New York, Aug 30: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that unity in diversity is intrinsic to Bharat’s identity and must be “celebrated, respected and accepted”.
Addressing more than 6,000 members of the Indian-American community and interfaith leaders at a mega gathering at the Infosys Theatre in New York’s Madison Square Garden on Saturday, Bhagwat called for greater respect for diversity and stronger support among communities.
Speaking at the ‘Universal Oneness Celebration’, organised by the American Hindus For Engagement and Dialogue (AHEAD) forum, Bhagwat drew a comparison between the concepts of pluralism in the United States and “unity in diversity” in Bharat.
“When we say America, one word that is often discussed is pluralism. When we say Bharat, another phrase is discussed: unity in diversity,” he said.
He said both unity and diversity were deeply rooted in Bharat’s cultural ethos, referring to Swami Vivekananda’s message that every nation has a mission and destiny to fulfil.
According to Bhagwat, Bharat’s role is to demonstrate and help the world realise the principle of unity in diversity.
“We are one, and due to this diversity, that oneness is decorated,” he said, stressing that diversity should be celebrated, respected and accepted while maintaining a sense of oneness.
The event brought together participants from 39 states and 853 cities across the US, including more than 250 students from universities and representatives of around 250 organisations.
Bhagwat also urged the Indian diaspora to fulfil its responsibilities towards the country where they live and work. Describing the US as their “karmabhoomi” (land of action), he said members of the diaspora should remain loyal to the country while carrying forward the values inherited from Bharat, their “janmabhoomi” (motherland).
“We live in America. We earn in America. So we are America, and we should behave true to America,” he said.
He emphasised that giving back to society was more important than merely accumulating wealth.
“We take from the world, and so we have to give back. How much we earn is not important, how much we distribute is important,” Bhagwat said.
The RSS chief said a nation was more than a geographical territory and argued that every nation had a distinct destiny. He called upon Bharatiyas to fulfil their responsibilities both in their karmabhoomi and towards their janmabhoomi.
He said the values of oneness and sustainable living associated with Bharat could offer support to a world facing multiple challenges.
Before Bhagwat’s keynote address, interfaith leaders highlighted the importance of unity, compassion, kindness and mutual support. Among the speakers were Rabbi Jacob Blumenthal, chief executive officer of the Rabbinical Assembly; Reverend Adriene Thorne, senior minister of New York’s historic Riverside Church; and Talib M Shareef, president and Imam of Masjid Muhammad in Washington, DC.
The programme also featured cultural performances by Indian-American children and artists representing traditions from different parts of India and the world. Performances showcasing cultures from Africa, Latin America, China, Europe and the Middle East reinforced the message of unity and diversity and the ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family.
Around 180 religious leaders from 30 countries also unveiled a five-point “One World: One Humanity Call to Action”. The initiative calls for communities to stand up for one another, build relationships before crises occur, serve together and take responsibility for the future.
The declaration stressed that when any community faces threats or dehumanisation, others should not remain silent, and called for stronger relationships across religious and cultural boundaries, particularly among young people.
Bhagwat concluded by reiterating the message of being “united in oneness and decorated by diversity”, saying that diversity is natural while unity is the truth that should guide human life.
