RSS Chief Claims Hindu Identity in Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian Ideology

In a recent address in Bengaluru, Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), asserted that a “Hindu rashtra” exists in Tamil Nadu, despite the state’s reputation as a stronghold of non-Hindutva politics. Speaking at the conclusion of a two-day lecture series celebrating the centenary of the RSS, Bhagwat characterized Dravidian ideology as a mere political construct.

Bhagwat questioned the essence of Dravidian identity, stating, “What is a Dravidian idea? There are Dravidian parties, and a political atmosphere has been created based on adherence to a political ideology.” He suggested that cultural and religious practices in Tamil Nadu indicate a deeper connection to Hindu identity.

Citing local customs, he remarked, “Don’t they go to temples? Don’t they celebrate Pongal for three days, including one dedicated to cows?” He further claimed that by promoting the idea of equality among religions, Dravidian followers implicitly embrace their Hindu roots. “Once they admit that, then they are all Hindus,” he stated.

During the discussion, Bhagwat encouraged members of the Sangh Parivar to view those who adhere to Dravidian ideology as Hindus. “Once you look at them as Hindus, you will understand them better,” he explained. He criticized Dravidian political parties for distancing themselves from Hinduism, asserting that even if they publicly deny their Hindu identity, they harbor an awareness of it internally.

The RSS leader also referenced the significance of Carnatic music within Tamil culture as further evidence of Hindu influence. He recounted an anecdote involving a prominent Dravidian leader who allegedly requested the cessation of bhajan chants at a temple, claiming that the leader feared he would become a devotee if he heard them.

Beyond his comments on cultural identity, Bhagwat also addressed dietary practices in India, advocating for vegetarianism as a means to reduce beef exports. “Why should meat even be exported? This is a question raised by many people in Bharat. Vegetarianism must be projected in government policies,” he said, while acknowledging the challenge of changing dietary habits in a nation where approximately 72% of the Hindu population consumes meat.

He reassured his audience that Indian authorities only export buffalo meat, citing a central government minister who stated that licenses would be revoked if cow meat was identified in exports.

In addition to cultural and dietary issues, Bhagwat expressed concerns regarding China’s intentions toward India. He emphasized the necessity for a “measured” foreign policy to safeguard India’s sovereignty. “A rising Bharat is not in the interest of China, which will naturally try to curb our country,” he commented. He called for a strategy that would protect India’s interests without escalating to conflict.

Bhagwat concluded with a hopeful note about India’s foreign policy, asserting that it has been successful thus far and expressing a desire for ongoing peace with China, provided it does not come at the expense of India’s territorial integrity.