India must rise to lead, not dominate, says Bhagwat while citing US-Iran tensions

Nagpur: Citing tensions between the United States and Iran, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said the world listens only to the powerful, and asserted that India must emerge as a strong and prosperous nation that guides the world through its civilisational values rather than dominate it.Addressing swayamsevaks at the concluding function of RSS Vikas Varg-2 at Reshimbagh, Bhagwat said conflicts driven by selfish interests were affecting even nations not directly involved in them. "The war is between Iran and America, yet oil prices are rising here. Powerful nations impose their will; those without strength must bow their heads. One may occupy another country completely, drop bombs, or stop global oil supplies — all this happens because of power," he said. It was among the first times when Bhagwat directly named the two countries while underlining the global impact of geopolitical conflicts. Bhagwat, however, maintained that India's strength would not be used for domination. "Bharat will not use its strength to dominate others. It will use it to protect and support all," he said, describing India as a dharma-centric nation (Dharmapran Desh). Stressing societal preparedness, Bhagwat said India's resurgence would not happen automatically. "India had long spoken of becoming a vishwaguru but the journey remained incomplete because society was yet to ready itself. Disciplined, selfless and committed individuals were essential for India to fulfil its civilisational role," he said.Linking India's future to its heritage, Bhagwat said India once led the world spiritually, economically and scientifically. "Much of the world's knowledge traditions including mathematics, ayurveda and philosophy had roots in India. Those who enslaved us were not superior to us. Their numbers were not greater. The society later lost its preparedness. We will have to rebuild it," he said.Bhagwat also cautioned against forces attempting to divide society and weaken Indian civilisational values, without naming any entity. With RSS completing 100 years, he said the organisation's work was not for itself but for the nation. "Our name need not even remain in history. All credit should go to society, because it is through the organised strength of society that the nation will rise," he said adding "If this happens, then within the coming two or three decades we shall witness that Bharat which Swami Vivekananda spoke of."Chief guest, industrialist Kumar Mangalam Birla, emphasised the importance of self-reliance, national capability and long-term institution building, saying India was passing through a defining phase in its civilisational and economic journey. Referring to global instability, technological disruptions and shifting economic realities, Birla said India must strengthen its resilience and build capacities across sectors. He highlighted how infrastructure growth, financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and industrial expansion were collectively contributing to nation building, while urging the youth to "Build in India, build for India and build for the world". Praising RSS' role in social service and character building, Birla said enduring institutions and strong industries together shape future of a nation.