Ranchi: Senior pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and member of its Akhil Bharatiya Karyakarini, V Bhagayya, on Friday (July 24) stated that the organisation’s core objective is to foster unity, social harmony and a strong sense of national consciousness in society.
He was addressing a large gathering of youth during a ‘Yuva Samvad’ programme organised by the Ranchi Mahanagar (Vikramaditya Nagar) unit at the auditorium of Sarala Birla University. The event saw enthusiastic participation from over one hundred attendees, including students, teachers, advocates, doctors, scientists, entrepreneurs, and businesspeople from Tatisilwai and surrounding areas.
In his address, Bhagayya urged the youth to go beyond personal ambitions and career growth, and actively contribute towards nation-building. “Young people should not limit themselves to individual success. They must also recognise their responsibilities towards the nation and work with dedication for its progress,” he said.
Highlighting the current socio-political scenario, he noted that the country faces multiple ideological challenges and misconceptions that could affect its unity and integrity. In such times, he emphasised, it is crucial for the youth to remain vigilant, aware and committed to national interest. He called upon them to play an active role in strengthening societal cohesion and national consciousness.
Bhagayya also elaborated on the ongoing outreach initiatives being conducted across the country as part of the RSS centenary year. He explained the organisation’s guiding philosophy and its efforts to connect with people from all sections of society through various programmes and campaigns.
Referring to the life and struggles of RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, he said that despite facing hardships from an early age, Hedgewar chose the path of selfless service to the nation. He lost his parents in childhood and grew up under difficult circumstances, yet remained committed to nationalist ideals.
Bhagayya recounted that Hedgewar was expelled from school in Class IX for participating in the Vande Mataram movement. After completing his MBBS degree with distinction from Kolkata, he declined a lucrative government post in Burma and dedicated his entire life to India’s freedom struggle and nation-building efforts.
He further explained that Hedgewar deeply analysed the reasons behind foreign domination in India by powers such as the Mughals and the British. According to him, the lack of unity, weakening of national identity and internal social divisions were major contributing factors. To address these issues and rebuild a strong, cohesive society, the RSS was founded in 1925.
Emphasising India’s diversity, Bhagayya said that the country’s varied languages, food habits, attire and religious practices reflect its rich cultural heritage. However, he underlined that the fundamental identity binding all Indians is their shared belonging to the nation. “Despite our diversity, we are united as children of Bharat Mata. This sense of unity is our greatest strength,” he said.
He also pointed out that during colonial rule, deliberate attempts were made to divide society along the lines of caste, region and language. He stressed the need to rise above such divisions and reinforce the values of unity, harmony and organisation in society.
Citing the ideals of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, Bhagayya said that his vision extended beyond political independence to the creation of an equitable society. He envisioned a nation where every individual is treated with dignity, enjoys economic self-reliance and is free from exploitation of any kind.
The programme concluded with the rendition of the national song and the national anthem. Several RSS functionaries, including Vikramaditya Nagar Sanghchalak Shankar Sahu and Sah-Sanghchalak Brajesh, along with other senior Karyakartsa and office bearers, were present on the occasion.
