RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Stresses Unity At New York Event

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed a large gathering in New York, stressing that diversity and unity are central to India's identity.

On August 29, Bhagwat spoke at the 'Universal Oneness Celebration' held at Madison Square Garden, organised by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD) Forum. The event brought together thousands of Indian-Americans and representatives from different faith and community organisations.

Bhagwat emphasized that any Hindu who believes there should be no Muslims in India would cease to be a Hindu. He said that differences between people should not undermine the underlying unity of humanity. Bhagwat also stated that diversity is a natural principle and should be respected and protected rather than treated as a source of division.

The RSS chief highlighted India's tradition of providing shelter to people belonging to different faiths and communities. He described unity in diversity as being embedded in India's DNA and called for diversity to be 'celebrated, respected and accepted.' Bhagwat urged members of the Indian diaspora to remain committed to their responsibilities towards both their adopted country and India.

The event was centred on the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or 'the world is one family.' Organisers said the gathering sought to promote shared heritage, unity, civic responsibility and global harmony. More than 250 Hindu-American organisations were involved in the event.

Bhagwat's New York address came as part of the RSS's centenary-year outreach among the Indian diaspora in the United States. The event was presented as a platform for cultural exchange and interfaith dialogue, with the organisers describing it as an effort to bring people together despite differences.

The RSS chief's US visit has also included engagements outside the main event, including a visit to an ISKCON temple in New York. The official event website said more than 5,000 people were expected to attend, while its later fact sheet put expected attendance at around 6,000.

The Universal Oneness Celebration is a significant event, promoting unity and diversity among people of different faiths and communities. It highlights the importance of respecting and protecting diversity, rather than treating it as a source of division.

In the context of India's diverse population, Bhagwat's message of unity and diversity is crucial. India has a long history of providing shelter to people belonging to different faiths and communities. The country's tradition of promoting unity in diversity is embedded in its DNA.

The RSS chief's emphasis on unity and diversity is also relevant in the context of the Indian diaspora in the United States. The event brought together thousands of Indian-Americans, promoting shared heritage, unity, civic responsibility and global harmony.

In conclusion, Mohan Bhagwat's speech at the Universal Oneness Celebration in New York emphasizes the importance of unity and diversity in India. His message is crucial in promoting respect and protection for diversity, rather than treating it as a source of division. The event is a significant step towards promoting unity and diversity among people of different faiths and communities.