Nagpur: In the midst of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Mohan Bhagwat, the head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), emphasized on Tuesday that the world is eagerly looking to India for leadership and as a model for a new approach to achieving peace.

Bhagwat, speaking at a ceremonial Dussehra event in Nagpur, stressed that the troubled world expects India to develop a fresh vision rooted in its own core values to address the contemporary challenges and needs of the global community.

He mentioned, "The world is grappling with fanaticism, arrogance, and religious sectarianism, which have led to conflicts such as the war in Ukraine or the Gaza Strip, stemming from clashes of interests and extremism. Unabashed consumerism, out of touch with nature, is contributing to various physical and mental health problems."

Bhagwat continued, "Terrorism, exploitation, and totalitarianism are running rampant, and it has become evident that the world's current vision is insufficient to counter these issues. Therefore, the world is looking to India with hope, expecting it to lead by example and present a new path to peace and prosperity, grounded in its timeless values and cultural traditions."

Bhagwat also called for a well-organized societal force to combat violence and hooliganism and urged such a force to provide "appropriate support" to the government. He emphasized the importance of respecting law and order, adhering to the constitution, and maintaining discipline, even in the face of provocations.

Regarding the media's role, Bhagwat stressed that it should be used to promote truth and harmony in society rather than being swayed by inflammatory propaganda.

Addressing the violence in Manipur, the RSS Chief urged civil society to bridge the gap of mutual mistrust, especially when both sides of a conflict are seeking peace.

Bhagwat also mentioned the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections, emphasizing the importance of avoiding emotional manipulation for votes and instead focusing on unity, integrity, identity, and the country's development.

He concluded by highlighting India's increasing global prominence and the need to move forward, despite those who oppose progress for their own reasons.

The annual 'Vijayadashmi Utsav' event of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) began in Nagpur with a 'Path Sanchalan' (route march) by RSS workers and featured Shankar Mahadevan as the chief guest. The event paid tribute to RSS founder KB Hedgewar and included a 'Shastra Pooja' ceremony on the occasion of 'Vijayadashami Utsav.' Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were also in attendance.

The RSS, founded in Nagpur in 1925 on Vijayadashami day, has celebrated the Vijayadashami Utsav annually with various distinguished guests from different fields.

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