Monday, June 16, 2025
Ashadha Krishna 4 Vik. Samvat 2082, Yugabda 5127 : 16 June, 2025: SM 7006 (For Private Circulation only)
1. FESTIVALS :
PURI RATH YATRA : JUNE 27: The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the
grandest and spiritually significant festivals in Bharat drawing lakhs of
devotees from across the world.
The festival is also celebrated by the Bharatiya diaspora in the UK, Canada,
Australia, Singapore, South Africa, and several other countries. -GoTop
2. RSS SWAYAMSEVAKS OFTEN REACH EXTRAORDINARY HEIGHTS
THROUGH THEIR ACTIONS: DR BHAGWAT: The swayamsevaks of the Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) lead ordinary lives but often reach extraordinary
heights through their actions, all the while striving for the upliftment of
society, said RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat while speaking at the launch
of the two-volume book series Sangh Jeevan Part 1 and 2 at the Shikshak Sahakari
Bank auditorium in Nagpur.
3. KARYAKARTA VIKAS VARG 2 CONCLUDED IN NAGPUR: On June
5, RSS concluded its Karyakarta Vikas Varg 2 at the Reshimbagh campus, Nagpur.
Attended by 840 participants, including 191 full-time pracharaks, this training
camp served not merely as an educational exercise but as a reaffirmation of the
Sangh’s foundational principles.
4. MASSIVE GATHERING AT AGRA’S GIC GROUND TO HONOUR
AHILYABAI HOLKAR: A huge event was held on June 1 at the GIC Ground in Agra
to mark the tricentenary of Punyashloka Ahilyabai Holkar. Around 50,000 people
from across the country attended the ceremony. The event was graced by several
important dignitaries including UpRashtrapati Jagdeep Dhankhar, Haryana Governor
Bandaru Dattatreya, and Uttar Pradesh Mukhya Mantri Yogi Adityanath.
5. PM MODI INAUGURATED WORLD’S HIGHEST RAILWAY BRIDGE:
On June 6, Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi inaugurated Chenab railway bridge, the
world’s highest rail bridge, marking a historic milestone in Bharat’s
infrastructure journey. During the visit, PM Modi also interacted with
engineers, workers, and officials who were involved in the execution of the
ambitious project that connects Kashmir to the rest of Bharat by rail.
6. 60 YEARS OF EKATMA MANAV DARSHAN – NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation and Public Policy Research
Centre organized a National Commemorative Seminar on 60 years of Pandit
Deendayal Upadhyaya’s Integral Humanism Lectures. It was held from May 31 to
June 1 at NDMC Convention Centre, New Delhi.
Attended by hundreds of thinkers and young leaders, the seminar reaffirmed the
relevance of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s Ekatma Manav Darshan in shaping
Bharat’s future. -GoTop
7. RSS SWAYAMSEVAKS STEP UP TO HELP MEDICAL TEAM AT CIVIL
HOSPITAL, KARNAVATI: In the aftermath of the Boeing Dreamliner plane crash
in Karnavati, RSS swayamsevaks have actively engaged in relief and support work
at Civil Hospital - assisting medical teams, guiding victims’ families, and
ensuring smooth coordination on the ground.
8. HSS GURUVANDANA EVENTS: The Wilton Chapter of Hindu
Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) USA hosted its annual Teacher’s Appreciation Event at
Comstock Community Center, bringing together educators from Wilton and
surrounding towns. More than 40 teachers and guests, along with their families,
participated in the event.
On May 12th, the Woodbridge chapter of HSS USA, organized an event at the Kiddie
Keep Well Camp in Edison to felicitate the teachers at local schools. Fifteen
teachers from different Elementary and Middle schools in Woodbridge, Edison and
Scotch Plains Fanwood School Districts and their families attended. The Mayor of
Woodbridge John McCormoac and Raunak Patel, a member of the Edison School Board,
also participated in the event. The program included cultural activities and
teacher felicitation.
9. HSS JAPAN PARIVARIK SHIBIR; The 6th Family Shibir of
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Japan was held on May 17–18 as a 2-day residential
camp. 86 shibirarthis from 9 different shakhas participated in the shibir. For
the first time, participants from Japanese and Nepali backgrounds also took
part.
10. SEVA KUTUMBA SANGAMAM SRI LANKA: On May 24, Seva
International Foundation Sri Lanka hosted Seva Kutumba Sangamam at Swami
Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic Studies, Batticaloa. More than 1500
participants including community leaders, beneficiaries, and supporters
reflected on the impact of recent programs, particularly those focused on
empowering women and children. The ‘Seva Exhibition and Display’ showcased
achievements and progress of 963 Seva Families.
The gathering featured a series of speeches from esteemed guests including
Global Coordinator of Sewa International and Secretary of Sewa International
Bharat Shyam Parande, who shared insights on the importance of community support
and education. Attendees also participated in the distribution of essential
supplies, reinforcing Seva International’s commitment to uplifting families in
need. This event not only highlighted the foundation's accomplishments over the
past year but also strengthened the bonds within the community, fostering a
spirit of collaboration and shared purpose.
