HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Sept 1: Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has emphasised the importance of using the term ‘Bharat’ instead of ‘India’. He urged people to adopt ‘Bharat’ in both spoken and written language.
Speaking at a program organised by the Sakal Jain Samaj at Bhagwan Mahavir Dharmasthal in Fancy Bazar, Guwahati, Bhagwat highlighted that the name of the country has been ‘Bharat’ since ancient times. He emphasised the continuity of the name despite changes in governance and language.
“Our country is Bharat, and we must cease using the word ‘India’ and instead use ‘Bharat’ in our daily lives. We should call our country Bharat and educate others about it,” Bhagwat asserted.
He highlighted India’s historical role as a centre of knowledge and enlightenment, emphasising its unifying power. According to Bhagwat, India, now known as Bharat, plays a crucial role in the world and has connected it through practices like yoga.
Bhagwat acknowledged the British colonial impact on India’s education system and praised Mahatma Gandhi for achieving freedom through these traditional methods and family rituals.
Commenting on the New Education Policy, Bhagwat noted that it aims to instill a sense of Indianness among children. He stressed the importance of family values and urged parents to pass on Indian culture and traditions to their children.
Acharya Pramukh Sagar Ji Maharaj, in his address, emphasised the use of ‘Bharat’ in daily life and suggested observing an ‘International Forgiveness Day’ during the last week of September, akin to International Yoga Day. He also encouraged people to greet each other with ‘Jai Bharat’ and called for the preservation of Surya Pahar in Goalpara, a symbol of Hindutva.
Mohan Bhagwat assured that he would convey Maharaj’s suggestions to the government, emphasising that Maharaj’s words were orders for him.
The program began with Acharya Pramukh Sagar Ji Maharaj felicitating Mohan Bhagwat. Mahavir Jain, president of Shree Digambar Jain Panchayat, Guwahati, highlighted the potential for progress in Assam if roads were constructed along both banks of the Brahmaputra River, from Dhubri to Sadiya.
It’s important to note that the Jain community’s Chaturmas is currently underway at Lord Mahavir Dharmasthala, continuing until Diwali.
