BHOPAL: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat stressed the importance of religious tolerance and humility while addressing young people at the Yuva Dharma Sansad in Ujjain on Friday. He said individuals should remain committed to their own traditions while respecting different forms of worship.
Bhagwat also cautioned against ego and the belief that everything can be controlled according to an individual’s wishes. He said arrogance can create the misconception that a person has authority over everything, whereas life does not always unfold according to personal expectations.
Speaking about the participation of young people in discussions on dharma, Bhagwat said such conversations should not be viewed as something reserved for old age. He described dharma as a principle that extends throughout life and is reflected in a person’s conduct and responsibilities.
He referred to duties such as those of a son, a ruler and a human being, explaining that dharma determines responsibilities according to the nature and role of individuals. He also emphasised that dharma should be reflected through conduct rather than remaining limited to books, lectures or theoretical knowledge.
Bhagwat further spoke about religious coexistence, saying people should remain committed to the form of worship they follow through their family, tradition or spiritual teachers while giving equal respect to other traditions. He also stated that his approach does not support conversion and instead emphasises remaining rooted in one’s chosen form of worship.
He also highlighted the role of young people in carrying forward values associated with dharma, linking them with both material progress and spiritual development.
The address took place a day before Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s scheduled Chhatron Ki Goonj programme in neighbouring Indore. Bhagwat did not name Gandhi or any other political leader during his speech, although the timing drew attention as political activity intensified in Madhya Pradesh.
