Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, addressed the inaugural function of the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, a prestigious literary event being held in Delhi. The occasion holds special significance as it coincides with two landmark milestones: the 350th year of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). In his address, PM Modi emphasized the profound influence of the RSS in shaping his life and inspiring countless others to dedicate themselves to the service of the nation.
RSS: A Legacy of Inspiration and Nation-Building
Reflecting on the centenary of the RSS, PM Modi expressed pride in the organization's origins in Maharashtra, a land known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. He noted that the RSS, founded 100 years ago by a remarkable Marathi-speaking individual, Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, has grown into a vast banyan tree, nurturing generations of Indians with a sense of duty and patriotism.
"The RSS has inspired lakhs of people, including me, to live for the country. It is because of the Sangh that I got the privilege of connecting with the Marathi language and Marathi traditions," the Prime Minister said. He highlighted the RSS's role in preserving and propagating India's great traditions and culture through its "Sanskar Yagya," a continuous effort to instill values in the younger generation.
Celebrating India's Linguistic Unity
PM Modi also spoke about the unity and diversity of Indian languages, emphasizing that they have always enriched one another. He rejected attempts to create divisions based on linguistic differences, stating, "There has never been any animosity among Indian languages. Languages have always influenced and enriched each other."
His remarks come at a time when debates around language and education policies have taken center stage in national discourse. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin recently reiterated his opposition to the National Education Policy (NEP), calling it an attempt to impose a three-language formula across the country. In this context, PM Modi's message of linguistic harmony and mutual respect assumes greater significance.
"It is our social responsibility to distance ourselves from these misconceptions and embrace and enrich all languages," the Prime Minister asserted, underscoring the need to celebrate India's linguistic diversity as a source of strength rather than division.
Marathi: A Language of Valor and Sensitivity
Praising the Marathi language, PM Modi described it as a "complete language" that embodies bravery, courage, beauty, sensitivity, and equality. He acknowledged its rich literary tradition and its ability to reflect the essence of Maharashtra's cultural and historical legacy. The Prime Minister's tribute to Marathi resonated deeply with the audience, as the Sammelan itself is a celebration of Marathi literature and its contributions to Indian culture.
A Tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
The event also served as a tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary Maratha warrior king whose 350th coronation anniversary is being celebrated this year. PM Modi drew parallels between Shivaji's vision of Swarajya (self-rule) and the RSS's mission of fostering a sense of national pride and self-reliance among Indians. He highlighted how Shivaji's legacy continues to inspire generations, much like the RSS's century-long journey of service and dedication.
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