India, a land of unparalleled diversity, stands as a tribute to the coexistence of myriad faiths, cultures, and traditions. In this intricate mosaic, unity and harmony have always been the threads that hold us together. Recently, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat’s statement advocating for inclusivity and cautioning against the escalation of temple-mosque disputes has emerged as a crucial reminder of our collective responsibility to uphold these values. His words are not only timely but also visionary, urging India to rise above divisive narratives and embrace its destiny as a global leader of peace and coexistence.
Mohan Bhagwat’s message is profound. While acknowledging the significance of the Ram Mandir as a unifying symbol for Hindus, he unequivocally rejected the idea of exploiting other temple-mosque disputes for personal or political gain. By stating that “India must show the world how to live together,” Bhagwat reinforces the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. This philosophy has been the cornerstone of India’s spiritual and cultural identity for centuries, and it is a message the world desperately needs today.
His caution against “creating leaders of Hindus” by inciting disputes underscores the need for mature, responsible leadership that prioritizes unity over division. At a time when global headlines are dominated by religious conflicts, Bhagwat’s emphasis on harmony sends a powerful signal that India, as the world’s largest democracy, must lead by example.
In this context, the recent controversy surrounding the Ajmer Sharif Dargah—a site revered by millions of devotees across faiths—serves as a microcosm of the challenges India faces. Allegations by groups like the Hindu Sena, and individual as history sheeter Vishnu Gupta seeking to disrupt the sanctity of this centuries-old spiritual haven, reflect a worrying trend of politicizing sacred spaces.
Ajmer Sharif, the resting place of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty (r.a.), known as Gharib Nawaz (Benefactor of the Poor), has long been a symbol of inclusivity and compassion. It attracts pilgrims from all walks of life, irrespective of religion or caste. Any attempt to disturb the harmony of such places threatens not only their spiritual essence but also India’s broader image as a nation of unity in diversity.
As Gaddi Nashin of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, I must emphasize that such controversies distract from pressing national priorities like education, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development. They also erode the trust and goodwill that India has cultivated globally as a shining luminary of interfaith harmony.
India’s history is replete with examples of coexistence. Even in the tumultuous times of Bahadur Shah Zafar, steps were taken to bridge communal divides.
Mohan Bhagwat’s acknowledgment of historical complexities, including the British role in fostering divisions, highlights the importance of learning from the past. The partition of India in 1947 was a painful reminder of what happens when divisive narratives overshadow shared heritage. Today, as the world looks to India for leadership, we must ensure that we stand out as torch bearers of Unity, Peace and Harmony not letting individuals with likes of Vishnu Gupta derail the global vision of India and united stand of 1.4 billion Indians towards progress and developed Bharat.
Bhagwat’s vision of India as a Vishwaguru is not merely aspirational; it is achievable. However, this status demands that we embody the values we preach. Unity in diversity is not just a slogan—it is a spiritual principle deeply rooted in India’s ethos. The teachings of saints like Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, Guru Nanak, Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda, and Mahatma Gandhi remind us that true leadership lies in inclusivity and compassion.
As a global leader, India must address not only its internal challenges but also offer solutions to a world grappling with religious intolerance, climate change, and socio-economic inequalities. Our pluralistic society, if nurtured wisely, can serve as a model for global peace and sustainability.
From a spiritual perspective, unity transcends mere coexistence. Khawaja Gharib Nawaz spiritual teachings, particularly the concept of Wahdat al-Wujud (Unity of Existence), emphasize that all creation emanates from the same Divine source which also resonates with the foundational aspect of Sanatan Dharma as Adi Shankaracharya teachings of non duality notions of Advaita and Vedanta. When we recognize this unity, divisive forces lose their power, and we align ourselves with the higher purpose of collective well-being.
On a practical level, unity fosters social stability and economic progress. A divided society cannot achieve its full potential. By prioritizing harmony, we create an environment where innovation, collaboration, and development can thrive.
To realize Mohan Bhagwat’s vision, we must ensure that places of worship and sacred spiritual practices, like Ajmer Sharif, remain sanctuaries of peace and inclusivity. Facilitate conversations that build understanding and trust among communities. Integrate the teachings of unity and coexistence into educational curriculum. Uphold the principles of equality and secularism enshrined in India’s Constitution. Support initiatives that promote communal harmony at the local level.
India’s destiny as a global leader depends on its ability to navigate these challenges with wisdom and compassion. Bhagwat’s statement is a timely reminder that unity is both a moral imperative and a practical necessity. By rejecting divisive narratives and embracing our shared heritage, we can build an India that fulfills its role as a Vishwaguru.
As we move forward, let us draw inspiration from the timeless teachings of our spiritual luminaries. May we rise above differences and work together to create a nation—and a world—where peace, love, and justice prevail.
Haji Syed Salman Chishty
Gaddi Nashin, Dargah Ajmer Sharif
Chairman, Chishty Foundation
