Expectations from the Sangh have increased in society. Today, the world lacks a model that can ensure lasting peace and happiness for society. Therefore, it looks toward Bharat with hope,” said Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat while addressing an event organised by the RSS Goraksh Prant at Baba Gambhirnath Auditorium on February 15, 2026.
He noted that Western thought had significantly influenced Bharat in the past, attempting to fragment the Indian knowledge tradition and impose its own incomplete framework. “Only a thought process rooted in the Bharatiya knowledge tradition can resolve the doubts and challenges facing society. Hence, in the centenary year, we have resolved to reach out to society at large,” he added.
Dr Bhagwat emphasised that the Sangh is an autonomous, independent and self-reliant organisation dedicated not to itself but to the nation. “If the entire society becomes healthy and capable of fulfilling its responsibilities, the need for the Sangh will cease,” he remarked. He clarified that the Sangh is not a reaction to any particular circumstance, nor does it oppose or compete with anyone. “It does not aspire for influence, power or popularity; it works solely in the interest of society,” he said.
“I have come to fulfil, not to destroy,” he remarked, “Sangh has come to fulfil, not to destroy. We are not here to eliminate anyone.”
Dr Bhagwat elaborated on four major streams of thought that guided Bharat’s freedom struggle:
The Revolutionary Stream: The belief that the British must be defeated through armed struggle, a stream that continued up to Subhas Chandra Bose.
The Political Awakening Stream: The view that society lacked political consciousness, and that political awakening was essential for freedom.
The Modern Knowledge and Social Reform Stream: Advocating equality with the British through modern education, science and social reform. Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy worked in this direction, though their reach remained limited.
The Cultural-Rooted Stream: The belief that Bharat strayed because it distanced itself from its civilisational roots. Leaders such as Swami Vivekananda and Swami Dayananda Saraswati revived this stream by reconnecting society with its foundational values.
He noted that Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar had interacted with all four streams. Dr Hedgewar sought to ensure that while Bharat would certainly attain independence, it would never lose it again. “For that, we must correct our weaknesses and organise society beyond selfish interests,” he explained.
On Vijayadashami in 1925, Dr Hedgewar initiated the Sangh’s work. Fourteen years later, the organisation’s methodology became clearer under the name Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, an organisation driven by affection and sanskar, guided by Sanatan thought, and dedicated to social reorganisation. “Nations rise or fall on the strength of society. If society is awakened, the nation will function properly,” he asserted.
Clarifying why the Sangh speaks of Hindu society, Dr Bhagwat stated that every person living in this land is Hindu in a civilisational sense. “The Hindu outlook believes that our path is correct, and yours is also correct. There may be different sects and traditions based on individual inclinations, but the goal is one,” he said.
He explained that the word ‘Hindu’ is not merely a noun but, grammatically, an adjective — denoting qualities that unite all and lead towards Moksha. “Hindu Dharma embodies this spirit. Since the name ‘Hindu’ has become synonymous with Bharat, awakening Sanatan consciousness through this identity is essential. Those who have forgotten that they are Hindu must be reminded,” he added.
Dr Bhagwat underlined that society must function on tolerance and harmony. Acting not for selfish gain but for the welfare of others is the essence of Bharatiya culture. “Our nation is Dharma-prana, Dharma is part of our conduct,” he said. Sanskars developed over generations shape culture, and culture forms the foundation of the nation.
Despite diversity, Bharat remains united because of the shared reverence for Bharat Mata as a civilisational mother force, he said.
He concluded by stating that organising the entire society remains the Sangh’s core mission. In the centenary year, the Sangh has set the goal of Panch Parivartan (Five Transformations): Social harmony, Civic duty, Environmental protection, Family awareness, Swa. “These five transformations will build a strong and organised society,” he said.
