Mohan Bhagwat, the head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), addressed a diverse audience at the "One World, One Humanity" event in New York on Saturday, August 29, 2026, emphasizing that a Hindu Rashtra does not exclude Muslims. Speaking to faith leaders and representatives from various religious communities, Bhagwat reiterated a stance he previously articulated in 2018 during a lecture in New Delhi. During that event, he had similarly responded to questions from Muslim attendees regarding the RSS’s vision of a Hindu Rashtra, stating that such an idea could not exist without Muslims and that Hindutva represented universal brotherhood. At the New York event, Bhagwat directly tackled the issue raised by Muslim participants during his earlier lectures. They had questioned whether the RSS’s concept of a Hindu Rashtra implied the exclusion of Muslims from India. Bhagwat responded by asserting that such a belief would disqualify someone from being considered a true Hindu. “If any Hindu thinks there should be no Muslims in Bharat, he may not be a Hindu,” he stated. This declaration aligns with his previous comments, reinforcing the notion that Hindutva embraces inclusivity rather than exclusivity. Bhagwat further elaborated on the philosophical underpinnings of Hindutva, drawing upon India’s historical and cultural traditions. He highlighted how India has long served as a refuge for people of all faiths, despite centuries of foreign invasions and the loss of many cultural elements. “Our society and our country became targets of foreign invasions, and many things were lost. But that tradition still exists. It teaches ordinary people the same thing: one world, one humanity,” he remarked. This emphasis on shared humanity underscores the RSS’s evolving perspective, particularly in light of contemporary societal dynamics. In addition to historical references, Bhagwat invoked modern examples to illustrate the RSS’s commitment to interfaith harmony. He mentioned the role of RSS volunteers during a tragic aviation accident in Dadri, Haryana, where two planes from Muslim-majority nations collided. Despite the loss of all passengers, RSS volunteers promptly provided aid, arranged funerals, and assisted families in identifying the deceased. “We don’t have the thought that they are Muslims,” Bhagwat said, highlighting the organization’s approach to service that transcends religious boundaries. Bhagwat also emphasized the importance of dialogue and selfless service as tools for fostering unity. He referenced the teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a revered spiritual figure who practiced multiple religious traditions, including Islam and Christianity. Quoting Paramahamsa, Bhagwat stated, “As many ways, as many thoughts. All lead to one way.” This metaphor underscored his message that while religious practices may differ, the pursuit of truth and divine understanding unites all seekers. Furthermore, Bhagwat discussed the RSS’s ongoing engagement with minority communities, noting that the organization has intensified efforts to build bridges with Muslims and Christians since 2018. He pointed to the organization’s extensive network of service projects, estimating that approximately 1.3 lakh (130,000) initiatives are carried out by RSS volunteers with the support of local societies. These efforts, he argued, reflect the RSS’s broader mission of promoting social cohesion through collective action and mutual respect. Bhagwat concluded by addressing the challenges posed by political polarization, suggesting that meaningful change requires grassroots initiatives grounded in selfless service, dialogue, and unity. “Things cannot be achieved through politics alone. Sorry to say, but the fact is that politics has now become a game of self-interest,” he said. Instead, he advocated for a return to communal values that prioritize the common good over individual gain. The event drew attention from both supporters and critics, with some civil rights organizations expressing concerns over the RSS’s presence in New York. Notably, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly opposed the planned gathering, though he acknowledged the city’s limited authority over private events. Meanwhile, advocacy groups urged vigilance, reminding officials of their duties to uphold democratic principles. As Bhagwat prepares for his next appearance at Madison Square Garden, the discourse surrounding the RSS’s role in interfaith dialogue continues to evolve.
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