Hinduism is a Living Tradition, Not a Narrow Concept: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat in Thiruvananthapuram
Speaking at a prominent public lecture in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that the foundational ideology of the movement is rooted in the rich civilisational ethos of Hinduism. Addressing an invited gathering as part of the organization’s centenary celebrations, Bhagwat clarified that Hinduism is neither a recent invention nor a restrictive construct. Instead, he framed it as an expansive, inclusive way of life deeply embedded in the historical and cultural identity of the Indian subcontinent.
Core Principles of the Address
The RSS chief focused on the historical evolution of the organization and the legal, philosophical definitions of Hindu identity:
- The Evolution of the Movement: Bhagwat noted that the RSS was founded out of a structural conclusion to rejuvenate society. A deliberate, ground-level methodology was devised to organize individuals and channel collective energy toward nation-building.
- A Cultural and Legal Tradition: He explicitly rejected narrow interpretations of the ideology. Reaffirming its universal appeal, Bhagwat pointed out that even the Supreme Court of India has legally recognized and described Hinduism as a “living tradition of Bharat,” rather than a rigid, dogmatic religion.
- The Mission of Creating “Good Citizens”: The ultimate inquiry driving the organizational philosophy, according to Bhagwat, revolves around character building. He posed a fundamental question to the audience: “The question then is how to prepare an individual to be a good Hindu…” He implied that the answer lies in instilling virtues of selflessness, community service, and deep respect for ancestral values.
Part of the RSS Centenary Outreach
The address in Thiruvananthapuram marks the beginning of Mohan Bhagwat’s intensive three-day tour of Kerala:
The Event Matrix: The public gathering at the Udaya Palace Convention Centre is part of a deliberate nationwide outreach program aimed at clarifying the Sangh’s mission during its milestone centenary year. Following the capital session, Bhagwat is scheduled to travel north to address a similar cross-section of cultural and social leaders in Thrissur, followed by a visit to Amritapuri to meet spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi.
