Did PM Modi Celebrate Mohan Bhagwat's 75 Years of Dedication to Society?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mohan Bhagwat's 75th birthday highlights his societal contributions.
- He embodies the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
- PM Modi emphasizes Bhagwat's role in promoting national unity.
- Bhagwat's leadership is marked by empathy and adaptability.
- He plays a significant role in various national initiatives.
New Delhi, Sep 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday conveyed his heartfelt wishes to RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on the occasion of his 75th birthday, acknowledging his significant contributions, exceptional leadership, and admirable personal qualities.
In a message shared on the social media platform 'X', PM Modi remarked: "Motivated by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Shri Mohan Bhagwat Ji has devoted his entire life to societal transformation and fostering the spirit of harmony and brotherhood."
He continued, "As we celebrate his 75th birthday, I have penned my thoughts on Mohan Ji and his inspiring character. I pray for his long and healthy life in the service of Maa Bharti."
In a comprehensive blog post, PM Modi reflected on Bhagwat’s early journey with the RSS, his impact on national movements, and his distinct leadership style.
"Mohan Bhagwat Ji has consistently championed the idea of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’," the Prime Minister added.
He began by highlighting the significance of September 11, stating, "This day triggers two contrasting memories. The first recalls 1893, when Swami Vivekananda delivered his legendary address in Chicago... The second is the horrific 9/11 attacks, which targeted this very principle, succumbing to the threat of terrorism and radicalism."
He emphasized that this date also marks the birthday of "a figure who, inspired by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, has devoted his life to societal transformation and nurturing harmony and fraternity."
"For millions associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, he is affectionately referred to as Param Pujya Sarsanghchalak... Yes, I am speaking of Shri Mohan Bhagwat Ji, whose 75th birthday coincidentally falls in the same year the RSS celebrates its centenary," he stated.
Reflecting on his personal ties, PM Modi shared, "My connection with Mohan Ji’s family runs deep. I have been fortunate to work closely with Mohan Ji’s late father, Madhukarrao Bhagwat Ji."
He recalled Madhukarrao’s contributions to nation-building and his influence on Mohan Bhagwat’s development: "Madhukarrao Ji’s dedication to nation-building shaped his son, Mohanrao, to strive for India’s rejuvenation. It is as if Madhukarrao prepared another Parasmani in Mohanrao."
Discussing the role of a ‘Pracharak’, PM Modi clarified misconceptions: "When people hear ‘Pracharak’, they might mistakenly think it denotes merely campaigning... But those familiar with the RSS understand that the Pracharak tradition is fundamental to the organization’s mission."
He noted that Bhagwat’s initial years as a Pracharak aligned with a tumultuous phase in India’s history: "This was during the imposition of the harsh Emergency... Mohan Ji and numerous RSS Swayamsevaks tirelessly worked in rural and underprivileged regions of Maharashtra, especially Vidarbha."
Highlighting Bhagwat’s progression through various pivotal roles in the RSS, PM Modi remarked: "Bhagwat Ji has undertaken numerous positions in the RSS. He has executed each of these responsibilities with remarkable skill."
He reminisced about Bhagwat’s role as Akhil Bharatiya Sharirik Pramukh during the 1990s, his deep grassroots engagement in Bihar, his promotion to Sarkaryawah in 2000, and his ongoing leadership as Sarsanghchalak since 2009.
"Being Sarsanghchalak transcends organizational duty... Mohan Ji has infused this role with his unique strength, intellectual depth, and empathetic leadership, all inspired by the principle of Nation First," the Prime Minister said.
Further discussing Bhagwat’s leadership style, PM Modi emphasized two essential traits: "If I were to identify two qualities that Mohan Ji holds dear and integrates into his work, they would be continuity and adaptation."
PM Modi commended Bhagwat’s innate connection with the youth, his willingness to embrace change, and his active public engagement in the digital era.
"Overall, Bhagwat Ji’s tenure will be recognized as the most transformative era in the RSS' century-long journey," he noted, acknowledging critical changes such as uniform transformation and enhancements in training programs.
Recalling the Covid-19 pandemic, PM Modi lauded Bhagwat’s leadership during the crisis:
"Maintaining traditional RSS activities proved challenging... Mohan Ji advocated for a greater reliance on technology."
He added, "We also mourned the loss of several dedicated Swayamsevaks, but Mohan Ji’s inspiration ensured their resolve remained steadfast."
Reflecting on a previous event, he said: "During the inauguration of the Madhav Netra Chikitsalaya in Nagpur, I remarked that the RSS resembles an Akshayavat, an eternal banyan tree... The commitment with which Mohan Bhagwat Ji has dedicated himself to nurturing and promoting these values is genuinely uplifting."
Highlighting Bhagwat’s personal attributes, the PM added, "Another commendable trait of Mohan Ji is his gentle demeanor. He possesses an extraordinary capacity to listen."
He recognized Bhagwat’s participation in national initiatives: "From the Swachh Bharat Mission to Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, he consistently motivates the entire RSS family to invigorate these campaigns."
He also mentioned Bhagwat’s “Panch Parivartan” framework for societal welfare, emphasizing social harmony, family values, environmental consciousness, national identity, and civic responsibilities.
"Mohan Ji exemplifies both clarity of vision and decisive action in abundance," the Prime Minister stated.
He added, "Bhagwat Ji has consistently championed ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’, firmly believing in India’s diversity and the celebration of its myriad cultures and traditions."
PM Modi also shared insights into Bhagwat’s interests:
"Few know he is quite adept at various Indian musical instruments. His enthusiasm for reading is evident in many of his speeches and interactions."
Concluding his message, PM Modi reflected on the RSS' centenary year:
"It is also a delightful coincidence that this year, Vijaya Dashami, Gandhi Jayanti, Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti, and the RSS centenary celebrations coincide on the same day... We are guided by a wise and diligent Sarsanghchalak in Mohan Ji, leading the organization in these times."
"Mohan Ji is a living embodiment of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, demonstrating that when we transcend boundaries and embrace everyone as our own, we foster trust, unity, and equality within society. I once again wish Mohan Ji a long and healthy life in the service of Maa Bharti," he concluded.