Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat has emphasized the critical need for meaningful dialogue with the younger generation, noting that the current era of blind obedience has transitioned into one of analysis and questioning, while speaking at the 'Yuganukul Matrutva' program organized by the Vishwamangalya Sabha at Ambedkar Bhavan in Delhi, Bhagwat shared profound insights into the changing dynamics of family values and the evolving mindset of the youth. He remarked that the style in which elders previously communicated must now change to accommodate the analytical nature of the new generation.
The Shift from Obedience to Analysis
Bhagwat pointed out that the days when children followed every instruction without question are long gone. He remarked that while previous generations accepted the wisdom of their elders based on faith and their life experiences, the modern youth requires logical reasoning. "The youth of today can't be given orders; they need dialogue," he stated, while he observed that the new generation analyzes every piece of information and expects a rational explanation for the traditions and rules they're asked to follow. This shift necessitates a change in the communication style of elders, moving away from a command-based approach to one rooted in conversation and mutual understanding.
Impact of Technology on Family Communication
The RSS Chief expressed concern over the diminishing communication within families due to the excessive use of mobile phones. He noted that today, every individual in a household is often preoccupied with their own device, leading to a breakdown in personal interaction. Even when guests visit, people remain engrossed in their phones. Bhagwat suggested that this behavior must change to create time for genuine conversation. He emphasized that when families spend time together in casual chatter, children feel more comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts. He also highlighted that the first 12 years of a child's upbringing are crucial and remain primarily in the hands of the parents. To effectively address the curiosity of children, parents must first learn and embody the values they wish to impart, as the new generation will only believe in what they see being practiced.
Motherhood as the Foundation of Society
Addressing the role of women, Mohan Bhagwat described motherhood as the fundamental basis for the nourishment, sustenance, and continuity of creation. He stated that while thought is the greatest power of a human being, it's the mother who provides the right direction to those thoughts, while he identified the mother as the first teacher and guru of a human being, serving as the primary center for emotional support throughout a person's life. He explained that humans learn through contemplation, imitation, and experience, adapting themselves over time.
Preserving Cultural Values Against Modernity
Bhagwat also touched upon the historical impact of foreign invasions and British rule, which led to the neglect of Indian knowledge and traditions. He lamented that in modern times, marriage, family, and motherhood are increasingly being viewed through the lens of transactions or deals. The rise of individualism has led to indifference toward family and social responsibilities. He noted that under the guise of modernity, many fundamental cultural beliefs have been left behind, with marriage being viewed as a burden. He called for society to move forward based on human history and the Indian perspective, urging people to adopt Indian culture and values rather than blindly mimicking foreign lifestyles. He concluded by stating that motherhood is the core of creation and life, and the cultural foundation of India remains strong despite long-standing attempts to portray traditions as incorrect.