Shri Vishwa Niketan  /  Fortnightly digest For private circulation Samvad  संवाद 16 September 2026  ·  Bhadra Shukla 5 · Vik. Samvat 2083 · Yugabda 5128 Issue SM8012  ·  16 dispatches from 8 countries

Parv  · Festival

Ganesh Chaudas · Bhadrapada Shukla 14, 25 September

Across Bharat · 25 September · No. 01 Ananta Chaturdashi, and the farewell to Ganesha The last of the ten days of Ganesh Chaturthi, the visarjana of the murtis, and the close of Daslakshan Parv Ananta Chaturdashi, marked on the Shukla 14 of Bhadrapada, corresponding to 25 September this year, is the last of the ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival, and is called Ganesh Chaudas, when devotees bid farewell to Ganesha by immersing the murtis in water. It is an important day in the Jain calendar as well: the ten days of Daslakshan Parv close on Chaturdashi, known there as Ananta Chaudas. Beyond the many rituals, devotees keep a fast on the day. The day is also dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu. According to the Agni Purana, the Ananta form of Bhagwan Vishnu — Shesha, the divine serpent — is venerated on this occasion to free adherents from sins.

Sangh  · Organisation

Dattatreya Hosabale at Pragjyotishpur University, Assam · 8 September

Assam · 8 September · No. 02 Hosabale at Pragjyotishpur: education, character and Vishwaguru The Sarkaryavah on student-centred learning, and a tree plantation on the university campus Dattatreya Hosabale, Sarkaryavah of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, visited Pragjyotishpur University in Assam on September 8. Addressing the university family, he shared perspectives on the role of education, culture and values in shaping society. Highlighting the transformative role of education in societal and national development, he emphasised the need for student-centric, experiential and skill-based learning, and underscored the importance of character building and value education in alignment with the National Education Policy. Describing students as the foundation of the nation's future, he commended the collective community effort behind the non-profit institution, and made special mention of the inaugural batch, noting their legacy as the university's founding cohort. Earlier, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raghvendra Prasad Tiwari delivered the welcome address, outlining the university's vision to integrate Indian Knowledge Systems, traditions and values with contemporary global education, and to nurture a generation rooted in its heritage and committed to making Bharat a Vishwaguru. The event was held in the presence of Chancellor Lt. Gen. Rana Pratap Kalita (Retd.). Following the event, Dattatreya Hosabale, with V. Bhagaiah, Akhil Bharatiya Karyakarini Sadasya, took part in a tree plantation drive on the campus, an initiative connecting education and social responsibility with environmental conservation. Basistha Bujarbaruah, RSS Kshetra Pracharak, and K.N. Raghunandan, Organising Secretary of Vidya Bharati, were among those present.

Vishwa  · Bharatiya Diaspora

Across the zones 01 dispatches

'Hindu Vishwa Bandhu — Embrace the World in Friendship' · Greater Toronto Area, 30 August

Canada and the United Kingdom · 25 August to 7 September · No. 03 Hindu Vishwa Bandhu: the Sarsanghchalak in Canada and the UK Three countries in fourteen days, 2,500 in Toronto, and a civilisational dialogue in London The RSS is marking its centenary with an expanding programme of overseas engagements, and Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat toured three countries — the USA, Canada and the United Kingdom — from 25 August to 7 September. In the second leg he arrived in Canada for the first time, and on 30 August addressed a large diaspora gathering themed 'Hindu Vishwa Bandhu — Embrace the World in Friendship' in the Greater Toronto Area. More than 2,500 people from eight Canadian provinces attended. The programme was organised by Canadian Hindus for Outreach, Relations and Dialogue, with support from more than 175 community organisations. Addressing the gathering, Dr Bhagwat highlighted the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that the world is one family, and stressed that diversity in languages, traditions and forms of worship should be respected and seen as a source of unity. Former Canadian Defence Minister and Alberta Premier Jason Kenney attended as chief guest, and Kashmir Singh Dhaliwal of Vancouver's Khalsa Diwan Society was guest of honour. On 1 September the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce hosted an interactive evening in Toronto titled 'Dharma & Enterprise', bringing together business leaders, former government leaders, bureaucrats, entrepreneurs and community members for a conversation on values-driven leadership and responsible enterprise. Topics included the balance between purpose and profit, what is 'enough', the qualities of leadership and the responsibilities of the current generation toward the next. The same day, members of the Hindu Sikh Unity Forum Canada met Dr Bhagwat for a frank and candid dialogue, including questions often raised about the RSS, its work in society and Hindu-Sikh relations. He responded at length, emphasising dialogue over assumptions and direct engagement over misconceptions, and the discussion reflected on the intertwined history, traditions and cultural bonds of Hindus and Sikhs. Dr Bhagwat arrived in London on 2 September for the final leg. The London programme was led and coordinated by Integral, a UK-based organisation that brings together leaders and communities to strengthen dialogue and collaboration within the UK and between the UK and Bharat; more than 115 UK-based socio-cultural organisations joined Integral in welcoming him. He met faith leaders, academics, researchers and other public figures, and as part of his interfaith engagement visited the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Willesden, the Khalsa Jatha British Isles gurdwara, and a Jain temple in London. A community leaders' reception and civilisational dialogue was held on 6 September under the theme 'Celebration of Oneness', initiated by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK. In a wide-ranging question-and-answer session, Dr Bhagwat addressed some of the most debated and, in his view, least understood ideas associated with the Sangh and Hindu civilisation — from shuddh saatvik prem and the Hindu approach to diversity to the deeper meaning of Hindutva and Rashtra. The three-country journey focused on civilisational and cultural dialogue, people-to-people relationships, social harmony, and sharing the organisation's century-long experience of character building and seva. “Diversity in languages, traditions and forms of worship should be respected and seen as a source of unity.” 2,500in Toronto 175+organisations 115+in the UK ▸ Watch the Canada program ▸ Watch the London dialogue

