Prerna Vimarsh 2023: “Hindutva is Bharat’s identity and Bharat will lead the world in future,” says RSS’ Ram Lal

Greater Noida: The three-day Prerana Vimarsh 2023 kicked off with fervour on December 15, featuring insightful discussions on Bharat’s identity, culture, and the profound impact of Hindutva. Ram Lal Ji, the Akhil Bharatiya Sampark Pramukh of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), delivered a keynote address, emphasising the significance of understanding Bharat through the lens of ‘Swa’ and Dharma.

In his keynote address, Ram Lal Ji underscored that Hindutva symbolises Bharat’s unity, culture, and religion. He urged the audience to delve into the study of Bharat rather than merely observing it, highlighting the interconnectedness of ‘Swa’ and Dharma in comprehending the essence of this great nation. Emphasising Bharat’s inclusive ethos, he expressed that Hindutva is about the welfare of all, reflecting the nation’s commitment to global happiness and well-being. Citing Swami Vivekananda, he reiterated Bharat’s tradition of not just tolerating but embracing and respecting diversity.

He also underscored the significance of collaboration and contribution from Maatrushakti in the nation-building process. Stressing the need for a rejuvenated dialogue on women’s role in society, he highlighted the importance of revitalising discussions surrounding women’s contributions.

He emphasised the imperative of shifting the mindset of our intellectuals from Eurocentrism to a Bharat-centric perspective. The Eurocentric mindset, he argued, has resulted in the denationalisation, desocialization, and de-Hinduization of Bharatiyas, posing a grave concern. Quoting the esteemed RSS stalwart, Dattopant Thengadi, he stressed that to truly comprehend Bharat, one must delve into the pages of Bharat itself. Reading about the world is insufficient; understanding Bharat requires a direct engagement with its unique narrative and ethos.

The visionary leader predicted a future where Bharat would lead the world, urging a correct understanding of Bharat’s history based on ‘Swa.’ Despite acknowledging Bharat’s potential global leadership, he lamented negative discussions about the nation and its progress, calling for responsible dialogue and dissemination of accurate information, he further added.

Throughout his address, Ram Lal Ji underscored the critical importance of precise language usage. He elucidated that in Bharat, ‘dharma’ translates to ‘kartavya’, not merely ‘religion.’ Emphasising the core principle of ‘sabka bhala karna hi humara dharma hai’ he highlighted a shift in perspective from religious connotations to a broader sense of responsibility.

Ram Lal Ji made a crucial distinction between ‘Panthnirpeksha’ and ‘Dharmanirpeksha’, clarifying that the term ‘secular’ in the constitution implies ‘Panthnirpeksha’ and not ‘Dharmanirpeksha.’ Similarly, he elucidated that ‘Hindutva’ signifies ‘Vishwa Kalyan’—envisioning happiness for everyone.

To truly comprehend these terms in their contextual depth, Sri Ram Lal Ji asserted the necessity of understanding Bharat and its inherent values. He proposed establishing a robust intellectual foundation rooted in Bharatiya thought across various domains. Furthermore, he stressed the imperative of nurturing individuals who embody these values in their behaviour, thereby contributing to the holistic development of society.

Keynote speakers, including BJP leader Manoj Tiwari, stressed the importance of understanding ‘Swa’ and promoting responsible discourse. The event encompassed a literature festival, an exhibition showcasing ‘Swa’ Bharat’s diverse heritage, and the release of a special edition of Prerana Vichar Patrika titled ‘Swa Bharat Ka Atmabodh.’

Manoj Tiwari, who was the chief guest, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the need to understand and promote ‘Swa’ in the current socio-political landscape. He criticised individuals who indulge in fashionable criticism of the nation, attributing it to a lack of self-awareness. Social media, he suggested, could play a pivotal role in fostering national self-awareness, and incorporating ‘Swa’-based education in institutions would contribute to a broader awakening of Bharatiya identity.

Guest of honour Narendra Bhadauria, a journalist, lauded Bharat’s respect for its ancient and Sanatan culture, citing tolerance and unity in diversity as foundational principles. He expressed gratitude to the dedicated individuals associated with RSS, highlighting their efforts in restoring ‘Swa’ without concern for personal comforts.

The programme, inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by esteemed guests, featured the unveiling of a literature festival and an exhibition. Dignitaries from various departments, media educators, and students from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and other states graced the occasion. Notable figures present included Ms. Vandana Pandey, the Dean of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at Gautam Buddha University, Preeti Dadu, the President of Prerana Research Institute Foundation; and Mayank Agrawal, the former Chief Executive Officer of Doordarshan.

The exhibition, a highlight of the event, showcased the historical, cultural, social, technological, women’s empowerment, and journalistic heritage of Bharat. Participating publishing houses, including Jagriti Publication, Kitab Ghar, Suruchi Publication, Madhav Publication, Prabhat Publication, Prerana Vichar Patrika, Prerana Prakashan, Din Dayal Swadeshi Kendra, and Lokhit Prakashan, added to the diverse range of perspectives on display.

As a significant conclusion to the programme, a special edition of Prerana Vichar Patrika, titled ‘Swa Bharat Ka Atmabodh,’ was released, focusing on fostering self-awareness of ‘Swa’ Bharat. The literary festival and exhibition aimed to set the direction for a powerful future Bharat, resonating with the theme of the Prerana Vimarsh 2023.

The inaugural session, conducted by Neena Singh and Priyanka Singh, commenced with Vedic chants, infusing the event with a sense of spirituality and tradition. The presence of key figures like Kripashankar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand Prachar Pramukh, Padam Singh, Western Uttar Pradesh Prachar Pramukh, and other distinguished personalities added further prestige to the ceremony.

The Prerana Vimarsh 2023 successfully initiated a dialogue on Bharat’s identity, emphasising the role of ‘Swa’ and Dharma. The event’s literary festival and exhibition provide a platform for diverse perspectives, fostering a sense of national self-awareness and setting the stage for Bharat’s envisioned leadership on the global stage.