In a significant address that blended spirituality with environmentalism, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale called for a universal embrace of nature worship, stating it should rise above religious confines. Speaking at a Hindu conference in Gorakhpur on Wednesday, Hosabale asserted that protecting the environment is the true essence of 'dharma' or the art of living.
A Call for Universal Environmental Dharma
Addressing the gathering at the Khorabar playground, Hosabale presented a compelling vision where reverence for nature becomes a common ground for all communities. He explicitly stated that Muslims, or followers of any faith, would lose nothing by offering respect to rivers, trees, and the sun in the larger interest of environmental protection. He clarified that such environmental worship would not prevent anyone from visiting their mosques or Eidgahs, framing it as a complementary, non-exclusive practice.
"Save forests, land, animals and water — this itself is religion," Hosabale declared. He elaborated that dharma is fundamentally about righteous living, and safeguarding the natural world is central to that duty. He drew from India's ancient civilisational ethos, highlighting how ancestors not only preached environmental care but practised it through the worship of rivers and nature.
Indian Traditions as Global Gifts
Hosabale positioned India's spiritual and wellness practices as universal offerings. He cited yoga, pranayama, and Surya Namaskar as gifts of Indian tradition meant for the entire world. "Anyone, from any country or faith, can practise yoga. It harms no one," he remarked, underscoring the inclusive potential of these disciplines.
Using symbolism from Hindu deities, he explained that the deep association of gods with rivers, animals, and birds conveys a timeless message: respect for nature and all living beings is integral to faith. "If you worship rivers or stones, it is also your responsibility to keep them pure," he added, linking devotion directly to conservation action.
Dharma, Equality, and Cultural Concerns
Explaining the concept of dharma further, Hosabale used the analogy of traffic rules that apply equally to everyone, regardless of their social or economic status. He strongly emphasized the principle of social equality, stating that those who serve society or keep villages clean should never be considered untouchable.
Expressing concern over shifting cultural practices, the RSS leader noted a worrying drift among children away from Indian traditions. "We celebrate English birthdays but forget to teach our children the Gita or Hanuman Chalisa," he observed, calling for a renewed focus on cultural and spiritual education within families.
Hosabale's speech in Gorakhpur ultimately wove together themes of environmental urgency, civilisational wisdom, and social harmony, presenting nature worship not as a sectarian ritual but as a universal dharma essential for planetary survival.