Established in 2000, the foundation has actively contributed to humanitarian
efforts in Sri Lanka, particularly during crises such as the tsunami,
landslides, and ongoing economic hardships since 2020. With a strong focus on
empowering women and children, Seva International aims to create sustainable
solutions that foster resilience and independence within communities. Over the
years, it has successfully implemented various initiatives, providing essential
support to thousands of families in need. -GoTop
11. SEWA IN FLOOD AFFECTED REGIONS IN NSW: Caused by a
slow-moving low-pressure system, massive flooding impacted the New South Wales
coast of Australia including the cities of Taree, Kempsey and Sawtell among
others. More than 48,000 people were isolated by the flooding and more than
10,000 homes were at risk.
The Hindu Council of Australia, through its Karma Kitchen and Hindu Benevolence
Fund (HBF) teams, worked alongside the NSW State Emergency Services (SES) to
support affected communities and offered food, care, and comfort, providing calm
amid chaos. -GoTop
12. ICCS BHARAT INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE: On May 31 -
June 1, International Centre for Cultural Studies (ICCS) Bharat, in
collaboration with Bharatiya Sanskriti Vaishvik Kendra and the Sharda School of
Humanities and Social Sciences, organised a seminar titled ‘Shifting the Lens:
Undoing Colonial Infrastructure Towards Global Indigenous Resurgence’ at the
Sharada University in Greater Noida.
The sessions at the conference included the philosophy of interconnectedness,
research methods for ancient traditions, decolonising ancient traditions and
history and lessons from ancient traditions. -GoTop
13. ICCS MUSEUM OF WORLD ANCIENT TRADITIONS INAUGURATED:
On June 12, International Centre for Cultural Studies (ICCS) inaugurated the
Museum of World Ancient Traditions at its office in Keshav Kunj, New Delhi. It
was attended by over 100 distinguished delegates from various institutions and
cultural organisations.
14. BUDDHA RELICS RETURNS AFTER VIETNAM PILGRIMAGE: The
sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha returned to Bharat on June 3 after a month-long
exposition across nine Vietnamese cities, drawing over 17.8 million devotees.
15. POSON POYA – MARKING ARRIVAL OF BUDDHISM OVER 2000
YEARS AGO IN SRI LANKA: Sri Lanka celebrated the sacred Poson Poya festival,
marking the historic arrival of Buddhism over 2,000 years ago. Observed on the
June full moon, the festival commemorates the first sermon preached by Arahat
Mahinda, son of Emperor Ashoka, to King Devanampiyatissa at Mihintale. Thousands
of devotees gathered at the Mihintale Hill and other sacred sites such as
Anuradhapura, which are central to the celebrations.
16. RAM DARBAR CONSECRATED IN AYODHYA: The Ram
Janmabhoomi Mandir witnessed the grand Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Darbar on June
5. With sacred chants echoing through the air and rituals steeped in Vedic
precision, the divine ensemble of Bhagwan Ram, Sita, Lakshman, Bharat,
Shatrughna and Hanuman was ceremonially installed on the first floor of the
mandir.
The idols, including Bhagwan Ram seated on an ornate throne, are sculpted from a
rare kind of marble — slabs that have aged nearly 40 years and are expected to
last a millennium. “This marble is no ordinary stone,” said master sculptor
Satyanarayan Pandey, who supervised the carvings. “It grows more lustrous with
every ritual wash. This is divinity carved in permanence.”-GoTop
17. OVER 20,000 DEVOTEES ATTEND SRI SIVAN MANDIR
CONSECRATION: More than 20,000 devotees gathered to witness the consecration
of the Sri Sivan Mandir on June 8. The Geylang East mandir, one of the oldest
Hindu mandirs in Singapore, has a history that dates back to the 1800s. The
event was attended by Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister
for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam.
18. DR. MANOHAR SINGH AS CHANCELLOR AT UW-OSHKOSH: Dr.
Manohar Singh, currently serving as interim president of Western Connecticut
State University, has been named the 12th Chancellor of the University of
Wisconsin–Oshkosh. He will officially begin his leadership role on July 1.
19. BHARATIYA-ORIGIN PHYSICIAN SWORN IN AS AMERICAN MEDICAL
ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT: Bharatiya-origin physician Bobby Mukkamala has been
sworn in as the 180th president of the American Medical Association, becoming
the first physician of Bharatiya heritage to lead the organisation. Mukkamala,
an otolaryngologist - an ear, nose, and throat specialist - took the oath on
June 10, according to a statement by the association.
20. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: Pravas: Visitors:
FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
The explorers
seek happiness in finding curiosities, discovering new lands and undergoing
risks in adventures. They are thrilling. But where is pleasure found? Only
within…..
– Ramana Maharshi.
-GoTop
JAI SHRI RAM
---
INTERVIEW OF SARSANGHCHALAK DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT
...contd. from last issue ....
Q: How has Sangh's work been
growing in the Vanavasi (Scheduled Tribe) areas?