America Zone 05 dispatches

Fairfax · Phoenix · Katy · Solon · No. 04 Rakhis across the United States: police, fire and city hall Fairfax County officers, the Mayor of Surprise, the Katy City Council, and a fifth year at Solon Fire Station HSS USA Ramkrishna Shakha in Fairfax celebrated Raksha Bandhan with the Fairfax County Police Department on 9 September. Children, families and senior citizens tied rakhis to the officers as a symbol of respect, gratitude and mutual care, and of the shared responsibility to safeguard one another. The local Hindu community, with volunteers of HSS USA North Phoenix, Arizona, visited the office of Mayor Kevin Sartor of the City of Surprise and marked Universal Oneness Day by tying rakhis to the Mayor and other office bearers. On 9 September the HSS Katy chapter celebrated with the Katy City Council, karyakartas tying rakshasutras to Mayor Thiele, council member Michael Meihls and others at the City Hall. On 6 September members and families of HSS visited the Willowfork Fire Department station, where children and families tied rakhis on the wrists of firefighters; the department expressed its gratitude for the recognition of their service. The HSS Solon chapter held its fifth annual Raksha Bandhan Community Celebration at Solon Fire Station #2, where more than 40 volunteers tied rakhi bracelets and sprinkled rice and vermilion on the city's police officers and firefighters, explaining the symbolism of the ceremony over a spread of Bharatiya and American food. 40+at Solon

Queens District · Kitchener · No. 05 Rakhis for the RCMP and the Waterloo Regional Police A mutual vow of care, tied at two Canadian police services Over the last weekend of August, the Queens District RCMP welcomed members of HSS Canada in celebrating Raksha Bandhan. HSS volunteers tied rakhis to RCMP members, and the initiative was warmly received: the act, they said, represents a mutual vow of care and a solemn promise of protection, honour and lifelong goodwill between individuals and across communities. In the first week of September the Waterloo Regional Police Service took part in a Raksha Bandhan ceremony with volunteers of HSS at the Kitchener shakha. Volunteers tied rakhis to the wrists of Waterloo Regional Police Service members and prayed for the protection of the community.

Hatfield, Pennsylvania · No. 06 Interfaith Connect at Akshardham Volunteers from Pennsylvania East and the Jewish community, including StandWithUs, tour the temple together HSS volunteers from the Pennsylvania East region and the Jewish community, including StandWithUs, came together for a guided tour at the BAPS Akshardham temple in Hatfield. Jewish community members praised the temple's architecture and the hospitality they received during the visit. The group shared a meal and camaraderie at the cafe inside the temple, and left on a happy note of oneness.

North Houston · No. 07 Sevika Milan: bhajans composed in ten minutes Thirty-five volunteers, four teams, and a session on oral health Women from the North Houston chapters of HSS organised a 'Sevika Milan' which brought together 35 volunteers for a day of energy, joy and togetherness. Meditation, lively team-building games and a creative bhajan-composition challenge were the highlights: four teams composed soulful bhajans in just ten minutes, showing both creativity and devotion. Dr Kiran Heda, an orthodontist, led an informative session on oral hygiene and care. The Milan celebrated learning, teamwork and the spirit of Hindu sisterhood. 35volunteers 10minutes to compose

Bellevue · Fremont · Houston · No. 08 Vidyadaan: backpacks for the new school year, and 29 units of blood Bellevue gives blood, Fremont and Houston give backpacks — 420 in all Volunteers of Subramanya Bharati Shakha in Bellevue, Washington, organised a blood donation drive that drew an enthusiastic response, with 29 units of blood donated to Bloodworks Northwest. HSS chapters in the Central Pacific region organised a back-to-school drive called 'Vidyadaan' to serve schoolchildren and schools as they begin a new academic year. Volunteers contributed cash to purchase backpacks and school supplies for distribution to students in need. In Fremont, California, volunteers donated around 40 backpacks and school supplies to Forest Park Elementary and Inclusive World, and 20 more to Thornton Middle School. In Houston, Texas, volunteers of Madhav Shakha donated 360 backpacks to Valley West Elementary School. 29units of blood 420backpacks

Europe Zone 02 dispatches

Cheltenham, UK · 14 June · No. 09 A Shuttle-thon in Cheltenham raises £500 Six hours of badminton, table tennis and board games for Play Gloucestershire Kesari Shakha turned this year's fundraiser into a 'Sewa Shuttle-thon', held at the Hindu Community Centre in Cheltenham, bringing members and the wider community together for a day of indoor games from ten in the morning until four. The event supported Play Gloucestershire, a local charity providing school- and community-based play opportunities for disadvantaged children across the county. Making full use of the mandir hall, participants of all ages enjoyed friendly badminton, table tennis and board games throughout the day. The event raised £500. £500raised

