In his annual speech on Vijayadashmi, which happens to be the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s foundation day, Bhagwat referred to the coming Lok Sabha polls and said people should choose the “best available option” for guaranteeing stability – something immediately interpreted as a pitch for BJP.His denunciation of cultural Marxism and the “woke culture” marked perhaps the first assault by an influential Indian figure on the growing influence of what many quarters call hardline liberalism which has upended mainstream understanding of society and politics.”These destructive forces call themselves ‘woke’, and claim to be working for some lofty goals, but their real goals are to disrupt orderliness in the world,” Bhagwat said.
Besides its content, Bhagwat’s assault on “wokes” – a derivative of the African American slang for “awake” or people liberated from traditional cultural influences – appears significant also because of its timing. It coincided with signs of pushback against the “cultural Marxists”, with their silence, even support, on some prominent cases like Hamas’ terror attack on Israel, giving a fillip to the resistance.
In what was seen as an appeal to ensure BJP’s electoral victory, Bhagwat said, “People of the country should vote for the best available option to bolster India’s unity and integrity. There will be political mudslinging and attempts to poach candidates, but don’t be swayed by provocations or fall prey to machinations of divisive elements. Weigh your options judiciously. Cast your vote keeping in mind the nation’s unity, integrity, identity and development. Voting is our national duty and swayamsevaks will work hard to motivate people to exercise their duty.”
Announcing the consecration of Lord Ram’s idol at Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, Bhagwat said only a limited number of people would be present on the momentous occasion due to security reasons but a similar exercise should be replicated across the country with religious fervour. “This will awaken Ram in every citizen,” he said.
The RSS sarsanghchalak also pointed to the need to bridge the divide in the country. “This should not be construed as a call for an image-building exercise by any political party. India is a democracy, and everyone enjoys equal rights. There is a need to set aside politics and bring the entire society together. This does not mean we will be submitting to anyone,” he said.
Bhagwat said it was often seen that a small incident got exaggerated and publicised in a dramatic manner. “Statements expressing concern and warning are elicited from within the country and abroad. ‘Tool kits’ that incite violence are activated and mutual suspicion and hatred are further intensified. All those who seek and favour harmony in society need to be wary of these nefarious games,” he added.
Referring to Babasaheb Ambedkar’s twin speeches in the Constituent Assembly, Bhagwat exhorted people to imbibe his thoughts on the nation.
Watch RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat attacks ‘Wokes’, says they’re opposed to all order and morality