What Does RSS Mean by Hindu? Hindu as a Cultural and Way of Life Concept

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh clarifies that it is not a religious organisation in the conventional sense. When RSS uses the word “Hindu”, it does not refer to any specific form of worship, religious sect, or ritual practice.

According to RSS, Hindu signifies a distinct view of life and a way of living that has evolved in Bharat over thousands of years. This view of life is inclusive, holistic, and rooted in cultural continuity rather than religious uniformity.

RSS points out that Hindu thought recognises that truth is one, though it may be expressed and understood in different ways. There can be many paths to realise truth, and all such paths are considered valid. Diversity of belief is therefore not seen as a contradiction, but as a natural expression of the same underlying reality.

Hindu as a Cultural Identity

RSS explains that Hindu identity is cultural rather than sectarian. Anyone who accepts Bharat as their motherland, regards its history as their own, and lives by the values that have shaped its civilisation is considered part of this cultural identity.

This understanding does not depend on the mode of worship or the name by which one addresses the divine. What matters is acceptance of the shared cultural heritage and commitment to the values that sustain society.

The Sangh emphasises that this cultural identity promotes unity in diversity. It does not demand uniformity of belief, nor does it seek to erase differences. Instead, it encourages mutual respect and harmony among people with varied practices and philosophies.

Understanding the Concept of Hindu Rashtra

RSS uses the term Hindu Rashtra to describe a nation defined by cultural unity rather than religious rule. In this view, the nation is not merely a political structure governed by the state, but a living society shaped by common values and traditions.

Hindu Rashtra, as explained by RSS, does not exclude or discriminate against anyone on the basis of religion. It refers to the collective identity of a society that has evolved on spiritual foundations and shared cultural experiences.

The Sangh maintains that this concept is not opposed to any religion or belief system. Instead, it seeks to ensure that the cultural values which have guided society for centuries continue to influence national life.

Inclusiveness at the Core

RSS states that the Hindu way of life has never been based on intolerance or exclusion. It has always allowed individuals to follow their own paths while remaining connected to a common cultural framework.

This inclusive understanding forms the basis of RSS’s social outlook. By emphasising cultural unity over religious division, the Sangh seeks to strengthen social harmony and national integration.

This explanation of Hindu as a way of life helps clarify RSS’s cultural perspective and its emphasis on unity without uniformity.