The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Paris · consecrated 6 September

Paris · 6 September · No. 10 The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Paris is consecrated A vision first articulated in 1970, completed under Mahant Swami Maharaj The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Paris was officially consecrated and inaugurated on 6 September by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi congratulated the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and, addressing the gathering virtually, described the inauguration as the beginning of a 'new era' in cultural ties between Bharat and France, saying the temple would become a symbol of Bharat's ancient spiritual traditions and the universal message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. A thirteen-day Festival of Culture, the Paris Mandir Mahotsav, was organised from 2 to 14 September, featuring a grand Nagar Yatra, daily Vedic assemblies and community open days. The mandir realises a vision first articulated in 1970 by BAPS's third spiritual head, Yogiji Maharaj, carried forward by his successor Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and completed under Mahant Swami Maharaj. 13days of festival

Australasia Zone 02 dispatches

Dharma Games 2026 · Sydney Academy of Sport, Narrabeen

Narrabeen, Sydney · No. 11 Dharma Games 2026: twenty-two teams, four sports, four states Futsal, Kho Kho, Throwball and Netball — and a traditional games corner that drew the generations together The Australian Hindu Sporting Federation, the Hindu Council of Australia and Friends of India Australia hosted the inaugural Dharma Games this September, a new community sporting festival. More than 400 people gathered at the Sydney Academy of Sport in Narrabeen for a full day of competition, culture and community. Twenty-two teams competed across four sports — Futsal, Kho Kho, Throwball and Netball — with players representing four states and territories: Victoria, South Australia, the ACT and New South Wales. Families gathered to support their teams while food stalls kept everyone well fed. The traditional games corner was a particular highlight, featuring tyre and stick, gilli danda, carrom board, langori, cornhole and other activities that brought the generations together. It was heartwarming to hear comments like 'I haven't played this since I was little!' as children and parents alike joined in. The champion teams were Peculiar FC at Futsal, Western Sydney Asuras at Kho Kho, Victorian Blazers at Throwball and Bhagavad Ballers at Netball. 400+attended 22teams 4sports

Auckland · 8 September · No. 12 A rakhi for the Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand Yuva karyakartas of the Arjun Yuva Shakha explain Raksha Bandhan at Auckland HSS New Zealand karyakartas of the Arjun Yuva Shakha in Auckland met Rt Hon Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour on 8 September to celebrate the spirit of Raksha Bandhan as Universal Oneness Day. The yuva karyakartas explained how Raksha Bandhan is celebrated and spoke of its deeper message: the bonds of responsibility, respect and togetherness that connect individuals and communities. They also gave an overview of what takes place at an HSS shakha, including activities that encourage discipline, character building, teamwork, leadership, cultural awareness and community service. The Deputy Prime Minister reciprocated by tying a raksha to the yuva karyakarta. A memento was presented to him carrying the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — the world is one family. Copies of Dr Ratan Sharda's book 'Bringing Communities Together: Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh New Zealand' were presented to the Deputy Prime Minister and to Smt Paramjeet Parmar MP.

Seva  · Relief work

Rasuwa · Nuwakot · Dhading · No. 13 Sewa International USA releases $100,000 for Nepal flood relief Shelter, food and rescue support mobilised within 48 hours, and a helpdesk for families Sewa International USA has released $100,000 for Nepal flood relief, while Sewa International Nepal volunteers work on the ground to rescue stranded people and provide emergency assistance in Rasuwa, Nuwakot and Dhading. Sewa is appealing for support and has established a dedicated helpdesk to collect and share information about Americans reported missing or stranded in Nepal, and to coordinate with concerned families and community members. Within 48 hours Sewa mobilised shelter, protective, food, medical and rescue-support supplies, including 300 heavy-duty twelve-by-fifteen-foot tarpaulins, foam mattresses, raincoats, water bottles, ration kits and volunteer jackets. Sewa is collaborating with the San Antonio Nepali Association, Nepali community partners in North Carolina, Aum Ashram San Antonio, Hindus of Greater Houston and its broader network. $100,000released 48hours to mobilise 300tarpaulins ▸ Support the Nepal Flash Flood Relief ▸ Nepal rescue helpdesk

Spokane Valley, Washington · 16 August · No. 14 Mattresses and blankets for wildfire-affected families A hundred families in the first phase, and 150 blankets flown to Coulee Dam Sewa's wildfire recovery effort provided mattresses, blankets and essential materials to 100 affected families in the first phase of the disaster response in Spokane Valley, Washington, on 16 August. Volunteers of the Sewa International Seattle chapter, with LEAD students and alumni, organised and transported relief supplies to the affected communities. Volunteers transported mattresses, pillows and 150 blankets to Arlington Airport near Seattle for air shipment, with Coulee Dam identified as the destination for the blanket shipment. At the distribution site Sewa volunteers received the shipment, loaded it to vehicles and worked with a local logistics partner to reach the families that needed bedding. 100families 150blankets

