Washington, April 24: Dattatreya Hosabale, the General Secretary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), spoke about the organization’s global expansion, its civilizational philosophy, and its role in uniting society. He emphasized that as India strengthens its ties with the United States and other Western nations, cultural values and modernity can coexist harmoniously.
During an informal discussion at the Hudson Institute’s ‘New India Conference,’ Hosabale described the RSS as a voluntary movement deeply rooted in India’s cultural ethos and civilizational values. He noted that for the past century, the organization’s primary focus has been to build a network of selfless volunteers dedicated to social service and nation-building.
“The RSS is a voluntary movement inspired by cultural ethos and civilizational values. For the last 100 years, it has been engaged in preparing volunteers. The organization conducts thousands of meetings daily and weekly to instill confidence, a spirit of service, and a sense of unity,” he stated.
Hosabale highlighted that the RSS has expanded its work in various sectors, including education, health, rural development, and disaster relief. He mentioned that volunteers collectively run around 40 types of social organizations contributing to nation-building.
Addressing misconceptions about the RSS in Western countries, he asserted that the organization has not been understood correctly. He refuted claims labeling it as “anti-minority, anti-development, and anti-modernity,” stating that such perceptions have been shaped over the years.
Regarding ideology, Hosabale emphasized that the RSS views Hindu identity not as a religious concept but as a civilizational one. “Hindu identity is a civilizational identity, not religious. There is no room for anyone to feel isolated,” he added. He stressed the importance of dialogue with various groups to dispel “misunderstandings” and “doubts.”
He also stated that tradition and modernity are not opposing forces. According to him, both can progress together. He likened this to a banyan tree, where strong roots support new leaves and flowers over time, symbolizing the growth of culture and modernity.
On India’s global role, he expressed that India seeks good relations with all countries, especially the United States. He emphasized that these relationships should be based on mutual trust, respect, and understanding each other’s needs.
To strengthen India-U.S. relations, he advocated for increased contact among people. He noted that biases sometimes hinder progress, making better understanding essential. Institutions, think tanks, and universities can play a crucial role in bridging these gaps.
Regarding the RSS’s priorities within the country, he outlined five main points: social harmony, environmentally friendly living, family values, self-reliance, and civic duty and awareness. He stated that these principles are universal and contribute to building a strong and prosperous nation.
Hosabale described volunteering within the RSS as a lifelong commitment. “It is a way of life… 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Once a volunteer, always a volunteer,” he remarked.
This ‘fireside chat’ was part of the Hudson Institute’s ‘New India Conference,’ which brought together policymakers, scholars, and strategic experts to discuss India’s growing global role and the future of the India-U.S. partnership.
The conference took place at a time when the U.S. views India as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. Established in 1925, the RSS is considered one of the world’s largest volunteer organizations and has had a long-standing impact on India’s social and political life.
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