RSS Encourages Indian Diaspora to be Loyal and Contribute to Society
Washington: Dattatreya Hosabale, the General Secretary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), recently emphasized the importance of the Indian diaspora being loyal to their host country. He stated that they should strive to be exemplary citizens and show how Hindus can positively influence local communities.
During his visit to the United States, Hosabale engaged in discussions with various American groups to clear up misunderstandings about the RSS, which he believes stem from years of negative portrayal against the organization. “For decades, we have operated quietly, thinking that our actions would speak for us. Now, we believe it’s important to share our message verbally,” he explained in an interview.
Prior to arriving in the US, Hosabale visited the UK, where he met with academics, policy makers, and members of the Indian community to promote the RSS as it celebrates its centenary this year.
Hosabale noted that many people in Western countries incorrectly label the RSS as a Hindu supremacist group. He stated, “This misinformation has circulated for a long time. There is a need to confront these misconceptions.” The organization is focused on correcting these narratives about India and Hindu culture.
“The story of India and Hindu culture has been misrepresented for many years, both within and outside the country,” he said. “It’s crucial for us to rectify this.”
In his message to the Indian community in the US, Hosabale urged them to integrate by working hard and contributing to the local society. “Indians living here should pledge their loyalty to this country, as it is here that they earn their living,” he added. He highlighted that the Indian diaspora can serve as a model for positivity and community involvement.
Drawing a parallel, he mentioned how the Jewish community has made significant contributions to American society while maintaining strong cultural ties to their origins.
The RSS, established in September 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, aims to strengthen Hindu society through a volunteer-based approach. Currently, the organization conducts over 83,000 daily meetings, known as shakhas, focused on teamwork, character building, and community engagement.
Hosabale spoke at the New India Conference organized by the Hudson Institute and participated in the Global Science Innovation Forum at Stanford University. His visit has been meaningful, allowing him to address both the Indian community and local opinion leaders to better communicate the positive contributions of the RSS over the past century.
Moreover, he observed that while there are some gaps in understanding about the RSS among Americans, there is also a growing awareness, particularly in academic circles. “Many have started to see the truth about the RSS, thanks to scholars who have taken an interest in our work,” he explained.
Additionally, Hosabale highlighted that younger generations of Indian Americans are becoming more involved in Hindu organizations on their college campuses, showing a renewed interest in cultural and spiritual activities, including yoga and music.
Overall, Hosabale’s visit aimed to strengthen ties between the Indian diaspora and their local communities, fostering a sense of loyalty and collaboration.
