RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that unity and diversity are deeply rooted in India’s identity, stressing that differences between people should be celebrated while the sense of oneness must remain intact.
Speaking at the Universal Oneness Celebration at Madison Square Garden in New York, Bhagwat drew a comparison between the United States and India, saying that “pluralism” is often associated with America, while “unity in diversity” defines Bharat.
“For Bharat, this unity and this diversity, both are in their DNA,” Bhagwat said while addressing the gathering.
The event brought together members of the Indian-American community, interfaith leaders, students and organisations from across the United States. More than 6,000 people attended the programme, according to reports.
‘Diversity Has To Be Celebrated’
Bhagwat said diversity should not be viewed as something that divides society. Instead, he argued that differences should be accepted and respected while people recognise the deeper bond that connects them.
“Diversity has to be celebrated, has to be respected, has to be accepted,” he said, adding that people must also keep alive the “feeling of oneness”.
The RSS chief said people may have different languages, religions, lifestyles and material needs, but these differences do not remove their shared humanity.
He used the example of human empathy to explain his point, saying a person would find it difficult to eat peacefully while watching another human being remain hungry.
According to Bhagwat, this instinct comes from the basic human feeling that connects people despite their differences.
Bhagwat Invokes Swami Vivekananda
Bhagwat also referred to the teachings of Swami Vivekananda while speaking about India’s role in the world.
He said nations are not merely geographical entities and have a larger responsibility. Citing Vivekananda’s message that every nation has a mission and destiny, Bhagwat said India’s role was to demonstrate the idea of unity in diversity to the world.
“What is the destiny given to Bharat? Bharat is there to realise and from time to time make the world realise this unity in diversity,” he said.
He added that India’s diversity gives greater meaning to its underlying unity.
Message To Indian Diaspora
Bhagwat also addressed the Indian diaspora in the United States and spoke about their responsibilities towards the country where they live.
He urged Indians abroad to remain committed to their “karmabhoomi”, or land of action, while continuing to uphold the values associated with Bharat.
He also spoke about the importance of giving back to society, saying that material success should not be the only measure of a meaningful life.
The New York event featured leaders from different faiths and communities, with speakers emphasising unity, compassion, dialogue and mutual respect.
Bhagwat’s remarks came against the backdrop of a wider discussion on India’s cultural diversity and its place in the world. His central message was that differences are natural, but they do not have to prevent people from recognising their common humanity.
