RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday reminded Indians that they should not take their independence lightly and stressed the need for citizens to work hard and make sacrifices to safeguard it, besides contributing to the overall prosperity and peace of the world.
Speaking to a crowd at the RSS headquarters in Bhubaneswar on Independence Day, Bhagwat pointed out that a free India has duties not just outside India, in the world which has grappled with enduring problems for more than two millennia.
“Our ancestors secured India’s independence through supreme sacrifices. We, too, must work as hard as they did and make similar sacrifices to keep freedom alive, strengthen the nation’s self-confidence, and emerge as a ‘Vishwa Guru’ (global leader) guiding a world engaged in conflict,” he said.
Bhagwat emphasized that Indians should follow the commitment of their ancestors who struggled for independence over three generations. "This effort must be based on India's religious values and intellect," he said.
He also asked India to take a leadership role in the world, spreading peace and sharing its 'dharma' with the rest of the world.
We gained independence to provide happiness, courage, security, peace, and respect to all citizens of our nation. Today, the world is struggling, and it is our responsibility to provide solutions and contribute to creating a world of happiness and peace based on our vision with spiritual principles," Bhagwat added.
Referring to global conflicts and environmental issues, he claimed that India is obligated to become a Vishwa Guru by leading, solving problems, and bringing global peace and prosperity.
While defining the term "Swatantra" (freedom), Bhagwat revealed that it unites "Swa" (self) and "Tantra" (rule), affirming that the country is free and ruled by its citizens.
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