Mohan Bhagwat, the leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, delivered an inspiring speech at the Infosys Theatre in Madison Square Garden. He addressed a diverse crowd of over 6,000 Indian-Americans and interfaith leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity in India's DNA. He urged everyone to celebrate, respect, and accept this diversity.
Bhagwat highlighted the words often associated with America - pluralism, and with India - unity in diversity. He reminded the audience of Swami Vivekananda's message that every nation has a mission and destiny to fulfill. He stated that India's destiny is to spread the message of unity in diversity to the world.
He further explained that diversity should not only be celebrated and respected but also balanced with a feeling of oneness. He emphasized that this feeling is very real and should be kept in mind at all times. The event, 'Universal Oneness Celebration', brought together people from various states and cities in the US, including 250 students and 250 organizations.
Bhagwat urged the Indian diaspora to give back to their community and the world, emphasizing that we owe everything to someone else and must distribute our earnings. He also reminded the audience of their duty to their karmabhoomi, the place where they live and earn. He stated that if they have the urge to do something for their janmabhoomi, their birthplace, they should fulfill their duty to their karmabhoomi first.
He added that living by the values of oneness, which Bharat has imparted to them, is what their birthplace expects from them. Bhagwat stressed that a nation is more than just a geographical piece of land. He called on everyone to fulfill their duties in their karmabhoomi and janmabhoomi, which will be a boon for the world.
He reminded the audience that we must give sustenance and support to the world struggling with various issues. Before Bhagwat's speech, interfaith leaders spoke about the importance of oneness, unity, diversity, kindness, compassion, and helping one another. The event started with cultural performances by Indian-American children, showcasing the musical diversity of India and the world.
The performances highlighted different cultures from around the globe, delivering a message of unity and diversity. The audience cheered and applauded the performances, which included traditional songs and dances. The event also saw the announcement of a five-point 'call to action' by 180 religious leaders from 30 countries.
The call to action emphasized the need to stand for one another, build relationships, and take responsibility for the future. In his speech, Bhagwat reiterated the message of unity in diversity, stating that diversity is natural, and unity is truth. He urged everyone to understand and shape their lives according to this concept.
The event ended on a positive note, with the call to embrace diversity and spread the message of oneness to the world.