RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday said India had become stronger and more respected in the world with enhanced credibility in the last few years but sinister conspiracies were testing the country’s resolve.

Attempts to disturb and destabilise the country seem to be gaining momentum from all directions while a narrative is being spread in Bangladesh to portray India as a threat, he said.

Addressing the annual Vijayadashami rally of the RSS in Nagpur, Bhagwat said firmness of personal and national character becomes the foundation of strength for the victory of auspiciousness and righteousness, whether the situation is favourable or not.

“Everyone feels Bharat has become stronger and more respected in the world with enhanced credibility in the last few years. A country becomes great due to the national character of its people. This year is important as the RSS steps into its centenary year,” he said.

Besides hopes and aspirations, challenges and problems also exist in India, he said.

“We should draw inspiration from personalities such as Ahilyabai Holkar, Dayananda Saraswati, Birsa Munda and many more who devoted their lives to the country’s welfare, dharma, culture and society,” said the RSS chief.

Bhagwat expressed satisfaction at the peaceful conduct of Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Due to the people, government and administration, the country’s image, power, fame and position on the world stage is growing. But sinister conspiracies have appeared to destabilise and disturb the country,” he said.

According to Bhagwat, a narrative is being spread in Bangladesh, which recently witnessed a massive political upheaval, that India is a threat and they should join Pakistan as a defence against Bharat.

The RSS chief said a tyrannical fundamentalist nature exists in Bangladesh. A sword of danger hangs over the heads of minorities, including Hindus, he said. Hindus have now come out to defend themselves, he said, adding that they will need the help of all those favouring humanity and harmony, especially the Indian government and fellow Hindus from all over the world.

“That is why infiltration from Bangladesh into Bharat and the population imbalance caused by it has become a matter of serious concern even among the common people,” said Bhagwat.

“Being unorganised and weak is like inviting atrocities by the wicked. Hindus need to be united,” he stressed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the RSS is dedicated to serving the country as he extended his wishes to its volunteers on the organisation entering its hundredth year.

In a post on X, Modi shared the link to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s annual Vijayadashami address made earlier in the day, calling it a must-listen.