The primary work in the forest areas is to empower the tribal people and serve
them. Later, the efforts for safeguarding their interests were also included. We
aspire that the leadership should emerge among the Janjatiya from within—leaders
who care for their own people and see themselves as an integral part of the
nation.
The number of Swayamsevaks working in these areas is steadily increasing. The
efforts to build leadership and Karyakartas at the grassroots level, who would
echo the national sentiments and contribute accordingly, are going on. To
achieve the same, reawakening about the Scheduled Tribe traditions, their roots,
local icons and their contribution in the freedom struggle is necessary. Shakhas
are expanding across tribal regions of Bharat including the North-eastern
parts.
Someone will worry about Hindus, only when Hindus are strong enough. As Hindu
society and Bharat are intertwined a glorious nature of Hindu society will bring
in glory for Bharat. Such a strong Hindu society only can present a model for
taking along the people of Bharat who do not consider themselves Hindus, as at
one point they were also Hindus. If the Hindu society of Bharat becomes strong,
then automatically Hindus will gain strength globally. This work is going on,
but it is not yet complete. Slowly but surely that situation is evolving.
This time the way anguish against the atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh has
been expressed, this is unprecedented. Even Local Hindus now say: “We won’t
flee. We’ll stay and fight for our rights.”
Now, the internal strength of the Hindu society is increasing. As the
organisation grows, its impact will translate naturally. Until then, we must
keep fighting.
Wherever Hindus are there in the world, we will do everything possible for them
following the international norms, Sangh exists for the same. Swayamsevaks take
oath ‘to work for all-over development of the Hindu Rashtra by protecting
Dharma, Sanskriti, and society’.
Q: What is the Sangh’s vision regarding national security, military strength,
and economic power?
We must strive for strength. As we pray through the daily Prarthana: "Ajayya cha
viśvasya dehīśa śaktim" — “Grant us such a strength that globally we are
invincible”.
True strength is internal. For national security, we must not be dependent on
others. We should be able to defend ourselves. No one should be able to conquer
us—not even if multiple powers come together. There are evil forces in the world
who are aggressive by nature. A virtuous person is not safe just because of his
virtues; hence, virtues should be combined with strength. Mere brute power can
be directionless, leading to blatant violence; hence power should be combined
with righteousness. So we must worship for both - virtues and strength. For the
protection of the good, for the destruction of the wicked, should be the nature
of our power. When no option is available, then wickedness has to be eradicated
forcefully. WE are not doing this to dominate the world trade, but to ensure
that everyone should be able to lead peaceful, healthy and empowered life. We
have no option but to be powerful as we have been witnessing the wickedness of
the evil forces on all our borders.
Q: Given Bharat’s linguistic, religious, and cultural diversity, how does
Sangh promote inclusivity?
Come and see yourself, people from all languages, sects, and backgrounds work
together in the Sangh, with a great joy. The Sangh songs are there not just in
Hindi but in multiple languages. Each language has poets, singers and composers
who compose patriotic and inspirational songs of Sangh, and yet the three songs
in different languages assigned during the Sangh Shiksha Varg are sung across
Bharat. While retaining the unique identity, everyone is working by upholding
the sense of one nationhood and unity and integrity of the nation. This is Sangh
– that provides a thread to put all diversities in one garland of unity.
Q: The Sangh talks and works for Samarasta (समरसता),
but some people speak for equality. How do you differentiate the two?
Equality is economic and political and we are striving for social equality,
without which first two will be meaningless. Fraternity is Samarasta (Social
harmony); the edifice of freedom and equality rests on fraternity. Equality
without freedom brings restrictions and if it has to be sustainable, then the
basis of fraternity is inevitable. This sense of Brotherhood is Samarasta. Even
after legislating laws against casteism and untouchability, inequalities do not
go away as it resides in mind. It has to be mentally eradicated. We are equal
because all are ours has to be the conviction. Even if we do not look alike, we
belong to each other, we are bound by affinity, and this is called Samrasata. It
is nothing but sense of affinity and fraternity.
Q: The Sangh often faces questions about women's participation. What is your
response?
In the early days of the Sangh, around 1933, it was decided that the work of
personality development and social organisation among women would be done by the
Rashtra Sevika Samiti. It continues to function effectively. Whenever Samiti
expects Sangh to work among women (for the Shakha work), then only we will think
about it.
Another aspect is, the RSS shakha format is designed for men, but women observe
and attend freely. Also, the Sangh doesn’t function only on the basis of male
karyakartas —mothers and sisters support the work fully, then only Sangh
functions. Every woman in a swayamsevak’s family is part and parcel of the Sangh.
Women also work together with the Sangh swayamsevaks in various organisations.
They also have representation and active participation in the meeting of the
Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (national council – the highest decision making
body) of the Sangh. Some of these women have led major survey on status of women
which the government has also accepted. Last year, massive women's conferences
were held with lakhs in attendance.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh supported and cooperated in all these works. We
believe: women’s upliftment is not dependent on men, they will do it themselves.
Women will empower themselves and it will automatically empower everyone. Hence,
we give emphasise on supporting them for what they think is necessary for their
transformation.
