On October 12, 2024, during his annual Vijayadashami (Dasara) address in Nagpur, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a powerful speech focused on the challenges Hindus face both domestically and internationally. He particularly pointed to the ongoing violence against Hindus in Bangladesh as a cautionary example for the Hindu community in India. His speech, while addressing a range of topics, underscored the need for unity and empowerment among Hindus to resist radical threats and preserve cultural traditions.
Violence Against Hindus in Bangladesh: A Lesson for India
Bhagwat highlighted the situation in Bangladesh, where Hindus have faced violent attacks and persecution for decades. He noted that while there are immediate causes for the violence, such as political tensions or religious extremism, the underlying issue is a systematic targeting of Hindus. For the first time in recent history, Hindus in Bangladesh united and took to the streets to defend themselves from these attacks, signaling a new chapter in their struggle for safety and dignity.
The RSS chief warned that the same kind of radical violence could affect Hindus in India if they do not remain vigilant. “What is happening in Bangladesh is a learning for Hindus in India,” Bhagwat stated. He emphasized that Hindus must unite, become stronger, and resist any attempts to weaken them. He argued that unity and strength are the only ways to prevent atrocities and safeguard the Hindu community across the world.
The Importance of Strength and Unity
Bhagwat made it clear that weakness invites aggression. He stated that when any community or nation shows signs of weakness, it becomes an easy target for radical elements and external forces. “If we are weak, we are inviting atrocity,” he remarked. He encouraged Hindus not only in India but worldwide to stand together, as a strong and united community would be better equipped to handle threats, whether they come from extremist violence or other forms of pressure.
This call for unity was accompanied by an appeal to the Indian government to support Hindus globally, particularly those in nations like Bangladesh where they are a vulnerable minority. He noted that it is not just a fight for Hindus but for all minorities who could fall victim to violent radicalism.
Bangladesh’s Geopolitical Shift and Growing Threats
In addition to the religious violence, Bhagwat also expressed concern about the growing anti-India narrative in Bangladesh. He mentioned that there are discussions within Bangladesh about aligning with Pakistan, primarily due to the belief that Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities can protect them from perceived threats from India. Bhagwat pointed out the irony of this stance, as India played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971.
He warned that certain countries and forces are promoting these narratives to weaken India. He emphasized the need for India to remain alert and counter these divisive strategies, which are being promoted by external actors aiming to destabilize the country.
Cultural Threats: Wokeism and Cultural Marxism
Bhagwat’s address wasn’t just limited to geopolitical concerns. He also spoke at length about the dangers posed by what he termed “Wokeism” and “Cultural Marxism.” According to him, these ideologies aim to destroy traditional cultural values, disrupt social harmony, and undermine the very foundation of Indian society. He warned that these movements seek to control the education system, media, and intellectual discourse to create division and confusion among people.
He called upon Hindus to resist these cultural threats by staying true to their traditions and values, and by maintaining control over the institutions that shape society’s thoughts and beliefs.
Conclusion
Mohan Bhagwat’s Dasara speech was a rallying cry for Hindus to unite, strengthen themselves, and stay vigilant against both external and internal threats. By pointing to the violence in Bangladesh as a cautionary tale, he urged the Hindu community in India to learn from their counterparts in the neighboring country and to ensure they are not weakened by divisions or complacency. He also highlighted the importance of resisting new ideological challenges that seek to disrupt India’s cultural and traditional roots. His message resonated with the crowd, reiterating the core principles of the RSS—strength through unity and unwavering commitment to cultural and national integrity