Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an inspiring speech at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) event, where he likened the organization to a “vat vriksha” or banyan tree, highlighting its pivotal role in preserving and passing on India’s rich cultural heritage to future generations. Here are five key takeaways from his address:
Celebrating a Century of Legacy
Addressing the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, PM Modi expressed pride in the roots of the RSS, crediting a Marathi-speaking individual from Maharashtra for planting the seeds of the organization a century ago. He commended the growth and resilience of the RSS, likening it to a flourishing banyan tree that has stood the test of time. This analogy symbolized the deep-rooted traditions and values that the RSS embodies, serving as a guiding force for millions of individuals, including the Prime Minister himself.
Embracing Linguistic Diversity
Modi emphasized the importance of linguistic unity, debunking myths of language-based hostilities by showcasing India’s diverse linguistic heritage as a unifying force. He celebrated Marathi as a language that embodies bravery, courage, beauty, sensitivity, and equality, underscoring the power of language in shaping national identity and fostering cultural pride. The Prime Minister’s remarks resonated with the essence of inclusivity and mutual enrichment that defines India’s linguistic landscape, emphasizing the need to transcend linguistic barriers and embrace the richness of all languages.
In response to recent debates surrounding the National Education Policy (NEP) and the three-language formula, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of its civilizational ethos. He underscored the significance of continuous evolution, openness to new ideas, and adaptability as key factors that have sustained India as one of the world’s oldest living civilizations. The Prime Minister’s call to embrace change while honoring linguistic plurality echoed a spirit of unity amidst diversity, reinforcing the interconnectedness of India’s linguistic tapestry with its cultural resilience.
As the three-day Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan unfolded in the national capital after a 71-year hiatus, Modi’s reflections on the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s coronation and the RSS’s centenary celebrations added a layer of historical significance to the event. The recognition of Marathi as a classical language further underscored the cultural richness and intellectual depth embedded in India’s linguistic traditions. By commemorating these milestones in a shared space of cultural exchange and literary celebration, the Prime Minister underscored the enduring legacy of linguistic heritage as a catalyst for social cohesion and national pride.
In conclusion, PM Modi’s poignant remarks at the RSS event encapsulated a narrative of cultural continuity, linguistic harmony, and national unity, encapsulating the essence of India’s rich tapestry of languages and traditions. His vision for an inclusive society that embraces linguistic diversity as a strength rather than a division underscored a commitment to fostering a sense of collective identity rooted in shared heritage and mutual respect. As India embarks on a journey of cultural renewal and linguistic enrichment, Modi’s words serve as a beacon of inspiration for a nation that thrives on the harmonious coexistence of its myriad languages, cultures, and traditions.
