MOHAN BHAGWAT: SELF INTEREST, HEGEMONY AND THE PATH OF GLOBAL PEACE ---DEVANAND SINGH

MOHAN BHAGWAT: SELF INTEREST, HEGEMONY AND THE PATH OF GLOBAL PEACE ---DEVANAND SINGH

21-MARCH-ENG 13

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA----------------------------The statement by Mohan Bhagwat, Chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)—that "the root cause of conflicts in the world is the desire for self-interest and hegemony"—is not merely a philosophical notion, but also a precise analysis of the current global landscape. Today, as wars, religious tensions, economic rivalries, and the struggle for political dominance persist across various parts of the world, the question becomes all the more pertinent: why, despite such immense progress, has human civilization failed to discover a sustainable path to peace?

A glance at history reveals that the fundamental causes underlying most conflicts have consistently been the desire for control over resources, the urge to establish ideological supremacy, or the ambition for territorial expansion. Whether one looks at the expansion of ancient empires, the exploitation of the colonial era, or the geopolitical tensions of modern times, the spirit of self-interest and hegemony is conspicuously evident everywhere. Bhagwat’s observation—that despite the experimentation with various ideologies over the past 2,000 years, the world has yet to find a lasting solution—underscores this historical reality.

Issues such as religious intolerance and forced conversions continue to serve as triggers for conflict in many regions today. A mindset rooted in notions of "superiority" and "inferiority" fractures society, giving rise to confrontation rather than dialogue. In this context, Bhagwat’s call to return to the core tenets of Indian philosophy—specifically the idea that "all beings are interconnected and one"—appears profoundly significant. This perspective inherent in Indian culture—encapsulated in the maxim *Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam* (The World is One Family)—is not merely an ideal; it can also serve as a practical foundation for achieving global peace.

However, it is equally essential to recognize that philosophical concepts alone are insufficient. The true challenge lies in translating these ideas into practice. Bhagwat rightly asserted that *Dharma* (righteousness/duty) cannot remain confined solely to scriptural texts; rather, it must be reflected in an individual's conduct. In today's world, a palpable deficit of ethics and discipline is clearly discernible—whether in the realms of politics, business, or social life. Until individuals rise above their personal self-interest to consider the collective good, it remains difficult to expect any significant transformation.

Modern science, too, has begun to acknowledge the concept of interconnectedness—whether in the context of the environment or the global economy. Issues such as climate change, pandemics, and economic crises demonstrate that no nation or society can exist in complete isolation. In this context, Bhagwat’s assertion that "the world needs harmony, not conflict" serves as a pragmatic warning.

However, his view that "only India can put an end to wars" is open to debate. While this statement is undoubtedly inspiring, it would be more appropriate to interpret it as a responsibility rather than as the sole solution. India’s historical and cultural heritage certainly espouses the principles of peace, coexistence, and balance; yet, achieving global peace requires the collective commitment of all nations. Placing the entire burden of responsibility upon a single nation would be unrealistic.

India’s role in this regard can certainly be pivotal—as a nation that exemplifies unity in diversity and has, over centuries, strived to foster coexistence among various religions, cultures, and ideologies. However, to fulfill this role, India must first further strengthen within its own borders the very values ​​it seeks to impart to the world. Without internal social harmony, economic equity, and a just system, no nation can effectively lay claim to global leadership.

Ultimately, Bhagwat’s views compel us to reflect on whether we genuinely desire peace, or if we are merely feigning peace while prioritizing the protection of our own self-interests. While it may not be entirely possible to eradicate the impulses of self-interest and dominance, it is certainly possible to temper them and balance them against the collective good.

What the world needs today is a perspective that fosters cooperation over competition, prioritizes unity over division, and values ​​ethics over power. If human society makes a sincere effort in this direction, the day may not be far when harmony and balance take the place of conflict.