RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday described India as an “immortal civilisation,” emphasising its cultural resilience and ability to withstand historical challenges. Speaking on the second day of his three-day visit to Manipur, Bhagwat said the social structure of India was strong enough to ensure the continuity of the Hindu community and the broader cultural fabric of the nation.
“We witnessed the rise and fall of many nations, but India continues to stand strong. Situations come and go, civilisations change, yet we remain,” Bhagwat said while addressing a public gathering.
Reflecting on ancient civilisations, he noted, “Countries like Greece, Egypt and Rome saw decline over time, yet Bharat has endured throughout history.” Bhagwat added that India’s societal “network” had ensured that its communities continued to survive and adapt.
The RSS chief also reiterated that Bharatvarsh has been referenced across ancient Indian texts including the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and the works of poet Kalidasa. According to him, these texts defined Bharatvarsh as the land stretching “from Manipur to Afghanistan.”
He stated that India had experienced shifting political landscapes for centuries, transitioning between periods of independence, foreign invasions, fragmented kingdoms and unified rule. “Despite all these phases, India remained a unified and historic country,” he said.
Bhagwat suggested that divergent political views seen today emerged largely after World War II, when the geopolitical order changed significantly. He added that leaders often express conflicting opinions due to “political compulsions,” even though the foundational understanding of a shared India persists.
During his visit, Bhagwat also met tribal leaders in Imphal and called for greater social harmony and unity. He reiterated that the RSS does not engage directly in politics nor controls any organisation, emphasising the idea of a “shared consciousness” of India. “Unity does not demand uniformity,” he said, calling for collective strength through mutual respect.
