Mohan Bhagwat warned that globalization, if left untranslated, undermines indigenous sentiments and urged authors to protect indigenous expressions in the global context to prevent emotional and cultural dilution.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief (sarsanghchalak) Mohan Bhagwat addressed authors and participants at the Nagpur Book Fair on Saturday (November 29), emphasizing human control over technology, true nationalism rooted in the Indian ethos, and cultural preservation amidst global flux.
Humans must remain masters of AI
Mohan Bhagwat warned against becoming “machines ourselves” due to the rise of AI, stressing that technology cannot be stopped but must contribute to the betterment of humanity. “We remain owners and set limits. We use our phones as a tool and don’t let them use us,” he said, citing the example of addiction, where people endure hours without their devices. True AI challenges the emotions and demands provision for a balanced life that encompasses body, mind, intellect, and soul.
Knowledge: Information and true wisdom
Mohan Bhagwat defined knowledge as both raw data and deep understanding, or “body,” and wanted Indian languages to convey precise emotions that English or foreign languages lack. Globalization dilutes emotions if not translated, and authors risk cultural loss as they must preserve native expressions.
Reject Western nationalism and strive for harmony
Mr. Bhagwat clarified that the RSS’s ‘rashtravado’ is different from the ego-driven aggressive Western ‘nationalism’ that fuels world wars. India’s ‘Rashtra’ was born out of the dissolution of the ego and promoted unity without conflict. “Beyond religion, language, and customs, we are brothers and sisters as sons of Bharat Mata,” he says, promoting cooperation and overcoming conflicts.
Dispelling the illusion of globalization
Today’s “globalization” is a myth amidst the war between Ukraine and Russia, tensions between Hamas and Israel, and the Cold War between the United States and China. The inventors admitted in 2005 that they couldn’t fit everything into one mold. True globalization is consistent with a cultural tradition of mutual welfare and encourages preparation for Swadeshi.
Educational reform and guidance for Generation Z
Mr. Bhagwat praised continuing education updates on accessibility and affordability, but called for continued evaluation. To young people: Learn the true history of your country from primary sources, not Wikipedia. Traditions evolve through scrutiny, avoiding blind acceptance.