Peoria, Arizona · 15 August · No. 15 Adopt-a-Street: a mile of Lake Pleasant Parkway The City of Peoria accepts Sewa's proposal; three cleanups a year Sewa Phoenix began its Adopt-a-Street initiative along Lake Pleasant Parkway in Peoria, Arizona, on 15 August. Volunteers removed litter and helped maintain the area as a clean and welcoming public space. The City of Peoria accepted Sewa International's proposal to maintain a one-mile stretch of the road between Happy Valley Road and Pinnacle Peak Road, and Sewa Phoenix is committed to organising cleanup activities along the adopted stretch three times a year. 1mile adopted 3cleanups a year

Shraddhanjali

New Delhi · 10 September · No. 16 A Balakrishnan, a Sampoorna Karyakarta President of Vivekanand Kendra, remembered in New Delhi and Guwahati A Shraddhanjali Sabha in remembrance of A Balakrishnan, President of Vivekanand Kendra, was held in New Delhi on 10 September, honouring a life devoted to the service of society. RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat offered Pushpanjali and remembered him as a Sampoorna Karyakarta whose life was defined by an unwavering commitment to duty; his dedication, simplicity and steadfast sense of duty remain an enduring example of selfless service. Condolence messages from Mata Amritanandamayi and Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi were read during the Sabha. Earlier, on 7 September, a Shraddhanjali Sabha was held in Guwahati where eminent personalities including RSS Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale paid tributes. A Balakrishnan passed away on 26 August at the age of 88.

Vichar · Essay The Third Wave of Enlightenment From Swamiji to Sarsanghchalak — why three addresses in North America may mark a new awakening Mukul Kanitkar · RSS Global Dialogue

Ruchinam Vaichitryat Rujukutil Nana Pathjusham | Nrinaam eko gamyah tvamasi payasaam Arnav iva || — As all rivers, flowing by curved or straight paths, finally reach the ocean, so all people, practising according to their distinct interests, finally attain You, the Ultimate. Param Pujaniya Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat's sojourn in North America was initiated as a routine global dialogue tour of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. As this is the centenary year of the Sangh, the tour gained more publicity, and those who opposed it helped enhance the curiosity. This was all along expected lines. But three public addresses changed the orbit completely. It was a quantum jump in the mission of rousing humanity. The eternal message of Hindutva has been disseminated throughout the world for ages. This has been the life mission of Bharat. The same thought was expressed in three different dimensions, according to the occasion and the audience. In the first programme, an interfaith dialogue titled 'One World, One Humanity', Mohan Ji asserted the immortal proclamation of the Rishis, that truth is one and knowledgeable seers express it variously — in contemporary idiom, unity manifesting in diversity. The next large multinational gathering at Madison Square Garden witnessed a futuristic elaboration of the foundational concept of Hindutva: Oneness. The concept of Brahmanda is more profound than the expression 'Universe', but due to the limitations of the English language it had to be explained in established terms such as 'Universal Oneness'. The third programme, in Toronto, was on the role of Hindus and Bharat in guiding humanity towards practising this art and science of harmonious living. To regain the acclaimed position of Vishwaguru, a Hindu must first become Vishwabandhu — friend of all. Three dimensions of one eternal principle All three messages are essentially a gradual unfolding of the eternal principle of existential unity. Oneness and its omnipresence, its diverse manifestations, and the benevolent role of Hindus in re-establishing this harmonious world order — all three are essential today. Mohan Ji explained the vision, Oneness; its application, Diversity; and its process, Brotherhood, respectively in the three addresses. Everything in Bharat is neither the first nor novel, and the same is true of this call to rise. It has happened innumerable times in the known and documented history of Bharat. But in recent times in North America, this is the third wave of enlightenment from the land of the Vedas. The US, being the self-proclaimed dominant leader of the world, amplified these waves to affect western intellectuals and academics, and then to ripple across the whole world. The first wave was Swami Vivekananda's Chicago Address on 11 September 1893. At the World's Parliament of Religions, organised by the Church to declare Christianity the supreme religion, Swamiji delivered the all-inclusive message of Hindutva. It is even now celebrated as a clarion call for universal brotherhood. This was continued by Swami Abhedananda, Swami Ramananda, Swami Yogananda, Shri La Prabhupada and many others. A great contribution to the west's journey of self-realisation was made by Osho Rajneesh and Maharshi Mahesh Yogi in the last century. All of them faced irrational opposition, character assassination and institutional obstruction, but the wave of Oriental awakening perpetuated. It was taken forward in the present era by contemporary gurus such as TVS Iyengar, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev and Swami Ramdev. One of the greatest self-realised masters of the present times is Mata Amritanandamayi, whose divine hug of oneness has transformed millions of sadhakas in more than 180 countries. All this Hindu influence actualised in the second wave of enlightenment on 21 June 2015, in the form of the International Day of Yoga. The whole world was inspired to search within by practising oneness through Yoga. This was the invocation of Bharat Mata becoming Vishwaguru once again. We do not just tolerate other religions; we accept every religion as true. The third wave The present visit is in the same league — the third wave of enlightenment. Swami Vivekananda philosophically illustrated the oneness of Hindus when he said we do not just tolerate other religions, we accept every religion as true. The second wave, the International Day of Yoga, put this transcendence into practice when millions of followers of various religious ideologies came together to perform yogic practices. It was another Vivekananda moment when Mohan Ji summed up the message of the interfaith meet by saying that there are multiple ways to reach the ultimate truth. One can seek the Supreme through various paths; every genuine enquiry of a seeker, practised incessantly, has the potential to reach the same Absolute. This is very natural for a Hindu who chants many shlokas. For a follower of any of the Abrahamic religions, this all-inclusive monotheism is very hard to swallow. For them there is only one God, one messenger and one path to salvation. If they accept that there can be multiple paths to Mukti, it takes away their foundation for conversion. This is what Swami Vivekananda did 133 years ago when he called the church bell rung in honour of the conference a death knell for bigotry and hatred towards others. Mohan Ji's definition of Hindutva as an inclusive way of life is of the same order. His most discussed and misquoted statement — that if anyone imagines Bharat without any Muslim, he is not a Hindu — in fact enshrines the basic principle that all religions are true. This is the essence of Hindu Dharma: we do not believe in annihilation, we assimilate all. All the Hindus in Bharat envision an integrated Bharat, and for that we all have to learn to live together amicably. This is possible only when Hindus are united and strong; when Hindu Dharma weakens, the world suffers intolerance and violence. Eleanor Stark, in 1988, wrote a book titled 'The Gift Unopened: A New American Revolution'. She called Swami Vivekananda's message the gift unopened by Americans, and argued that the problems the US faced at that time could have been avoided had they heeded the teachings of Vedanta. Americans, she wrote, wasted a great opportunity, and she called upon them to awaken. The first wave of enlightenment was triggered by the individual brilliance of Swami Vivekananda, unbacked by any institutional mechanism; its effect was more of an awe, and it helped Swamiji start a mission in Bharat. The second was backed by many institutions, albeit competing, and finally with government backing succeeded in the declaration of the International Day of Yoga; its influence is exemplary yet limited to the discipline of Yoga. The third wave is neither personality-oriented nor institutional nor governmental. Though Mohan Ji is the instrument of this great awakening, he represents a movement. The RSS is not just any organisation, nor is it an institute. It is a culmination of the millennia-long penance of the Bharatiya Rishis, and represents Hindu thought as it has evolved eternally. The unique nature of the third wave makes it distinctly transformative: the first wave gave the intellectual foundation, the second gave the process, and the third is holistic, providing an organic ecology for comprehensive solutions to most of the contemporary challenges before humanity. It is our cosmic responsibility not only to celebrate this historic Vivekananda moment but to resolve to contribute to actualising the vision of one world, one family. First published in Organiser Read the original article

