Mumbai, Feb 7 (NationPress) The chief of the RSS, Mohan Bhagwat, stated on Saturday that Bharat is on the path to becoming a superpower, but its journey to become Vishwaguru is equally essential.

During his address at the two-day "New Horizons" lecture series commemorating the RSS centenary, Bhagwat emphasized that Bharat's ascension to Vishwaguru should not be through domination but rather by leading from within and by setting an example.

He remarked, "Achieving Vishwaguru status demands significant effort, such as character development and societal organization, rather than exerting dominance. As long as Dharma serves as the sustaining force for all existence in Bharat, it will maintain this position and elevate the world," he affirmed.

The event celebrating the RSS Centenary Year was graced by over 900 distinguished guests, including actor Salman Khan, as well as notable scientists, industrialists, and artists.

Bhagwat clarified that Dharma is not merely a "religion" but a "force governing the universe" and an obligation towards all living beings. He described Dharma as a framework of "Universal Discipline" that sustains all forms of life. He posited that India uniquely offers a "third path" for the world, striking a balance between the extremes of capitalism and communism through spiritual materialism.

He stated that the label "Hindu" is not an imposed foreign term but an inclusive descriptor for those aligned with Bharat's ethos, which includes pride in the land, respect for its culture, and a shared legacy of ancestors. He noted that divisions arise from outside influences or internal forgetfulness, rather than from the Hindu identity itself.

Bhagwat articulated that the RSS's vision fosters the reclamation of this shared indigenous heritage to promote social harmony (samajik samrasta) and national strength. He asserted that the Hindu identity is indigenous and not something that "originated from elsewhere." He reiterated that the "Hindu" identity serves as a cultural and civilizational umbrella.

He declared that there is no "Ahindu" (non-Hindu) in India, as all citizens share the same ancestry and cultural heritage, irrespective of their current religion.

The RSS chief critiqued the prevalent use of the term dharmanirpekshata, often equated with secularism, arguing that it is technically inaccurate. He proposed that the more appropriate term is panthnirpekshata (neutrality towards various sects/ways of worship), as Dharma itself is a universal moral code that cannot be treated with neutrality.

Bhagwat reflected on the RSS's journey through significant challenges, noting that despite difficulties, the Sangh has thrived through dedication, perseverance, and selfless service without seeking power or returns. These trials have strengthened the organization without altering its mission.

He remarked, "The RSS is characterized by Sanatan—timeless values derived from Bharat's civilizational ethos. It is not reactive or temporary but represents the unfolding of the Hindu nation's life mission."

He emphasized that while external forms may gradually evolve—much like a banyan seed growing—the intrinsic nature (swabhav) remains unchanged. Perceptions of change may arise from new expressions, but these are merely manifestations of growth, not deviations. "By adhering to Sanatan principles, the RSS navigates challenges without compromising its ideals," he concluded.