The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): In a thought-provoking speech at the 101st anniversary event of Lokmanya Seva Sangh, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat stressed the importance of genuine change in people’s demeanour, asserting that it should stem from the heart and conscience rather than being prompted by police presence or the fear of Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids.
Bhagwat emphasized that societal transformation should be driven by the mind and intellect, with individuals accepting change because they believe in it, not because others are doing it. He urged organizations to take up various subjects to ensure social transformation, stating that it is the responsibility of every institution to introduce such reforms in society.
The RSS chief also highlighted the significance of safety and self-reliance in a country’s progress. He noted that an unsafe country cannot progress, and that progress takes place during periods of safety. Bhagwat called for increased self-reliance to make the country safer, emphasizing that a nation becomes more secure when its people follow basic rules and demonstrate civic sense.
Bhagwat acknowledged that running a country is a huge responsibility and not a contract that can be given to anyone. He revealed that the RSS is considering presenting its workers as examples of civic sense to society, underscoring the importance of individual responsibility in nation-building.
Drawing parallels to the era of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bhagwat noted that institutions in society worked on two fronts: societal reforms and the struggle for Independence. He urged contemporary institutions to undertake similar works to bring about a change in people’s demeanour, emphasizing that a nation’s rise and fall are linked with society’s thought process and values.
Bhagwat expressed concerns about the pervasiveness of an extremely materialistic lifestyle in society, which he believes is affecting familial bonds. He observed that families with higher education and income are often more disjointed compared to those earning less, and called for better bonding within families and society as a whole.
The RSS chief also lamented that the new generation is not familiar with historical figures like Shivaji Maharaj and Maharana Pratap, underscoring the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage.
Bhagwat’s speech serves as a reminder that genuine change in society must come from within, driven by a sense of conscience and responsibility, rather than being forced by external factors such as the fear of law enforcement agencies. His words emphasize the crucial role that individuals and institutions play in shaping a nation’s progress and the importance of fostering a society built on strong values, civic sense, and cultural awareness.
