Sarkaryavah of the RSS, Dattatreya Hosabale
At the World Hindu Congress in Bangkok, Sarkaryavah of the RSS, Dattatreya Hosabale, emphasised unity over homogenisation, thereby rejecting Western concepts. He defended the inclusive nature of Hinduism, citing examples of minorities in India. Hosabale expressed deep sentiments about the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, highlighting its significance. The objective of the World Hindu Congress is to strengthen global Hindu potential through collaboration and awareness.
In a conversation with a media house on the sidelines of the World Hindu Congress in Bangkok, Dattatreya Hosabale, the Sarkaryavah of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), spoke fervently about the organisation’s vision of unity for Hindus, dismissing the concept of homogenization as a Western imposition. The Congress, aimed at strengthening the potential of Hindus worldwide, has drawn attention to the resurgence of Hindutva and the recent developments surrounding the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Hosabale vehemently expressed that the “majority and minority debate is useless,” asserting that the focus should be on fostering unity rather than conforming to a homogenised identity. He pointed out examples of religious minorities in India, such as Parsis and Tibetans, highlighting that their minuscule numbers did not deter them from practising their faith without facing significant problems. Hosabale argued that the richness of Bharat lies in its diversity and that the RSS’s objective is to promote unity while preserving this diversity.
“RSS wants unity, not homogenization. Homogenization is a Western concept. They want to bring about uniformity. Look at the kind of diversity in Bharat. Bharat has never demolished diversity. It has always celebrated it,” Hosabale stated emphatically.
Addressing criticism regarding the RSS’ vision of unity, he emphasised the inclusive nature of Hinduism, citing examples of Hindus as minorities in various countries who have not sought special rights. Hosabale underscored that the intent is to unite Hindus worldwide without imposing a standardised identity, celebrating the diversity inherent in Hindu culture.
When questioned about the inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Hosabale expressed deep sentiments, stating that it goes beyond feelings to the core of Hindu identity. “This is not about the feeling; it is about ‘Shraddha,’ our relation to ‘sanskriti.’ It is about our personality, our ‘Asmita,’ our self-respect, our identity. What can I say about it? It is like asking what do you feel about your mother?” he remarked, highlighting the emotional and cultural significance of the event.
Discussing the purpose of organising the World Hindu Congress, Hosabale elucidated that it aims to strengthen the potential of Hindus globally. He emphasised the need for collaboration and connection among well-meaning individuals who may not have actively engaged with the cause. The Congress provides a platform to inspire and connect individuals with a shared commitment to Hindu values. Hosabale stressed the importance of organising and collaborating, providing necessary tools to raise awareness and foster the realisation that Hindus are not alone in their beliefs.
“Our potential as Hindus has to be strengthened. Such inspiration comes from such a Congress. Sajjanshakti, well-meaning people, may not have come and attached themselves to the cause, but the idea is to connect them and collaborate with them. We have to organise and collaborate with them. We are providing them with the necessary tools. There should be awareness about it, realisation that others are also with me. I am not alone,” Hosabale concluded.
As the World Hindu Congress unfolds in Bangkok, it serves as a platform for Hindus worldwide to come together, celebrate their diverse cultural heritage, and forge unity without compromising on the richness of their individual identities. The RSS’s emphasis on unity over homogenization reflects a commitment to preserving the cultural mosaic of Hinduism in the face of global challenges and opportunities.
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