Shri Vishwa Niketan samvadnewsletter@gmail.com “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family

Food for thought The key to happiness is non-attachment. Let go of desires and live in the moment, for only then will you find peace. — Bhagwan Mahavir

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Shri Vishwa Niketan  /  Fortnightly digest For private circulation Samvad संवाद 1 September 2026  ·  Bhadra Krishna 4 · Vik. Samvat 2083 · Yugabda 5128 Issue SM8011  ·  15 dispatches from 14 countries

पर्व  Parv  · Festival

Krishna Janmashtami · the dahi handi in Maharashtra

Across Bharat · 4 September · No. 01 Janmashtami, and the many ways it is kept Krishna Janmashtami, on Bhadrapad Ashtami, celebrates the birth of Bhagwan Krishna, the eighth avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu. The midnight vigil known as Jagran is integral to the celebration, symbolising the devotees' readiness to welcome the divine child into their lives. The day-long fast is broken only after midnight, following the ritual of worshipping the baby Krishna. In Maharashtra, Goa and parts of the Terai in Nepal, human pyramids are built to break an earthen pot filled with curd and butter suspended high in the air. In Mathura, Vrindavan and Manipur, local communities stage colourful dance-dramas and plays illustrating scenes from Krishna's playful childhood.

संघ  Sangh  · Organisation

Dr Mohan Bhagwat hoisting the Tiranga · RSS headquarters, Nagpur, 15 August

Nagpur · 15 August · No. 02 The Tiranga at Nagpur: sacrifice, dutifulness and knowledge RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat hoisted the Tiranga at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur on the 80th Independence Day, saying the national flag reminds citizens of the values of sacrifice, dutifulness and knowledge. Debate, dialogue, opposition and protest are all part of democracy, he said, but people must remain mindful of their responsibilities; differing ideas and views are natural in a democracy, where people can present their arguments and respond to those of others. Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale hoisted the Tricolour at the RSS office in Kolkata and called on people to contribute to the nation's development and uphold its unity, integrity and security, adding that everyone should help fulfil the aspirations of the freedom fighters. Sah Sarkaryavah Dr Krishna Gopal hoisted the national flag at the Keshav Kunj office in Delhi. The country became independent after nearly a thousand years of struggle, he said, recalling the heroism of Rana Sanga, Raja Dahir and Rani Chennamma among others who fought against foreign invasions, and the sacrifices made in every province after the British arrived.

