Toronto: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, while addressing the Hindu Vishwa Bandhu – Embrace the World in Friendship event in Toronto, spoke about India’s cultural traditions, the meaning of the term ‘Hindu’ and the country’s approach towards diversity and those seeking refuge.
Bhagwat said the word ‘Hindu’ should not be understood through a particular language, form of worship or way of life. He described these differences as part of the diversity among human beings and said Hindus traditionally respect and accept such diversity.
Speaking about India’s history as a place of refuge, the RSS chief said people facing persecution in different parts of the world had found shelter in Bharat. He noted that while some groups had entered the country as aggressors, they eventually became part of Indian society while retaining their distinct identities. He also referred to the presence of Muslim, Christian and Jewish communities in India.
‘Bharat became Vishwaguru through its character’
Bhagwat also discussed India’s historical relationship with the wider world, arguing that the country’s influence was not built through territorial conquest.
He said Bharat may be described as a superpower today, but its civilisational influence came from a different tradition. According to him, India became Vishwaguru by serving and contributing to the world rather than seeking to establish itself as a Mahashakti.
He recalled accounts of India’s ancestors travelling across different regions, including areas from Mexico to Siberia and Southeast Asia. According to Bhagwat, these journeys were undertaken without conquering foreign territories. Instead, he said, Indian traditions and knowledge, including astronomy, Ayurveda and civilisational values, were shared with other societies.
Emphasis on ‘unity in diversity’
Bhagwat further highlighted what he described as India’s tradition of helping others. He said Bharat has historically extended assistance when countries or communities have needed support, describing this approach as part of the country’s cultural character.
He also spoke about the relationship between unity and diversity in Indian society. According to Bhagwat, Indian traditions teach people to view both living and non-living beings as connected and to recognise unity amid differences.
He argued that diversity does not necessarily stand in opposition to unity in India. Instead, he said, diversity itself can be understood as an expression of unity.
Bhagwat’s address in Toronto focused on India’s civilisational outlook, its treatment of diversity and its historical engagement with other societies, while presenting these themes as part of the country’s broader cultural identity.
