Bharat’s Rise Must Not Mirror High-Handedness of Powerful Nations, Says Mohan Bhagwat

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasizes that while India must rebuild its internal strength to ensure national security, it should remain committed to a path of righteousness rather than imperialist dominance.

Addressing the valedictory session of the Karyakarta Vikash Varg in Nagpur, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat underscored the necessity for India to cultivate both economic and military might. During the event, which featured the significant presence of Aditya Birla Group Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, Bhagwat reflected on the historical lessons of the last millennium. He noted that India’s past experience with foreign rule was not due to an inherent inferiority of the people, but rather a decline in societal preparedness and a failure to maintain collective strength.

A Vision for Global Responsibility

Discussing the current geopolitical climate, the RSS chief drew a sharp distinction between India’s future aspirations and the behavior of certain dominant global players. "They grab another country, bomb nations, or manipulate global resources at will," Bhagwat remarked while discussing the actions of some modern powerful nations. He emphasized that the perception of Bharat on the world stage should be markedly different; even as the country grows into a formidable power, it must prioritize carrying the rest of the world along rather than engaging in the arbitrary exercise of authority.

The Intersection of Strength and Virtue

Bhagwat argued that India possesses a unique cultural legacy capable of balancing individual freedoms with societal well-being. However, he warned that internal security remains a pressing concern, particularly given the "wickedness of evil forces" currently active along the nation's borders. To combat these threats, he asserted that India must become so resilient that it remains unconquerable, even if multiple hostile powers were to coordinate against it.

The RSS chief further clarified that the pursuit of strength is not an end in itself but must be rooted in dharma, or righteousness. He cautioned that brute power, when stripped of moral virtues, inevitably leads to violence and instability. Consequently, he advocated for a model of development that serves to protect the virtuous and deter the wicked, ensuring that India’s influence is used to promote peace and a healthy, empowered life for all, rather than mere domination of global trade.

Rebuilding National Preparedness

The address also served as a call to action for Hindu society, which Bhagwat described as becoming increasingly organized and awakened. He posited that the responsibility for ensuring Bharat’s stability lies with its citizens. By integrating traditional scientific knowledge with modern preparedness, he believes the nation can move toward a future where it is not dependent on others for its security. Ultimately, Bhagwat’s message was clear: Bharat’s emergence as a global leader must be defined by its ability to harmonize progress with the values of creation, ensuring that its ascent brings stability rather than disruption to the global order.