Q: In the centenary year, the Sangh has resolved for ‘Panch Parivartan’ (Five
Transformations). What is the plan ahead on this?
For the behavioural transformation, mindset is the key. Whatever action
transforms the minds and habits—that work needs to be given. Hence, Panch
Parivartan:
Samajik Samarasta - Social harmony is the first task. There should be affinity
in the society. There is a diversity, of stages, geographical conditions,
problems, in our vast society. If we have to find a way-out in this situation
then there has to be provisions based on informed consensus, then only everyone
will accept it, without diluting the sense of affinity.
Samajik Samarasta must be practiced, not just spoken of or advertised. We
consider all as one, I must have friends of all castes and class, my family must
have too. Temples, cremation grounds, and water bodies must be inclusive where
Sangh has influence. This is already going on, we must expand it.
The same thing applied to Kutumb Prabodhan. Things that provide relief to the
world, that come from essential traditional values, are in our family tradition
and the customs of the country. Sitting together, discussing, agreeing on them
and bringing them into the family's conduct, this is family enlightenment. The
value of family as a global model must be reintroduced rooted in samskaras
(values).
For Paryavaran (Environmental Awareness), there are many things going on,
including various movements. But, people do not worry about the water being
wasted in their homes; pay attention to that first. Plant trees, remove
single-use plastic, save water. Doing this develops the understanding, one
starts thinking about the environment.
The same can be done about Swa (Selfhood). Our conduct should be based on
national selfhood. In our families, we must follow our own traditions when it
comes to food, dressing, language, home, worship and travel. We need to adjust
when outside, but nurture the family values based on selfhood at home. Until we
are fully self-reliant, we must fulfil our needs with Swadeshi products. We have
to make this a habit. This does not mean that we should stop international
trade; we must balance global engagement with national interest. If there’s no
Bharatiya substitute or alternative, things may be brought from outside, but
then it must happen on our own terms, and not under any foreign pressure. All
this will constitute the conduct based on selfhood.
The last one is Civic Duties that is following the law, the constitution, and
social decency.
Swayamsevaks will inculcate these five resolves and after the centenary year,
through Shakahs this will be carried forward through Shakhas in the society. If
this is brought in behaviour, it will transform the environment and, which will
lead to sustainable transformation. Many things will evolve out of this; let us
see how fast the change takes place.
Q: What is the resolve for the next 25 years?
To unite the entire Hindu society, and take Bharat to the pinnacle of the glory
— and eventually, to extend this transformation to the whole world. Dr Hedgewar
envisioned this in 1920 itself—he urged the Congress to declare that total
independence (purna swarajya) must be our goal and an independent Bharat must
liberate other nations from capitalist bondage.
Q: The Sangh turns 100, and Bharat will complete 100 years of Independence in
2047. How will Bharat become a Vishwaguru (global guide)? Many people are trying
to create divisions in the society? How do you see this?
Our process takes care of all these things. We have been marching forward by
fighting against the three ills of the society —self-oblivion, selfishness and
divisiveness. Now, we are earned trust of the society. This process will go on.
On the basis of affinity, people from all sections of society will develop the
same the sense of belongingness. If we stay organised and dedicated, what is
usually “1 + 1 = 2” will become “1 + 1 = 11”. The work of organised and powerful
Bharat will encompass all walks of life and will continue. Entire world will
emulate the example of harmonious and powerful Bharat that would constructively
contribute to global life.
A senior karyakarta in 1992 had said, people across the globe will form their
own “Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh”. This process of global transformation will
start post-2047 and it won’t take 100 years, 20-30 years would suffice.
Q: What is your final message to well-wishers, thinkers, and Hindu society in
this centenary year?
The Hindu society must awaken now. Forgetting internal divisions and
selfishness, we need to shape our personal, family, social, and professional
life based on Dharmic values rooted in Hindutva (Hinduness). That will pave the
way for a powerful, righteous and self-reliant Bharat. World is waiting for a
new path and Bharat, means Hindu society, has to provide it as a divine duty.
Agricultural, industrial and scientific revolutions are over. Now the world
needs a Dharmik revolution—I am not talking about religion, but based on human
life has to be reorganised based on Truth, Purity, Compassion, and Austerity.
World needs this and Bharat has to inevitably show that path.
We must understand the importance of our Sangh work. There is a need to rise
beyond ‘Me and My Family’ mindset, build such active lives of moving forward
together, so that we become living examples for the world. (Concluded)
https://www.rss.org/Encyc/2025/5/25/Sarsanghchalak-ji-s-interview---RSS-at-100.html
-GoTop
SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN samvadnewsletter@gmail.com http://shrivishwaniketan.
Labels: Samvad: 16 June 2025
Sunday, June 1, 2025
Jyeshtha Shukla 6 Vik. Samvat 2082, Yugabda 5127 : 1 June, 2025: SM 7005 (For Private Circulation only)
1. FESTIVALS:
Ganga Dussehra on Jyeshtha Shukla Dashami (June 5 this year),
celebrates the avatarana (descent) of the river Ganga from heaven to earth.
