To celebrate the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a ‘Yuva Sammelan’ was held at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, attracting participation from hundreds of students across prestigious institutions such as AIIMS Guwahati, National Law University (NLU), and Gauhati University. RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale delivered a keynote address, referring to the conclave as a “mini Bharat,” representing the country’s diversity and unity through youth from various backgrounds.
Hosabale remarked that every Indian language is a national language and emphasized that Sanskrit is the cultural bedrock of Bharatiya languages. He reiterated the civilisational ethos of Sangh traditions, highlighting that RSS’s rituals and compositions are inspired by Sanskrit literature and indigenous culture. Citing the Vedic ideal “Aano bhadra kratavo yantu vishwatah,” he conveyed that Bharat welcomes noble ideas while staying true to its own values.
The speaker discussed the concept of modernity, distinguishing it from westernization and advocating for the embrace of innovation alongside timeless civilizational values, describing Sanatan thought as both eternal and ever-renewing. He noted that RSS was established to revitalize these cultural principles and challenge the lingering colonial mindset in Indian institutions.
Highlighting Bharat’s cultural unity, Hosabale referenced thinkers like Kalidasa and Ram Manohar Lohia, who recognized cultural interconnectedness amidst diversity. He illustrated this point by stating that Lord Rama links North and South India and Lord Krishna connects East and West, while the philosophy of Shiva signifies a unifying force. He acknowledged the participation of Sangh swayamsevaks in the Assam Movement against illegal infiltration, asserting that diversity should be a source of strength that unites rather than divides society.
The importance of selfless patriotism and character building was also emphasized, as he identified both individual and national character as vital for balanced progression. He praised the tribal traditions of the Northeast as examples of unity in diversity and highlighted the role of youth movements in Assam in fostering national consciousness, underscoring the crucial contributions of young people in nation-building efforts through service and social initiatives. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including RSS Assam Kshetra Sanghchalak Dr. Umesh Chakravarty and local educational leaders.