By Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has said that a lack of belongingness and concern for others is at the root of many problems facing the world. Emphasising the importance of compassion and collective responsibility, he said people need to move beyond the mindset of “me and mine” and develop a broader outlook in which everyone is treated as part of one family.
Bhagwat made these remarks on Saturday while addressing the silver jubilee celebrations of the social service organisation Samarpan Foundation in Nagpur. He said a sense of kinship helps people understand challenges around them and encourages them to work towards solutions that benefit everyone.
Referring to his recent visit to the United States for a conference, Bhagwat recalled a statement made by a speaker from Nigeria. The speaker had observed that global peace would remain out of reach as long as people continued to prioritise only themselves and their immediate interests.
Quoting the observation, Bhagwat said the idea of moving beyond “me and mine” was essential for ensuring the welfare of all. He stressed that people should wish for others to lead happy and fulfilling lives in the same way they wish for themselves.
The RSS chief also highlighted compassion as a fundamental human quality, saying it is what distinguishes human beings from animals. According to him, sensitivity towards others encourages people to look beyond their personal needs and take responsibility for the well-being of those around them.
Speaking about the importance of social service, Bhagwat said it should not be undertaken for recognition or public attention. Instead, genuine service should be carried out quietly, consistently and without expecting anything in return.
Recalling the COVID-19 pandemic, he shared an example of how social organisations and volunteers stepped forward to help people during the crisis. He said that when he asked RSS workers in Nagpur about the service activities carried out during that period, he was informed that around 40 initiatives had been undertaken within just two months. Samarpan Foundation was among the organisations involved in these efforts.
Bhagwat further said that service is not merely a response to suffering but an enduring human instinct. Even in a world where nobody faced hardship, he believed people would still find ways to help and serve others.
Reiterating his message, he said developing a sense of belongingness towards everyone was essential for addressing social challenges. Moving beyond individual interests and embracing the well-being of others, he added, could help create a more compassionate and harmonious society.
