Diversity and Unity lie in India’s DNA, says RSS Chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat

Addresses the ‘Universal Oneness Celebration’ event held at Madison Square Garden in New York

New York: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that while discussions about the United States of America often center around pluralism, any discourse on India revolves around the core ideology of “unity in diversity.” He asserted that both unity and diversity are intrinsically ingrained in India’s DNA.

Dr. Bhagwat was delivering the keynote address at the ‘Universal Oneness Celebration’ organized by the American Hindus for Engagement and Dialogue (AHAD Forum) at Madison Square Garden, New York.

Addressing the grand gathering, Dr. Bhagwat stated that nations are not merely defined by geographical borders; rather, they bear specific responsibilities within the global framework. Every nation has a destiny that it must fulfill. India’s core responsibility is to embody unity within diversity and continually remind the world of this oneness. He noted that celebrating human diversity further strengthens our collective unity and emphasized that diversity must be respected and accepted.

During his speech, the RSS Chief highlighted two contrasting worldviews: one that advocates “live and let live,” and another that dogmatically demands “obey my command.” He noted that in Hindi and Sanskrit, the word raksha (protection) refers to safeguarding those who listen, whereas demonic mindsets demand complete submission or utility. Rejecting such narrow views, he stressed that seeing humanity as one family and living in brotherhood is paramount, as all individuals are fundamentally interconnected. True Dharma, he explained, is the unifying principle that embraces all, eliminates discrimination, maintains balance, and demonstrates the middle path.

Dr. Bhagwat also touched upon environmental responsibility, comparing modern observances like Father’s Day and Mother’s Day to the constant obligation humanity holds toward nature. Highlighted our commitment to environmental protection, he raised a crucial question regarding agriculture, asking what society would consume if farmers stopped farming, noting that even mill workers rely on cotton grown by farmers.

The ‘Universal Oneness Celebration’ witnessed overwhelming global participation, bringing together over 6,000 delegates representing 850 cities across 31 US states, along with attendees from 29 countries worldwide.