RSS Hosts Hindu Sammelan in Haridwar as Part of Centenary Celebrations
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) marked its centenary with a significant Hindu Sammelan at the revered Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar on Sunday. This event, part of the organization's 100-year celebrations, brought together prominent spiritual leaders and RSS officials to discuss the future of Hindu unity and cultural preservation in India.
Speakers Emphasize Strengthening Sanatan Dharma
Addressing the gathering, speakers clarified that the RSS aims to strengthen Sanatan Dharma and Indian cultural values rather than oppose any community. Dr Shailendra, RSS prant pracharak and chief guest, highlighted the organization's century-long journey, noting its sacrifices, resilience, and contributions in education and healthcare sectors.
He recounted historical milestones, including the participation of 3,000 RSS volunteers in the 1963 Republic Day parade, which he cited as recognition of its patriotism despite past bans by Congress governments. Dr Shailendra also pointed to the growing global influence of RSS and called for Hindus to unite across caste, creed, region, and class divisions.
Concerns Over Demographic Imbalances and Religious Spaces
Expressing concern over demographic imbalances in Uttarakhand, particularly in areas like Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Haridwar, Dr Shailendra advocated for restricting entry to non-Hindus at Har-ki-Pauri. He drew comparisons to similar practices at religious sites in Rishikesh and Tirupati, emphasizing the need to protect these sacred spaces.
Recounting historical battles fought to safeguard Har-ki-Pauri, he stressed the importance of preserving Hindu heritage. Nitin Gautam, president of Ganga Sabha, echoed this sentiment, calling for the entire Kumbh Mela region and all Ganga ghats to be maintained as Hindu spaces. He clarified that the term "Hindu" encompasses Jain, Buddhist, and Sikh communities, and urged even non-Hindus living in these areas to respect local religious sentiments and traditions.
Spiritual Leaders Critique Policies and Praise RSS Growth
Mahamandaleshwar Swami Harichetananand, a guest of honour, criticized post-independence policies for marginalizing Hindu voices. He stated, "Hinduism does not discriminate and has historically not attacked any country, community, or culture," citing 13 sutras from Hindu scriptures to illustrate its inclusivity. Swami Harichetananand described India as moving towards becoming a Hindu nation and urged efforts to bring back those who had left the Hindu fold.
Another guest of honour, Mahamandaleshwar Sadhvi Maitreyi Yati, lauded RSS's growth over the past century, likening it to a banyan tree that provides shelter and strength to the nation. She praised Dr Hedgewar, the founder of RSS, as a visionary and nationalist, highlighting the organization's enduring impact on Indian society.
Key Takeaways from the Event
- The RSS centenary celebrations included a Hindu Sammelan focused on promoting Sanatan Dharma and cultural values.
- Speakers addressed issues like demographic changes in Uttarakhand and the protection of Hindu religious sites.
- There was a strong call for Hindu unity across various social divides to strengthen the community globally.
- Spiritual leaders emphasized the inclusive nature of Hinduism while advocating for its preservation in modern India.
This event underscores the RSS's ongoing efforts to reinforce Hindu identity and cultural heritage as it enters its second century, with Haridwar serving as a symbolic backdrop for these discussions.
