Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat called for the Hindu community to break free from the chains of caste-based discrimination. Speaking at a public event, he championed the mantra of “Ek Mandir, Ek Kuaan, Ek Shamshan” — one temple, one well, one cremation ground — a vision for unity that might just shake the foundations of a centuries-old social hierarchy.
While the message sounds utopian, critics were quick to raise eyebrows and ask the uncomfortable question: If casteism wasn’t institutionalised by centuries of tradition, then what exactly are we trying to fix here?
Here’s how the story unfolds:
1. Mohan Bhagwat’s message hits at the core of caste division.
The RSS chief didn’t mince words. His call to action was directed straight at those who continue to fuel segregation within the Hindu community — ironically, often in the name of religion itself. The idea is simple: if all castes worship in the same temple, draw water from the same well, and are cremated in the same ground, maybe — just maybe — equality will stop being a speech-day slogan.
2. A spiritual appeal… but with socio-political implications.
This is not the first time Bhagwat has made remarks challenging casteism, but this one comes at a particularly interesting time, with social justice and electoral arithmetic becoming increasingly inseparable. Is this spiritual wisdom or smart politics wrapped in saffron robes? You decide.
3. Critics question the implementation, not the intent.
Social reformers and political observers have praised the sentiment but questioned the delivery. If such ideals were truly adopted by the wider Sangh Parivar and mainstream right-wing organizations, India’s social fabric might see genuine change. Until then, it’s a compelling speech with miles to go.
4. The historical irony isn’t lost on anyone.
Coming from the head of an organisation that’s often accused of upholding orthodox Hindu practices, the statement is rich in irony. But perhaps it signals an ideological shift—or at least a cosmetic PR move to shed the elitist tag.
5. The internet reacts — some cheer, some jeer.
As expected, social media lit up. Some hailed it as a long-overdue introspection. Others saw it as election-year rhetoric. Either way, Bhagwat has succeeded in stirring conversation on an issue that most politicians would rather sweep under the prayer rug.
Whether or not these words translate into action, one thing is clear — caste divisions, deeply ingrained in cultural habits, won’t disappear overnight. But a call from the top is at least a start… assuming it doesn’t end as just another headline.