Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday held an interaction meeting with prominent citizens from the Saurashtra–Kutch region in Rajkot.

The programme was organised at Sevabharti Bhavan, where leading personalities from various fields, including industry, education, healthcare, law and social service, were present.

Addressing the gathering, Bhagwat said that no individual should be harmed in the name of national interest. “Working for the nation is everyone’s responsibility, and the Sangh stands with all those who dedicate themselves to such service,” he said.

Referring to Hindu society, he described it as the largest social collective in the country. Despite neglect, opposition and restrictions over the years, he said the Sangh’s acceptance has grown due to the support and blessings of Hindu society.

He added that individuals working for the nation—whether formally associated with the RSS or not—are considered volunteers of the Sangh.

During his address, Bhagwat said efforts to understand the Sangh are continuously underway, and the organisation itself remains in a constant process of introspection. “The Sangh cannot be compared with any other organisation. Even other countries are studying its functioning today,” he said.

He explained that RSS volunteers work not only within the organisation but also across different sectors of society. “The Sangh does not control anyone, nor does it wish to. Its functioning is based on values of simplicity, affection and mutual trust,” he said, adding that volunteers are trained through daily shakhas and then work independently according to their conscience.

Clarifying what the Sangh is not, Bhagwat said the organisation was not formed as a reaction, opposition or competitor to any entity. During the freedom struggle, he said, there was coordination among diverse ideologies working for national welfare.

Referring to the life of RSS founder Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, Bhagwat said Hedgewar had resolved to dedicate his life solely to the nation. “While many leaders were fighting for independence, Dr Hedgewar focused on building a united, self-respecting and strong society so that India would never again fall into slavery,” he said.

Explaining the concept of Hindutva, Bhagwat said it is a way of life. “Hindu denotes values and character, which represent the responsible society of India,” he said.

He further stated that while many nations pursue power for dominance, India follows the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam even after becoming strong. “This spirit makes India capable of guiding the world as a global teacher,” he said.

On the ideological position of the Sangh, Bhagwat said the organisation had decided from its inception to stay away from vote-bank politics. “The Sangh has no political affiliation. It is self-reliant in manpower and resources and continues to function with discipline, simplicity and dedication,” he said.

He noted that the Sangh still aims to expand shakhas to every village and town and strengthen grassroots-level work.

Speaking on social values, Bhagwat said there are far more positive developments in society than what is usually reflected in the media. He said the Sangh focuses on connecting and strengthening socially responsible individuals to create an environment guided by positive values.

A question-and-answer session was also held during the programme. Responding to a query on public communication, Bhagwat said leaders must develop the ability to listen patiently and guide responsibly in the national interest.

On the use of social media, he said it should remain a tool and not become a controlling force. “We must use social media for the benefit of the nation, not allow it to dominate us,” he said.

Speaking on globalisation, Bhagwat said India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam represents true globalisation. “Unlike market-driven globalisation, India believes in the concept of a global family,” he said.

On social service and political calculations, he said many people serve society without any political ambition and such individuals should serve as role models.

Responding to a question on communal tensions in neighbouring countries, Bhagwat said attempts are being made there to reinforce the idea that Hindus and Muslims cannot coexist. “It is essential that such thinking does not spread in India, and social awareness is the key,” he said.

On corruption, he stated that corruption originates in mindset. “If individuals become value-oriented and cultured, corruption can be eliminated. Culture alone can restrain corruption,” he added.

A significant number of women participated in the programme and expressed their commitment towards women empowerment and social awakening.

Among those present were RSS Western Region Sah-Sanchalak Jayantibhai Bhadesiya, Saurashtra Province Sanghachalak Mukeshbhai Malkan, along with prominent businessmen, doctors, lawyers, educationists, social leaders and representatives of service organisations from the Saurashtra–Kutch region.