Haridwar, Varanasi, Garhmukteshwar, Rishikesh, Prayagraj, and Patna are some of
the locations of the celebrations, where devotees take a dip in Ganga and
perform aartis.
2. GLOBAL WELFARE IS DHARMA OF BHARAT: DR MOHAN BHAGWAT:
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat said at an
event organised in the memory of Ravinath Maharaj at Ravinath Ashram in Jaipur
that the nations that Bharat helps sometimes drift in opposite directions from
time to time, yet we continue to help them because we are driven by a spirit of
cooperation. He stated that the welfare of the world is our Dharma and Bharat
bears no ill will towards anyone. The world however only listens to the language
of love and well-being when one has strength. And so, for the welfare of the
world, Bharat must become strong.
3. UPRASHTRAPATI EMPHASISES INDIGENOUS STRENGTH:
Emphasising that Bharat needs indigenous strength for national security,
Uprashtrapati Jagdeep Dhankhar said on May 27 that war is best avoided from a
position of strength. Speaking at the inaugural session of Rajya Sabha
Internship Program-phase 7, the Uprashtrapati said that Operation Sindoor has
changed the mindset of people massively with regard to national security,
national economy and national welfare. “We are now nationalistic as never
before,” he said.
Technological progress and arms strength contribute to the national strength and
Swadeshi is also closely connected with economic nationalism. He also
highlighted the need for the citizens to carry out their duties. -GoTop
4. PM MODI VISITS NAL AIRBASE: Pradhan Mantri Narendra
Modi visited Bikaner, Rajasthan, on May 21 where he performed a Shakti Puja at
the revered Karni Mata Mandir in Deshnok.
5. BHARAT’S DIPLOMATIC GLOBAL OUTREACH: In a coordinated
diplomatic exercise following the Pahalgam terror attack, Bharatiya
parliamentary delegations, comprising members from across the political
spectrum, are on a global campaign to highlight the threat of cross-border
terrorism and reaffirm Bharat’s resolute stance of zero tolerance.
An all-party delegation from Bharat, led by MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, met with
senior members of the Russian Federation Council, including Andrey Denisov,
first deputy chair of the committee on international affairs. Russia
expressed solidarity with Bharat for elimination of terrorism in all its forms
and manifestations.
In South Korea, a group led by MP Sanjay Kumar Jha met with First Vice
Foreign Minister Kim Hong Kyun who acknowledged Bharat’s strategic restraint and
emphasised opportunities for joint action against terrorism.
In Kuwait, MP Jay Panda led delegation stressed Bharat’s national doctrine of
proactive deterrence with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for
Cabinet Affairs, Sherida A S Al-Maousharji. Both countries reaffirmed a shared
zero-tolerance policy on terrorism. The delegation led by MP Shrikant Shinde
held substantive discussions with senior UAE officials, including Sheikh
Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister for Tolerance and Coexistence.
The Ravi Shankar Prasad led delegation met various Paris-based
think-tanks, discussed Bharat’s firm and clear message against terrorism, and
the challenge posed by terrorism to the world.
Bharat effectively demolished Pakistan’s disinformation campaign at the
United Nations regarding the Indus Waters Treaty. It asserted that Islamabad
violated the treaty’s spirit embodied in the Preamble of the Treaty by
inflicting three wars and thousands of terror attacks on Bharat. -GoTop
6. HSS USA GURUVANDANA: Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS)
USA in the Las Vegas region hosted Guruvandana and honoured more than 24
local teachers in a traditional Hindu ceremony which included arati, flower
garlands, tilak, and gifts.
In the 10th Guruvandana Utsav in the Pittsburgh region, the North and
South Hills clusters of HSS Pittsburgh felicitated 75 teachers and staff from
various school districts in Pittsburgh region. Many were accompanied by their
family members who got to witness the event.
Teachers were honored in the traditional Hindu way at the Guruvandana event in
the Greenburgh Neighborhood. More than 150 guests attended the event.
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner was present for the event and every
teacher received a Certificate from 37th District State Senator Shelley Mayer.
7. HSS TAIWAN HINDU HERITAGE CAMP: The Hindu Heritage
Camp, a vibrant celebration of ancient culture, timeless values, and unity, was
successfully organized by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Taiwan, on May 25, in Guishan
District, Taoyuan City. 45 participants from various cities across Taiwan
including Hsinchu, Taichung, and Taipei attended the event where swayamsevaks,
sevikas and shishus experienced and practiced Bharatiya cultural heritage
through a series of meaningful and engaging activities.
Gurudatta Shenoy and Vilva Murugan from HSS Singapore also guided the
proceedings of the HHC. -GoTop
8. VIRTUAL GREEN SUMMIT DRAWS OVER 150 ATTENDEES: On
April 26, more than 150 participants joined Sewa International’s virtual Green
Summit - Small Steps, Big Impact. The event focused on clean energy, ocean
health, waste reduction, and community action.