Gudilova, Andhra Pradesh · 21 August · No. 03 Samanvay Baithak: 32 organisations, three days of deliberation The three-day Akhil Bharatiya Samanvay Baithak of organisations inspired by the RSS concluded on 21 August at the Vignana Vihara Residential School campus in Gudilova, near Visakhapatnam, after extensive deliberations on the nation, society, social challenges and the future course of work. More than 300 representatives of 32 organisations took part. The meeting was not an executive or decision-making body but a platform for sharing information and strengthening coordination and cooperation among the organisations, which presented their activities, experiences, views and suggestions on issues facing society. Addressing the press on 21 August, Sah Sarkaryavah CR Mukunda said the meeting had reviewed flood relief and rehabilitation work, social harmony programmes linked to the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Ravidas ji, demographic changes and imbalance, and growing drug-related concerns among the young. 300+representatives 32organisations 3days

राष्ट्र  Rashtra  · Bharat

150 Years of Vande Mataram · Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047

New Delhi · 15 August · No. 04 Vande Mataram at the ramparts: Bharat's 80th Swatantrata Diwas The 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort were led by Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi under the themes '150 Years of Vande Mataram' and 'Yuva Shakti for Viksit Bharat@2047'. For the first time, the national song Vande Mataram was formally performed by an Army band at the Red Fort ramparts on the Pradhan Mantri's arrival. A gathering of 2,500 NCC cadets and My Bharat volunteers took part, seated so as to form the words वंदे मातरम् across the Gyanpath. Around 5,000 special guests were invited to witness the event, among them PM Vishwakarma artisans, PM Mudra Yojana women entrepreneurs, street vendors and taxi drivers. In his address, the Pradhan Mantri spoke of the Vande Mataram milestone, the resolve to become the third largest economy, the focus on youth and technology, and national security. 2,500NCC cadets 5,000special guests 150years of Vande Mataram ▸ Watch the full programme

पुस्तक समीक्षा  Book Review

Reviewed for Samvad · No. 05 Grit and Glory: how the Northeast was transformed, one heart at a time 'Grit & Glory: How India's Northeast was Transformed One Heart at a Time', by Abhijit Joag, details the untold stories of volunteers and workers who dedicated their lives to nation-building and to fostering peace in Northeast Bharat. The book examines the region's shift away from a history marked by alienation and insurgency towards greater integration, development and trust. It focuses on ordinary young workers who left the comforts of home for a path of silence, sacrifice and service in communities where outsiders had historically struggled to find acceptance. Rather than relying on statistics or government documents, the narrative holds to individual lived experience, relationships and the quiet efforts that transformed the region one heart at a time. ▸ Read the review in Organiser ▸ Buy the book

विश्व  Vishwa  · Bharatiya Diaspora

Dr Mohan Bhagwat with faith leaders on stage · Universal Oneness Celebration, Madison Square, New York

New York · 29 August · No. 06 Five thousand from 39 states: the Universal Oneness Celebration More than 5,000 people from 85 cities across 39 US states, and 250 students from various universities, attended the 'Universal Oneness Celebration' at Madison Square on 29 August. According to the organisers, the AHEAD forum — American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue — more than 250 organisations partnered for the event, among them Hindu-American organisations, mandirs, yoga groups and cultural organisations. The programme was an interfaith, cultural and spiritual event around the themes of unity, service, dialogue and harmony. It brought together  interfaith  leaders representing more than 180 faith leaders from 30 countries, with cultural performances drawn from Africa, Latin America, China, Europe and the Middle East, carrying a message of unity in diversity and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. In his keynote address, RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat said that human intelligence carries a moral obligation to sustain the world through right thinking and selfless service. Every nation has a message to deliver and a mission to accomplish, he said; the mission of Bharat is to realise, and from time to time make the world realise, the truth of unity in diversity. The duty of a Bharatiya is to give this message to the world through practice, not merely preaching, and the diaspora should be loyal to their Karmabhoomi while living by the values that Janmabhoomi Bharat has imparted. Before the keynote, interfaith leaders spoke on oneness, kindness and compassion. They included Rabbi Jacob Blumenthal, chief executive of the Rabbinical Assembly; Reverend Adriene Thorne, eighth senior minister of the historic Riverside Church in New York City and the first African American woman to hold that position; and Talib M Shareef, president and Imam of Masjid Muhammad in Washington, DC, known as 'The Nation's Mosque'. “The mission of Bharat is to realise, and from time to time make the world realise, the truth of unity in diversity.” 5,000attended 39US states 180+faith leaders ▸ Watch the full programme

Landmarks in the tricolour · flag-hoisting across 54 countries

Fifty-four countries · 15 August · No. 07 From Fiji westward: the 80th Swatantrata Diwas overseas Bharat marked its 80th Independence Day with celebrations led by the diaspora, foreign governments and international landmarks. Bharatiya communities gathered at diplomatic missions from Paris to Chile and across the Pacific, Gulf and Americas for flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural events, with missions synchronising the hoisting across time zones in 54 countries, beginning in Fiji and moving westward to San Francisco. Iconic sites lit up in the tricolour, among them the Floralis Genérica and the Puente de la Mujer in Buenos Aires, and the Empire State Building and the Space Needle in the United States. In Wellington, more than 500 members of the diaspora and local friends joined the celebrations, where High Commissioner Muanpuii Saiawi hoisted the Tricolour and read the President's address. In Tokyo, school students and members of the community added patriotic songs honouring those who fought for Bharat's independence. In Moscow the celebrations began with floral tributes at the Mahatma Gandhi statue followed by a collective singing of Vande Mataram; in Rome a cultural programme carried a rendition of the same; and in Riyadh the embassy staged a semi-classical dance on Vande Mataram. Hundreds of Namibians and members of the diaspora gathered at the High Commission of Bharat in Windhoek, while the High Commission in Pretoria hosted a reception bringing together senior South African officials, the diplomatic corps, business leaders and the Bharatiya community. In several Northeastern and Midwestern states of the USA, proclamations marked the day and recognised the contributions of the Bharatiya-American community. 54countries 500+in Wellington

