‘Unity in diversity is in India’s DNA': RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in New York

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat recently emphasized that unity and diversity are inherent to the Indian DNA during a speech at the 'Universal Oneness Celebration' in New York City. He drew parallels between the concept of pluralism in America and unity in diversity in India. Bhagwat elaborated on the concept of 'oneness', explaining that despite differences in lifestyle and material needs, there is an innate oneness that binds everyone together.

Despite people having different ways of living and meeting their daily needs, each individual has to take care of their personal requirements separately - eating, working, and spending - he said. To demonstrate the innate human capacity for empathy, Bhagwat proposed a simple experiment: when having a meal, one should not give food to a hungry person standing before them without avoiding their gaze.

Comparing humans to animals, Bhagwat highlighted that while animals have basic instincts like eating, sleeping, and procreating, they lack the ability to think, reason, and understand the distinction between right and wrong. He stressed that this unique human capacity is what sets us apart from the animal kingdom.

Bhagwat explained that the underlying principle sustaining the world, which India calls 'Dharma', is not merely religion or worship, but rather the sustaining rule of the universe that guides human beings in managing the dualities of life. In India, it is believed that human life is given to seek truth, leading to liberation. Ultimately, the RSS leader stressed that human existence is not purposeless or meaningless, but rather a meaningful journey with a purpose.