Panelists ended by urging daily action like eliminating bottled water use and
consistent youth engagement to influence policy and drive change. -GoTop
9. SEWA FUND RAISING IN DALLAS: Sewa International (SI)
successfully held its fundraising gala in Dallas on May 18. The event brought
together community leaders, generous donors, supporters and dedicated volunteers
to raise vital funds for SI’s diverse projects.
Sewa DFW Chapter Board of Advisors member Dilip Shah explained SI’s impactful
Sewa Hindu Mobile Pantry project and Chief Guest Chandrakant Patel shared his
insightful perspectives about why charity and community service are important.
The funds raised at the gala will directly support Sewa International's ongoing
projects, both locally and globally. -GoTop
10. SEWA INTERNATIONAL HOLDS 19TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE:
Sewa International held its 19th National Conference in San Jose from May 3 to
5. Over 140 volunteers attended, including directors, advisory board members,
executive leaders, chapter presidents, coordinators, and other functionaries.
President Arun Kankani reported that Sewa runs over 75 active projects in eight
countries. In 2024, 29 new projects were added, including Sewa Academy. Over 10
new partners joined in the preceding year, bringing the total to more than 50
partner organizations.
11. UNITED STATES ARMY WELCOMES HINDU CHAPLAIN: In a
landmark moment, Pandit Shyam Maharaj has been appointed as a full-time
active-duty Hindu chaplain in the US Army. Commissioned on May 13, Maharaj
becomes only the second Hindu chaplain in U.S. military history - a pivotal step
forward in the integration of Hindu spiritual care into American institutional
life. The announcement was made by Chinmaya Mission West (CMW), which has served
as the Department of Defense’s sole recognized endorser of Hindu chaplains since
1997.
12. JONAS MASETTI CONFERRED WITH PADMA SHRI AWARD:
Acharya Jonas Masetti, a Brazilian acharya and founder of Vishva Vidya Gurukulam,
received the Padma Shri award from Rashtrapati Droupadi Murmu. Acharya Masetti
has been teaching Vedanta, Srimad Bhagavad Gita and Sanskrit to Brazilians and
the Western world. He has more than a million of followers on his social media
platforms and thousands enrolled in his organisation called Vishva Vidya.
13. BHARAT BECOMES 4TH LARGEST ECONOMY: Bharat has
overtaken Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy, NITI Aayog CEO BVR
Subrahmanyam said at a press conference of the 10th NITI Aayog Governing Council
Meeting on Viksit Rajya for Viksit Bharat 2047. The April edition of the World
Economic Outlook (WEO) report by the IMF mentioned that the nominal GDP for
fiscal year 2026 is estimated to touch nearly $4,187.017 billion, ANI reported,
citing WEO. The IMF also expects Bharat to be the fastest-growing major economy
in the next two years with expected growth of 6.2 per cent in 2025 and 6.3 per
cent in 2026, higher than global and regional counterparts, according to the WEO
report. -GoTop
14. BHARAT RANKS THIRD IN TRADEMARK FILINGS: Reflecting
strong business confidence, Bharat ranked third globally in trademark filings,
with nearly 5.4 lakh new applications in 2024. According to data shared by
Clarivate, a global provider of transformative intelligence, Bharat witnessed
9.3% growth.
15. WORLD’S FIRST PANCHANGA CLOCK UNVEILED: A Bharatiya
innovator, Shri Harinath has developed the world’s first Panchanga Clock,
combining ancient Sanatan timekeeping with modern technology. The electronic
clock visually displays Tithi, Nakshatra, Rashi, Lagna, and more, making Vedic
calendrical wisdom accessible in daily life. This unique wall-mounted device
maps the dynamic positions of the Sun, Moon, and Earth against the backdrop of
fixed stars - all depicted with analog-style rotating dials and pointers, giving
a realistic planetary view.
16. TRADITIONALLY BUILT STITCHED SHIP INDUCTED INTO
BHARATIYA NAVY: The Bharatiya Navy formally inducted and named a
traditionally built ship as INSV Kaundinya at a ceremonial event held at Naval
Base, Karwar. Minister of Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presided over the
event, marking the culmination of an extraordinary project that celebrates
Bharat’s rich shipbuilding heritage.
17. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: Pravas: Visitors:
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: He truly commands respect who is always cautious not to
insult others. A person who merely boasts but has no virtues cannot command
respect. – Bhagwan Mahavir -GoTop
JAI SHRI RAM
---
INTERVIEW OF SARSANGHCHALAK DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT
The journey of the Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh, started in the year 1925, will attain the milestone of its
centenary on Vijayadashami this year. Today, the Sangh has become the most
unique, widespread and nationwide organisation. After the Akhil Bharatiya
Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), the resolve and call of the Sangh that came out, in
which there was call for evaluation of this journey, introspection and resolve
of rededication to the fundamental thought of the Sangh. How is the functioning
of the Sangh and what are the dimensions? What were the turning points, what
were the incidents, after going through which the Sangh has stood before us in
this form today. What do the opponents of the Sangh think and what does the
Sangh think about its opponents? What is the Sangh today and what will the Sangh
be tomorrow? To explore all these questions and more - including its path ahead,
Organiser editor Prafulla Ketkar, Panchjanya Sampadak Hitesh Shankar, editor of
Marathi Weekly Vivek Ms Ashwini Mayekar and associate editor of Malayalam daily
Janmabhoomi M Balakrishnan had a detailed conversation with RSS Sarsanghchalak
Dr. Mohanrao Bhagwat. (This conversation was in the backdrop of the Akhil
Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha of RSS on March 21-23, 2025 and before the Operation
Sindoor).
