'Many forces don't want India to become Vishwaguru':Bhagwat on I Day

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said that several forces were working to prevent India from becoming a "Vishwaguru" and called upon citizens to strengthen the country's independence by building a prosperous, secure and self-confident nation.
Addressing a gathering after hoisting the National Flag at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur on the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day, Bhagwat said the country's progress should be guided by the principles that shaped its civilisational identity."We must make the nation happy, prosperous and secure, and ensure that it makes its rightful contribution to the world. However, many people and forces are working against this goal and creating obstacles. Without abandoning our principles, we must face these challenges and work to make India a Vishwaguru—a guide to the world," he said.

#WATCH | Nagpur, Maharashtra | RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat says, "... While it is certain that our nation has attained independence and will remain independent, the task of making it prosperous, secure, and affluent lies ahead. If we wish to transform it into a nation that… https://t.co/tmaagcrp2L pic.twitter.com/dXQGnPfXJk

— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2026

Emphasising the significance of Independence Day, Bhagwat described the occasion as a moment of pride for every Indian and urged people to remember the sacrifices made during the freedom struggle.He said that if India's struggle for independence is traced back to the 1857 uprising, generations of Indians dedicated nearly 90 years to securing freedom from colonial rule.
The RSS chief said Independence Day should not be viewed merely as an annual celebration but as an opportunity to reflect on the country's journey and renew the collective commitment towards nation-building.His remarks came as the country marked the 80th anniversary of Independence with celebrations across states, including flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes and tributes to freedom fighters.
Bhagwat also underlined the importance of preserving India's values while confronting emerging challenges. He said the country's development should be rooted in its traditions and guided by a commitment to social harmony and national unity.According to agency reports,the flag-hoisting ceremony at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur was attended by RSS functionaries, volunteers and local residents. The event included patriotic programmes commemorating India's independence and honouring those who contributed to the country's freedom movement.India completed 80 years of independence on Saturday, with celebrations taking place across educational institutions, government offices and public spaces, reflecting the country's continued commitment to democracy, development and national progress.