Addressing the ‘Pramukh Jan Goshti’, Bhagwat said it was incorrect to judge the RSS through the lens of the Bharatiya Janata Party or allied organisations such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. “Every organisation has its own independent role. The Sangh does not control any political party and is not focused on power, elections or tickets,” he said, adding that its sole objective is social transformation through character-building.
Clarifying long-standing misconceptions, the RSS chief rejected the description of the Sangh as a paramilitary organisation. He said uniforms, drills and stick exercises were meant to inculcate discipline and unity, not to project force. “Assuming military intent is a misunderstanding,” he told the gathering.
Bhagwat emphasised that India’s diversity of faiths, languages, castes and sects is held together by a shared civilisational ethos. “Hindu identity is a unifying cultural identity. Our traditions, values and ancestors are common, and that forms the base of national unity,” he said.
In a wide-ranging address, Bhagwat spoke on issues spanning the economy, youth, family life and the environment. On economic policy, he advocated prioritising indigenous production and said even imports should be governed by national interest. India, he said, should not fear tariffs and must work towards self-reliance.
Highlighting concerns about social change, Bhagwat warned against blind imitation of global fashion trends and consumerism. He called for reviving family practices such as shared meals and flagged the growing influence of fast food culture. He also urged stronger engagement with Generation Z, stressing the need to connect young Indians with the country’s history, culture and values.
On environmental issues, Bhagwat criticised unchecked tree felling and single-use plastics, stating that sustainable development is impossible without protecting forests, water and natural resources.
Reiterating the Sangh’s founding philosophy, Bhagwat said the RSS was not created in opposition to any group. Established by freedom fighter Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, it was envisioned as a social organisation to strengthen discipline and unity. “Nations are shaped by society, not by leaders alone,” he said, calling for collective responsibility.
He concluded by outlining five key transformations needed for national progress—social harmony, family enlightenment, environmental protection, self-awareness and civic discipline—urging society to work together to achieve them.
