Emphasising the importance of spreading Vedic knowledge, RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat called for revitalising the ancient scriptures in contemporary contexts to maintain the spiritual fabric of society. “To keep the faith alive in society today, up-to-date knowledge of the Vedas should be conveyed to the common people,” Dr Bhagwat stated at a function held to honour Veda Sevaks at Balgandharva Rangmandir on September 4.
The event was jointly organised by the Shree Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Nyas and the Shree Sadguru Group, Pune, to celebrate the Veda Sevaks, who were felicitated for their rigorous 16-month Anushthan (ritual) in Ayodhya. This extensive chanting of all four Vedas, conducted between November 2022 and February 2024, involved 240 Purohits and volunteers from various parts of Maharashtra, completing 36 phases of continuous prayer and worship.
Dr Bhagwat underscored the profound wisdom embedded in the Vedas, describing them not merely as ancient texts but as the foundation of India’s spiritual heritage that offers deep insights into life. “There is a need to carry forward this knowledge, in an up-to-date form, to the newer generation who can take it to the world with the message of global peace,” he emphasised.
Warning Against Global Threats and Cultural Erosion
Addressing recent global events, Dr Bhagwat expressed concern over the rising apathy and disharmony worldwide. He warned that “evil forces across the world have united to destabilise peace,” citing examples such as the “cultural degradation” in America, Poland, and the Arab world, including the Arab Spring, and forewarned that similar disruptions could reach Bharat soon. “We have the ability to tackle these evil forces because we have knowledge in the form of our scriptures, such as the Vedas,” he said, urging that this knowledge be presented in a way that resonates with contemporary society.
He stressed the importance of preserving the family value system, which he argued remains strong in India due to the nation’s ancient traditions. “When the family system all over the world is being destroyed, it’s still strong in India since ancient times because of the prevailing value system of family in the country,” he noted, encouraging the Veda Sevaks to preach these values in their practices.
Call for Inclusivity and Ending Discrimination
Dr. Bhagwat also called for eliminating discrimination, particularly the practice of untouchability. “When there is no place for untouchability in the scriptures, why should there be this unwholesome discrimination?” he questioned, stressing the need for a more inclusive society.
Vedic Knowledge and the Future of Ram Mandir
The event also featured notable figures such as Champat Rai, Vice President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and General Secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust; Swami Govindadev Giri Ji Maharaj, Treasurer of the Trust; Dr. Hanumant Gaikwad of Bharat Vikas Group, Pune; Abhijeet Pawar, Chairman of Sakal Media Group; and Yashwant Kulkarni, Founder Chairman of Sadguru Group.
Champat Rai provided updates on the progress of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, detailing future plans that include the construction of 18 temples within the complex, dedicated to deities such as Seshnaga, contemporary Rishis like Valmiki, Vasishtha, Vishwamitra, Agastya, and tribal figures like Nishadraj and Shabari. He also highlighted environmentally sustainable measures, including zero discharge systems, designed to accommodate the 25,000 pilgrims expected to visit the temple daily.
Call for Dedication to Society and Country
Swami Govindadev Giri Ji Maharaj, in his address, extolled the virtues of penance and described the “Pasayadan” by Sant Dnyaneshwar as the “manifesto of Ram Rajya.” He spoke about the threats posed by forces intent on destroying the country and called on every individual to dedicate a portion of their lives to the service of society and the nation. “To suppress these forces, we must create a system where everyone should give some years of their life for society and the country,” he urged.
