New York, August 29: Indian-American community leaders have expressed admiration for the message delivered by Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), emphasizing shared humanity, grassroots leadership, and the responsibilities of the Indian diaspora towards family, cultural heritage, and the environment.
During a meeting with religious leaders, attendees noted that Bhagwat articulated the work of the RSS in very simple terms. He spoke about the need for communities to build local capacities and collaborate, despite cultural and linguistic differences.
Jagdish Sewhani, president of the American India Public Affairs Committee, described this address as the most memorable moment of his nearly four decades in the U.S. He stated, “Today is the most memorable day of my life. I have been here for almost 40 years and have listened to leaders from around the world.”
Sewhani highlighted that Bhagwat discussed India, eternal traditions, Hindutva, and the contributions that Indian immigrants can make in the U.S. He remarked, “He explained what Indian migrants can do here in very simple and wonderful terms. I lack the words to express it.”
Guests at the event were also impressed by the essence of Bhagwat’s address. Sewhani mentioned Bhagwat’s discussion on sustainability, family life, and personal responsibility, stating, “These are small things, but they hold great significance.”
Sewhani noted that Bhagwat provided a clear description of the RSS for those in the audience who were unfamiliar with the organization. He said, “He explained in simple terms that the RSS prepares its workers, and what happens next depends on the workers.”
Anurag Maral, president of the ‘Seva Bay Area’ chapter and a professor at Stanford School of Medicine, appreciated Bhagwat’s explanation of how the RSS trains volunteers. Maral said, “He mentioned that the RSS focuses on preparing people. Those who are trained and become volunteers go on to do various kinds of work.”
Maral referenced the work done by ‘Seva’ volunteers in areas such as health inequality, educational equity, and food scarcity. He stated, “They prepare people, and it is the people who actually do the work.”
He emphasized that Bhagwat’s message about the equality of humanity holds significance beyond the Indian community. Maral noted, “Our cultures may differ, our languages may vary, but we are one people. Until we come together, we cannot address the many challenges visible in our society.”
Maral also stressed the importance of empowering communities to solve their own problems. He said, “How do you build local capacity to solve problems at the local level? This is truly important. I believe that a ‘top-down’ approach does not always work.”
Rakhi Israni, vice president of public affairs at Seva International and an attorney in California, highlighted the need to pass cultural knowledge to the younger generation in her remarks. She stated, “It is our duty to spend time with our children so they can understand their significance.”
Narasimham Deshika, a doctor and long-time RSS worker, mentioned that Bhagwat’s comments on family, cultural heritage, and environmental responsibilities were among the strongest parts of the speech.
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