Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat on Friday (June 27) reiterated that the very foundation of the Sangh is built upon the spirit of “apnapan,” a deep sense of belongingness and emotional affinity. If there is one word that can define the RSS, Dr Bhagwat said, it is this very “apnapan”.
Speaking at the release of the biography of late Ayurvedacharya Vaidya P.Y. Khadiwale in Pune, Dr Bhagwat reflected on the philosophical and societal ethos that the Sangh represents and promotes. “The purpose of the RSS is to unite the Hindu society with the thread of affection and mutual belonging, and in turn, Hindu society bears the responsibility to bind the entire world with the same sentiment,” he said.
Drawing a sharp distinction between instinct and intellect, Dr Bhagwat noted, “Compared to animals, human beings are blessed with intellect. But this intellect is a double-edged sword, when rightly used, it uplifts humanity; when misused, it leads to ruin.” The only safeguard, he emphasised, is the cultivation of a shared emotional bond, apnapan, that ensures we do not harm others.
Highlighting how the Indian civilisational ethos has long nurtured this value, Dr Bhagwat commented, “Today, the term ‘giving back’ has become fashionable in English-speaking cultures. But this idea is embedded deeply in Indian tradition. We have always believed in reciprocating affection with affection, compassion with compassion.”
Explaining the role of the RSS in shaping society, the Sarsanghchalak stated that the RSS’s efforts for Hindus are not merely administrative but emotional. “We unite Hindus to reinforce the growing intimacy among them, because the world fundamentally runs on emotional unity, not merely on materialistic agreements. When hearts come together, true unity is achieved.”
He underlined that recognising the common thread that ties all Hindus together, irrespective of region, language or caste, is central to the Sangh’s mission. “It is not about creating uniformity, but about nurturing a shared spirit that binds the diverse Hindu society,” he said.
As the RSS prepares to mark a historic milestone of 100 years, Dr Bhagwat announced that the centenary celebrations will begin from August 26, starting with a three-day lecture series in Delhi, where he will outline the journey, ideals, and vision of the RSS. This will be followed by similar public outreach events in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, and hundreds of Hindu unity conferences and community meetings across the nation.
The Vijayadashami function, traditionally the most significant annual event of the RSS, will be observed this year on October 2, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The Sangh plans to engage communities at the grassroots level, rekindling the spirit of service (seva), belonging, and national pride.
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