Taipei, Taiwan · 25 July · No. 08 Gurupournima Utsav at two shakhas in Taiwan HSS Taiwan celebrated Gurupournima Utsav on 25 July at the Swami Vivekanand Shakha in Nangang District, Taipei City, where 19 swayamsevaks and sevikas took part. The Utsav was an occasion to revisit and reflect upon the sacred Guru-Shishya Parampara. Thirteen karyakartas took part in the Gurupournima Utsav organised at the Guruji Golwalkar Shakha in the Guishan and Linkou area on 22 August. The gatherings brought everyone together to reflect on the ideals of Gurupournima and to strengthen the spirit of collective participation and dedication. 19at Taipei 13at Guishan

Maputo, Mozambique · No. 09 Rakhis for the Mozambican Defence Force HSS Mozambique celebrated Rakshabandhan at the premises of the High Commission of Bharat, bringing together members of the Mozambican Defence Force and representatives of the High Commission staff to mark friendship, solidarity and mutual respect. Around 12 members of the FADM attended, a mark of the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The event was graced by H.E. Robert Shetkintong, High Commissioner of Bharat to Mozambique, and the broader message of friendship, solidarity, gratitude and service was highlighted throughout.

Edogawa, Japan · No. 10 Ten years of thank-you cards in Edogawa The HSS Japan team in Edogawa visited the Ward Office, the Fire Station and the Police Station to exchange Rakshabandhan greetings. This year marked the tenth anniversary of children visiting these community institutions to share their regards and express their thanks. As part of HSS's celebration of Raksha Bandhan as Universal Oneness Day, the children also prepared special thank-you cards for the people who keep the community safe, supported and connected.

San Antonio · Iowa City · Naperville · No. 11 Rakhis for those who serve: Universal Oneness Day across the USA On 7 August, HSS San Antonio Vibhag visited the Prue Road SAPD station and shared the significance of Rakshabandhan with the police officers, an occasion to express gratitude to those who work to protect and serve the community. Through this simple tradition, the idea was celebrated that the bonds which unite can extend beyond family, culture and background. The HSS Shiv-Shakti Shakha of Iowa City celebrated Rakshabandhan with the firefighters of the North Liberty Fire Department, swayamsevaks tying rakhis in gratitude for their courage, service and commitment. HSS also hosted its annual Raksha Bandhan celebration in Naperville on 11 August, honouring officers of the Naperville Police Department and members of the Naperville Fire Department. The event drew a strong turnout, with the Mayor of Naperville, the Police Chief and the Fire Chief joining officers, firefighters and HSS families. It was organised by the HSS volunteer team in partnership with the two departments.

Sydney, Australia · No. 12 Twenty years of Sanskrit, marked at the NSW Parliament The School of Vedic Sciences (Aust), also known as the Sydney Sanskrit School, hosted a celebration at The McKell Room in the NSW Parliament to mark 20 years of Sanskrit teaching, with the official release of its Commemorative Multicultural Pin. Around 50 guests attended, among them NSW Premier Hon. Chris Minns and Minister Hon. Anoulack Chanthivong. The programme included a Ganesha Vandana performance and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp accompanied by Vedic mantras. Attendees heard the Australian national anthem sung in English and Sanskrit by students and teachers, an overview of the school by its President Karthikeyan Subramanian, and the story of the pin's creation by the student Manognya Ghanalinga. The afternoon closed with the release of the pin and an address by the Premier. 20years 50guests

Morari Bapu at Sanders Theatre, Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts · 15 August · No. 13 Manas Guru Prasad: nine days of Ramcharitmanas at Harvard Morari Bapu commenced a nine-day recital of the Ramcharitmanas, titled 'Manas Guru Prasad', at Harvard University's Sanders Theatre on 15 August, coinciding with the 80th Independence Day celebrations of Bharat. The opening brought together sadhus, spiritual leaders, Katha narrators, scholars, musicians, artists and international academics. The Katha continued until 23 August, with a three-day scholarly discussion from the 16th to the 18th, and the programme also commemorated Tulsi Jayanti on 19 August, the birth anniversary of the poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas. Lord Dolar Popat, a member of the UK House of Lords, drew a connection between Harvard's motto Veritas and Morari Bapu's core message of Satya, Prem and Karuna — truth, love and compassion. Morari Bapu said the gathering was not simply an academic or historical occasion but a spiritual convergence.

