chief-mohan-bhagwat/article70605105.ece
Category : India
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Publish Date: 2026-02-08 03:19:00