BY MOHAMMAD TARIQUE SALEEM
On the auspicious occasion of Narad Jayanti, senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) functionary Narendra Thakur urged Hindus across the country to leave behind all forms of discrimination and embrace unity. Speaking candidly at Hotel Fortune Inn, Hazratganj, Lucknow during a media interaction, Thakur stressed that divisions based on caste, language, region, or any other identity have no place in today’s Hindu society. “We must rise above these differences,” Thakur said. “The time has come to strengthen the bonds that unite us as one community rather than allowing old divisions to weaken us.”
Thakur highlighted that the core philosophy of the RSS has always been character-building. According to him, a strong nation can only be built on the foundation of strong individuals. He pointed out that the Sangh is not working in isolation, it is backed by a vast network of more than 32 affiliated organizations that are quietly contributing in the fields of education, social service, healthcare, and community development across India.
Reflecting on the organization’s century-long journey, Thakur described the past 100 years as a saga of dedication, struggle, and silent achievements. He paid rich tributes to the founder, Dr. K.B. Hedgewar, and reminded everyone that the RSS has always placed ideals above individuals. That is why the revered saffron flag (Bhagwa Dhwaj), symbolizing purity, sacrifice, and selfless service, continues to be the guiding force for lakhs of swayamsevaks.
Today, the RSS runs over 85,000 daily shakhas and more than 32,000 weekly meetings across the length and breadth of the country. From remote tribal hamlets to bustling cities, thousands of volunteers work selflessly at the grassroots level, often away from the glare of media. Looking ahead, Thakur spoke about the vision of “Panch Parivartan”, five major transformations the organization aims to bring in society. One of the most important among them is promoting social harmony and reducing discrimination within Hindu society.
He was visibly pleased while recalling how people from diverse backgrounds came together in large numbers during the RSS centenary celebrations, calling it a heartening sign of growing unity. Thakur also laid strong emphasis on reviving family values. “A stable family is the foundation of a stable society,” he said, adding that the Sangh is actively running family awareness programs to strengthen these bonds.
He further spoke about environmental protection, self-reliance (Atmanirbharta), pride in one’s language and culture, and the importance of fulfilling civic responsibilities. When asked about the recent UGC guidelines, Thakur chose to tread carefully. He said the matter is currently sub-judice before the Supreme Court and the RSS would refrain from commenting on it at this stage.
However, he reiterated that maintaining social harmony should remain everyone’s priority. The event, attended by several senior RSS functionaries, prominent journalists, and distinguished guests, turned into a meaningful platform for open dialogue and reflection. In essence, Narendra Thakur’s message was clear and heartfelt: Hindu society must heal its internal wounds, reject discrimination in all forms, and move forward with unity, discipline, and a deep sense of duty towards both society and the nation.
