Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has urged Hindus to adopt traditional attire, refrain from speaking in English, and limit their travel to local areas. Speaking at the Hindu Religious Convention in Cherukolppuzha, Kerala, on February 6, Bhagwat emphasized aligning one’s lifestyle, language, and clothing with tradition, according to The News Minute.
The RSS leader proposed that Hindu families should conduct weekly discussions to assess whether their way of life adheres to traditional principles. Quoted by The Print, Bhagwat stated, “We should ponder if the language we speak, the places we travel to, and our clothes are aligned with tradition. We should travel to places in our own localities and visit our own brothers who need help. We should not speak in English. We should eat our local cuisine. While attending events, we should wear our own traditional clothing styles, not western outfits.”
Bhagwat made these remarks while inaugurating the Hindu Ekta Sammelan (Hindu Unity Convention), an event that was part of the 113th Hindu Religious Convention in Cherukolppuzha. He also addressed the fundamental values of Hinduism, highlighting that the religion is based on truth, kindness, hygiene, and meditation, as reported by The Hindu.
Caste System and Unity
Addressing the caste system, Bhagwat argued that caste hierarchy is not an inherent part of Hinduism. “The concept of caste hierarchy exists outside the core principles of Hinduism. Those who practice the faith should discard it without hesitation,” he reportedly said. Despite the historical association of Sanatana Dharma with caste structures, Bhagwat insisted that it fundamentally calls for unity among Hindus.
He further stressed the importance of Hindu unity for survival and strength but cautioned against the misuse of power. “Strength has its own fears. The way it’s used is important. It shouldn’t harm anyone else,” he remarked.
Discussing global religious conflicts, the RSS chief asserted that most disputes arise from people claiming the superiority of their own faiths. However, he maintained that Hinduism, through its adherence to Sanatana Dharma, is different in this regard, according to reports.