RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, during his visit to Canada, praised India’s tradition of giving shelter to people facing persecution and said the country has continued to accept different communities despite its long and complex history.
Speaking at a Hindu community event in Toronto, Bhagwat said India has welcomed people from different parts of the world and allowed them to maintain their religious and cultural identities. He pointed to the presence of Muslims, Christians, Jews and Parsis in India as examples of the country’s diversity.
“Many came to Bharat from outside as aggressors, but they still thrive there,” Bhagwat said, according to reports. He added that these communities are now part of India and continue to preserve their traditions.
Bhagwat also said that India has provided asylum to people who were persecuted in different parts of the world. He presented this approach as part of what he described as India’s long-standing cultural values of tolerance, acceptance and helping those in need.
His comments came during his ongoing overseas visit, which has included engagements with members of the Indian and Hindu diaspora in North America. In his speeches, Bhagwat has repeatedly highlighted the idea of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, or the belief that the world is one family.
He said people may differ in their appearance, lifestyles and backgrounds, but they remain connected at a deeper level. According to Bhagwat, this understanding encourages people to serve others and work for the welfare of society.
The RSS chief also spoke about India’s global position and the idea of the country becoming a “Vishwaguru”. He said India’s influence should not simply be measured by military or economic strength. Instead, he argued that the country earned respect by serving humanity and following its traditional values.
Bhagwat further said that diversity should not be viewed as a threat to unity. He described diversity as an important part of India’s civilisational identity and said Hindu philosophy teaches people to recognise unity among different forms of life.
His remarks came at a time when India-Canada relations are showing signs of improvement after years of diplomatic tensions. The event also featured former Canadian defence minister and Alberta premier Jason Kenney, who spoke about renewed momentum in ties between the two countries.
The gathering saw enthusiastic support from sections of the Indian diaspora, with chants of “Modi, Modi” reported during the programme. Kenney also referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to Canada later this year.
Bhagwat’s visit and remarks have drawn attention in both countries, particularly because of his position as head of the RSS and his message to the Indian diaspora about India’s cultural identity, diversity and responsibilities abroad.
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