Q: As a Swayamsevak and the Sarsanghchalak, how do you view this 100-year
journey of the Sangh?
Dr. Hedgewar initiated this mission with a thoughtful deliberation. The
challenges before the nation were analysed and through experience and
experimentation necessary treatment was decided, which proved to be apt. By
1950, a confidence was instilled about the Sangh way of functioning and Sangh
work can march forward overcoming all the obstacles. In the next phase, the
nationwide expansion of Sangh and the convergence of Swayamsevaks in society
started. In four decades, Sangh Swayamsevaks, by navigating in different walks
of national life, through their character, actions and a spirit of belonging,
earned the trust of society. After 1990s, it was proved that the nation can be
governed on the basis of this thought and qualities. Now, the next stage is to
ensure that following the same thought process and qualities, the entire society
works with sincerity and selflessness, leaving aside all differences, start
working for the nation to take it to the pinnacle of the glory.
Q: What were the major milestones in this 100-year journey?
Initially, the Sangh had nothing. There was no recognition to its ideology or
availability of means of propagation. There was nothing except neglect and
opposition in the society, not even Karyakartas. Had one fed this data into a
computer, it would have predicted a premature death for this entity. But the
Sangh survived and successfully emerged as a resilient force after facing the
challenges of saving Hindus during the partition of the country and the ban on
RSS. By 1950, it was ascertained that the Sangh work will continue and grow and
the Hindu society can be organised with this method. Later, the Sangh work was
expanded even more than before. The society realised the significance of Sangh
strength during the Emergency of 1975 due to the constructive role of Sangh in
restoring democracy. Later, through the participatory movements like Ekatmata
Rath Yatra, Kashmir related awakening, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mukti Andolan and
Vivekananda Sardhashati (150th Anniversary) and the massive expansion of Sewa
works (service activities), the sense of credibility exponentially extended
towards the Sangh ideology and the Sangh across the society.
Q: What were the learnings from the crises of 1948 and 1975?
Both the 1948 and 1975 bans on the RSS were politically motivated. Even those
who imposed them knew very well that the Sangh was not harmful — on the
contrary, was beneficial. However, due to the natural ideological competition in
such a large society, to maintain their political dominance, the people in the
government chose to suppress the Sangh.
During the first ban, everything was at odds; the Sangh was bound to perish.
Despite all adversities, the RSS emerged unblemished and, within 15–20 years,
not only regained its ground but grew even stronger.
Swayamsevaks, who only use to run shakhas and did not have any major societal
role, started participating in various social activities, ensuring their
decisive roles. In a way, the ban of 1948 helped the Sangh in realising own
potential and Swayamsevaks started planning for a leading role in social and
systemic transformation. From the inception it was clear that the Sangh work is
not limited to a one-hour shakha but the Sangh Sanskars, the values imbibed in
the Shakha, should be reflected in the remaining twenty-three hours— in
personal, family, social and professional life. Later during the 1975 emergency,
the society could experience the inherent but extended strength of the Sangh.
When many of the stalwarts were paralysed in fear and despair, an ordinary
swayamsevak would confidently remained assured about the passage of difficult
times and emerging scratchless from the crisis.
During the 1975 Emergency, the RSS prioritised restoring democracy over fighting
against ban on itself. We also stood by those who generally used pessimistic
language against Sangh. In this period, Sangh emerged as an intellectual,
trustworthy pole of the society, especially among the though leaders.
Post-emergency, the Sangh came out with a multifold strength.
Q: Despite numerical and geographical expansion, how did the Sangh mange to
maintain the qualitative dimensions of work and training of Swayamsevaks?
The qualitative and quantitative dimensions are not exclusive to each other, if
you neglect one, the other will diminish over the period of time. That’s why the
Sangh from day one has decided to organise the entire society – that is
quantitative expansion encompassing all. But this ‘organising’ has a specific
meaning and content.
We have devised certain standards for developing a person as per his temperament
and how such individuals should work collectively with the sense of ‘we’ to
function as an organisation. We have to grow without breaking the standards or
compromising with them but, that does not mean excluding people from the
organisation.
There is an incident from the early days of a big organisation. A new karyakarta
with a socialist background joined the organisation. He was a chain-smoker.
First time, he attended the organisational abhyas varg (training camp), where
not even betel nut was allowed. He was uncomfortable the whole day. At night,
the Organising Secretary took him for a walk and suggested to him to visit a
cigarette shop around the corner and have a smoke and also instructed him not to
get any inside the camp. He eventually became a dedicated Karyakarta and quit
smoking. He contributed to the organisation in attaining great heights in that
region.
