Early Life and Family:
Mohan Madhukar Bhagwat was born into a Marathi family in Chandrapur, part of the Bombay State. He hails from a lineage deeply connected to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), with his father, Madhukar Rao, serving as a prominent figure within the organization. His mother, Malati, was also actively involved in the Women’s Wing of the RSS.
Education and Career:
Bhagwat pursued his education at Lokmanya Tilak Vidyalaya before obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from Janata College in Chandrapur. His academic journey led him to study Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at the Government Veterinary College in Nagpur. However, his dedication to the RSS led him to abandon his postgraduate studies in 1975 to become a full-time RSS Pracharak.
His career within the RSS flourished over the years, culminating in significant leadership roles. He served as India’s Akhil Bharatiya Sharirik Pramukh (in charge of physical training) from 1991 to 1999 and later as Akhil Bharatiya Pracharak Pramukh (in charge of RSS volunteers working full-time for India). Bhagwat’s ascent within the organization continued, eventually leading to his appointment as Sar Karyavah (general secretary).
In March 2009, Bhagwat assumed the role of Sarsanghchalak, becoming the sixth and current leader of the RSS, succeeding K. S. Sudarshan. His tenure marked a significant chapter in the organization’s history, characterized by both challenges and accomplishments.
Association with RSS:
Bhagwat’s association with the RSS dates back to the tumultuous period of the Emergency, during which he played an active role within the organization. He steadily rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities across different regions of Maharashtra before assuming leadership roles at the national level.
Under his leadership, the RSS underwent significant developments and initiatives aimed at furthering its ideological objectives. Bhagwat’s outreach efforts included engagements with political leaders and institutions, showcasing the RSS’s influence and relevance in contemporary Indian society.
Security and Recognition:
Due to perceived security threats from Islamist terrorist organizations, Bhagwat was provided round-the-clock security by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in June 2015. This Z+ VVIP security cover underscores the significance of his position within the RSS and his stature in Indian society.
Bhagwat’s contributions and leadership have garnered recognition, including an honorary Doctor of Science (DSc) degree conferred upon him by the government-run Animal and Fishery Sciences University during a convocation event in Nagpur in 2017.
Conclusion:
Mohan Bhagwat’s journey from a young RSS Pracharak to the Sarsanghchalak reflects his unwavering commitment to the organization’s principles and vision. As he continues to navigate the complexities of Indian politics and society, Bhagwat remains a central figure in shaping the trajectory of the RSS movement.
