Society needs to be awakened to combat divisive forces : RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Addressing the annual Vijayadashmi rally, Bhagwat said that Hindu culture and values are all inclusive, and these will have to be inculcated again.

He said that the conscience of the people will have to be touched to eliminate caste and religion based divides. He said that this can be achieved by interacting personally so as to remove feelings of distrust.

Bhagwat, who spoke extensively about Hindu culture, said efforts are being made by RSS volunteers to unite the people and develop feelings of patriotism.

These efforts include Jammu and Kashmir, where people are reaping benefits of the removal of Article 370.

The efforts to terrorise people from across the border will have to be controlled, he said.

Effective control over drug trafficking and addiction has to be achieved, he said.

He emphasised that the young generation must make an effort to understand the history, culture and values of the nation.

He pointed out that family members also have a major role in inculcating these values by first correcting their own behaviour. The divisive forces using methods like drugs to divert the attention of the young generation must be controlled, he emphasized.

"Our culture is thinking of the welfare of all. Though the method of performing religious rituals may be different, Hindu culture is philosophical and has a spiritual base", he said.

The message should be understood and disseminated by the young generation.

"Apart from protecting our own culture and values, threats from neighbours cannot be overlooked, which include Pakistan, China and now Taliban," he said.

He further appealed to the Hindus to strengthen themselves and spread the message of all inclusiveness, irrespective of religion or caste.