Vijayadashami 2026: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Says India’s Diversity Must Be Accepted and Protected

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday, October 20, said India’s diversity is a defining feature of the country and must be accepted and protected. Addressing the organisation’s annual Vijayadashami event in Nagpur, Maharashtra, Bhagwat stressed the importance of social harmony, national unity and a shared sense of Indian identity as the RSS marked its centenary year.

Bhagwat’s address covered a range of social and international issues, including cultural identity, public protests and geopolitical developments. He also performed shastra puja as part of the Vijayadashami celebrations. Vijayadashami 2026: PM Narendra Modi Extends Greetings, Wishes Happiness, Prosperity and Success.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Delivers Annual Vijayadashami Address

श्री विजयादशमी उत्सव 2026 में पूजनीय सरसंघचालक जी का उद्बोधन।

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— RSS (@RSSorg) October 20, 2026

अपने कार्य के शतवार्षिकी कार्यक्रमों व लक्ष्यों को पूर्ण करने के पश्चात समाज की संगठित पुरुषार्थी विजयशालिनी शक्ति खड़ी करने की ओर संघ बढ़ेगा - सरसंघचालक डॉ मोहन भागवत जी

RSS #Vijayadashami https://t.co/oubn4835V8

— RSS (@RSSorg) October 20, 2026

‘India Is a Land of Diversity’

Emphasising India’s plural character, Bhagwat said the country’s traditional approach has been to accept and safeguard its diversity. He referred to differences in faith, language, region, caste, food habits and customs, and underlined the need for a common foundation that could bring people together.

He said the country’s unity depended on strengthening emotional bonds among citizens and maintaining a shared sense of belonging. Bhagwat also referred to the idea of Bharatiyata, or Indian identity, as a unifying force that can coexist with the country’s many social and cultural differences. Dussehra 2026: Public Holidays for Vijayadashami Across India.

Mohan Bhagwat Invokes Sant Ravidas

The RSS chief invoked Sant Ravidas while discussing social harmony and cultural values. He recalled the saint’s message of devotion, commitment to one’s principles and harmony in society, saying his teachings helped strengthen people during a period of fear and social uncertainty. Bhagwat’s reference placed the emphasis on the role of spiritual and social reformers in encouraging cohesion and preserving cultural values.

Protests Should Aim to Find Solutions

Bhagwat said protests were a natural part of a democracy when people faced problems, but argued that demonstrations should focus on finding solutions rather than deepening divisions. He urged protesters, political leaders and the administration to respect constitutional principles, the law and standards of public conduct.

He also warned that protests could be used for political gain or to generate hostility towards particular individuals, groups or ideologies. These remarks came as he discussed political upheavals in countries including France, Albania, Nepal and Bangladesh, and alleged that external forces sought to weaken India. These were Bhagwat’s assertions during the speech.

RSS Marks Its Centenary Year

The Vijayadashami gathering in Nagpur holds particular significance as the RSS marks 100 years since its founding in 1925. The annual event combines traditional ceremonies with an address by the organisation’s chief on social, cultural and national issues.

Bhagwat’s speech placed emphasis on preserving India’s diversity while strengthening social cohesion, cultural awareness and a shared national identity. He called for citizens to avoid divisions and work towards the country’s long-term development.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 20, 2026 12:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).