सेवा  Seva  · Relief work

Nuwakot, Nepal · No. 14 Nepal floods: Sewa International and HSS launch relief operations Severe floods and landslides have caused widespread loss of life and property across several districts of Nepal, with the situation most critical in Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan and East Nawalparasi. More than 500 tourists remain unaccounted for, including 466 foreign nationals. Difficult terrain, damaged roads and bridges and disrupted communications have made it hard to establish contact with many travellers. Sewa International Nepal, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh Nepal, and many other organisations have launched a relief and service operation for affected families. A team of relief workers has reached Nuwakot, where they are assessing the situation, identifying urgent needs and coordinating assistance, working with local communities to determine the most pressing requirements and to reach people cut off by damaged roads and bridges. Relief materials and food supplies are being collected in Kathmandu, where volunteers are gathering essential items and arranging transport. Food, drinking water, clothing, hygiene supplies and first-aid materials are being prioritised according to need. Workers remain active both on the ground and in Kathmandu, and the campaign is expected to expand further as needs emerge. 500+tourists unaccounted for 5districts worst hit

Nutrition and wellness session, Houston · the Summer Interns Class of 2026

Houston · 16 August · No. 15 Sewa International USA: a wellness session and a summer of service The Houston Chapter, with Jain Vishwa Bharti, organised a Nutrition and Wellness Session and Body Mass Composition Scan on 16 August at the JVB Preksha Meditation Center. Led by Dr Ajay K. Bhora, the session focused on the role of nutrition, maintaining a healthy body composition and making informed lifestyle choices. Participants received complimentary assessments and personalised health reviews covering body fat, muscle mass and water levels. Sewa International also celebrated its Summer Interns Class of 2026, bringing together high school graduates, their families and core team members. The keynote speaker, Judge Surendran Pattel, shared his journey as an immigrant, and Dr Kamini Muzumdar encouraged the students to remain resilient. Over the summer the interns contributed more than 3,200 hours of service. 3,200hours of service

विचार  Vichar · Essay From Vedas to Microchips How Bharat is turning the ancient principle of ahimsa into modern animal-free science Vivek Kumar

Yastu sarvāni bhūtāni ātmanyevānupaśyati, sarvabhūtesu chātmānam tato na vijugupsate. — One who sees all beings in the self, and the self in all beings, feels no hatred or revulsion toward any creature. Long before the word bioethics entered any scientific vocabulary, Bharat had already given the world a founding principle for how living beings ought to treat one another: ahimsa. Mahavira preached it as the highest duty. The Buddha built an entire path of liberation around it. Ashoka, after Kalinga, carved it into stone and sent it across an empire as state policy. Compassion for all sentient life, karuna, was never a sentiment reserved for the temple or the sermon in this civilisation; it was meant to be lived, legislated and practised. Two and a half millennia later, in laboratories from Bengaluru to Faridabad to Hyderabad, that same conviction is quietly reshaping the frontiers of Bharatiya science — not through renunciation of progress but through the invention of it. The uncomfortable answer The question of how new medicines are tested has long carried an uncomfortable answer: animals. Rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and primates have for decades borne the first burden of humanity's search for cures, absorbing toxicity that might otherwise fall on human patients. It is a practice the world still leans on, Bharat included, because complex biological systems have been notoriously difficult to replicate outside a living body. That difficulty is no longer the final word. Across three of Bharat's premier scientific establishments — the Indian Council of Medical Research, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, and the Department of Biotechnology — a quiet movement is under way to build human-predictive alternatives. These are not confined to showcase laboratories; they are spread across 71 institutes and laboratories nationwide, a footprint that speaks to how deeply the philosophy has been absorbed into the research establishment rather than kept as an isolated experiment. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research has moved in step. Eight CSIR laboratories now report active capabilities in one or more alternative approaches — advanced in-vitro and cell-based systems, three-dimensional organoids, organ-on-chip platforms or in-silico modelling — each contributing distinct strengths to a shared national capability rather than duplicating effort. Among them is the Centre for Predictive Human Model Systems at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, advancing organoids, stem-cell-based models and other cell-based platforms as tools of predictive, human-relevant science. From compassion to capability What distinguishes this moment is that compassion has not been allowed to remain an abstraction; it has been engineered into capability. Several DBT-backed projects are already under development, including a lung-on-chip platform designed to assess monoclonal antibodies and a lab-on-chip device engineered to mimic human kidney function, both offering researchers a way to study drug response without a single animal subject. The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council has gone further, opening a dedicated funding call for the Establishment of Preclinical Models for Drug Discovery, inviting proposals to build robust organoid and organ-on-chip platforms alongside other innovative in-vitro approaches — a signal that this is now a funded national priority rather than economic self-reliance alone, but ethical self-definition: a nation building its own scientific future on the foundations of its own philosophical inheritance. Ahimsa was never meant to be a relic of scripture. In the hands of Bharat's scientists it has become a research protocol, a funding priority and a working reality of the modern laboratory. There is something fitting in the image of a scientist in Bengaluru or Faridabad growing a liver organoid in a petri dish so that no rabbit need suffer for a new medicine to reach a patient in Varanasi or Vijayawada. It is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the world as one family, extended at last to the animal kingdom that has silently served human medicine for centuries — a civilisation that never forgot the debt every act of healing owes to compassion. First published in Organiser  Read the Original Article

Shri Vishwa Niketan samvadnewsletter@gmail.com “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family

Food for thought That knowledge which purifies the mind and heart alone is true Knowledge; all else is only a negation of Knowledge. — Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa

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