Accept people as they are—we have this flexibility, at the same time, we also
have the art of affection to transform him as per the need. We have such a
courage and strength. This is the reason we’ve grown while sustaining quality.
We want quality in the organisation but we also keep in mind that we have to
qualitatively transform the entire society.
Q: The Sangh has been functioning as per the foundational thoughts of Dr
Hedgewar and Shri Guruji. If change is required, how is it approached?
The original thoughts of Dr Hedgewar, Sri Guruji, or Balasaheb are not distinct
from the eternal (Sanatan) tradition and culture. The Sangh method of
functioning has been firmed and working after the deep contemplation and the
experiences based on the actual experimentations of the Karyakartas. From the
beginning, there is no scope for scriptural, personality driven or blind
imitation. We are principle-centered. We may take inspiration and follow the
direction given by great personalities, but in every Desh-Kaal-Paristhiti (time
and situation), we must carve our own path. This calls for constant discernment
between what is eternal (nitya) and what is situational (anitya).
What is nitya in the Sangh? Balasaheb once said, "Hindustan is a Hindu Rashtra’.
Apart from this, everything else in the Sangh is transient. The entire Hindu
society is the accountable, custodian of this nation. The nature and sanskriti
of this country is Hindu. Therefore, this is a Hindu Rashtra.
Everything is to be done while maintaining this core. Hence, the Sangh
Swayamsevak while taking the oath explicitly states about: “the all-round
development of the Hindu Rashtra while protecting the sacred Hindu Dharma, Hindu
Sanskriti and Hindu society”. The definition of "Hindu" is also comprehensive —
there is enough scope in it to maintain the fundamental framework and direction
and still make necessary changes as per the need of time and situation. The
Sangh pledge also says: “I am an organic element of the Sangh”, organic element
means who shapes the Sangh and inalienable part of the Sangh.
Therefore, there is a complete freedom to express the diverse and conflicting
opinions during the discussion. Once a decision is reached by building
consensus, everyone keeps aside the individual opinion by merging it in the
collective decision. The decisions taken are accepted as theirs by everyone.
Hence, everyone has a freedom to do work and still maintain the direction with
all others. The eternal is preserved; the transient evolves with time, space,
and context.
Q: Outsiders, who perceive Sangh without direct experience, often see it
structurally but how does the internal process of introspection and discussion
work?
There’s a well-established system where the objective and essence is constant.
While the delivery may change. Structures may change, but the core essence of
that structure remains the same. Along with the situation, mindset is equally
important.
Therefore, our training programmes take into account the national situation and
challenges etc. Accordingly, how should swayamsevaks prepare themselves, which
qualities constitute the organisation and what should be done to inculcate
qualities to address those challenges is also thought about.
We daily remind ourselves the collective resolve in the form of Prarthana, the
prayer, and individual resolve, in the form of Pratigya, the pledge. A
swayamsevak means the one who begins with the self. The meaning of being ‘Ghatak
– or organic element’ of the Sangh, means me and Sangh are not separate but
mirror each other qualitatively, as with the relationship between the drops and
the ocean - just as each drop constitutes the entire ocean and ocean consists of
each drop. This symbiotic relationship between the individual and collective
whole has been intact in Sangh since its inception.
Introspection is a continuous process for a swayamsevak. When success comes, it
is collective effort of the Sangh; in case of failure, personal shortcomings are
evaluated. This spirit is central to the training of swayamsevaks.
Q: Today society and lifestyle have drastically changed. Is the model of
daily shakha still relevant, or are there any alternatives?
While the programmes in a shakha may have alternatives, the essence of a shakha
is—coming together, cultivating collective virtues, and reigniting the resolve
on a daily basis that we are working for the paramvaibhav (ultimate glory) of
Bharat Mata (our motherland) —this is the root — meeting, and cooperating with
each other is fundamental. This is the basis, it is irreplaceable.
A common person remains common until he is connected with the collective whole.
Then even ordinary person also do extraordinary work and unimaginable
sacrifices. For achieving this, what needs is a conducive environment and
condition to be part of that environment. Ideals and affinity are the only
facilitators of change, nothing else. All over the world, there exist a model
for transformation, somebody becomes agent of self-transformation which inspires
others to emulate. Such model or ideal cannot be distant, it has to be close by
and with the sense of belongingness. There are many great personalities, we know
them and have respect and reverence for them but individually we generally
follow the people around us. We generally do as per the environment provided by
our peer group. A more competent friend is easier to emulate, this has been the
tested method of transformation. Until this is true, Shakha is irreplaceable as
it provides environment for inculcating individual and collective virtues. While
the time and attire of shakha may change (and that’s already allowed), there is
no alternative to Shakha. Shakha is never irrelevant. Today, people from
advanced countries are coming and studying our shakha model, asking about it.
Every ten years we contemplate whether there is any other alternative. I have
been present in such contemplations for 6-7 times, but till date, no viable
alternative has yet emerged. ...contd.part2. -GoTop
SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN samvadnewsletter@gmail.com http://shrivishwaniketan.
Labels: 1 June 2025
Subscribe to Posts [Atom]