Pranab Mukherjee at RSS HQ updates: Ex-president showed the mirror to Sangh, says Congress after speech

HIGHLIGHTS

• 21:46 (IST)
  
  Pranab's comment a reminder to Narendra Modi governemnt: Congress of ex-president's speech
  "Shri Mukherjee also reminded the present Modi Government of following Rajdharma, founded upon our diversity, non-violence, multiculturalism and assimilation of ideas. He particularly reminded the Prime Minister that 'Happiness of people is the happiness of ruler, their welfare is his welfare'. Indicating the unchecked exercise of authority and attack on institutions in the garb of a self-professed definition of 'Pseudo Nationalism', he reminded the RSS as also the Prime Minister that, 'Indian Nationalism is Constitutional patriotism," Surjewala said. 
• 21:43 (IST)
  
  Congress dismisses Pranab's comments on Hedgewar, says focus on speech not formalities
  "As a guest what Pranab Mukherjee ji said should be discussed and highlighted, not unwarranted formalities," Surjewala said on Mukherjee hailing KB Hedgewar as 'great son of Mother India'. 
• 21:36 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee showed mirror to RSS, Congress after ex-president's speech 
  "Shri Pranab Mukherjee has reminded the RSS of the history of India. He taught the RSS that India's beauty lies in its tolerance for difference ideas, religions and languages. Is RSS ready to listen?," Randeep Singh Surjewala asked at a press conference convened after the former president's speech. 
  "Today Pranab Mukherjee has shown the mirror to RSS at their HQ. He talked of plurality, tolerance and multiculturalism," he added. 
• 21:34 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee speech should remind Congress too, the meaning of nationalism 
  Pranab Mukherjee’s thrust was on virtues of plurality, social and cultural diversity, divergent opinions, inclusiveness, secularism and democracy. Crores of people of varied faith, language, social practices were bought together as one nation by one flag and one constitution. This would have been taken as a criticism of RSS but thankfully for Sangh their chief Mohan Bhagwat had broadly outlined his speech on same pattern. While the former president gave a lesson or two when he talked about his concerns for increased violence, but that is applicable for all and not just for the RSS. 
  What also needs to be noted that Pranab ended his speech on a friendly note by requesting sarsnghchalakMohan Bhagwat to excuse him if he exceeded his time. The pictures, still and moving, would ever be witness of bonhomie between Bhagwat and Mukherjee and the latter standing while RSS flag was unfurled at the beginning of program and when it was brought down on its conclusion. There was also a lesson or two for Congress. The party would do well to remember that what Pranab quoted from Jawaharlal Nehru's Discovery of India is what nationalism truly meant. 
• 20:56 (IST)
  
  People should be at the centre of all activities, says Pranab Mukherjee 
  "People are at the centre of all activities of the State and nothing should be done to divide them.The aim of the State should be to galvanise them to fight a concerted war against poverty,disease and deprivation.Only then can we create a nation where Nationalism flows automatically," Mukherjee said. 
• 20:49 (IST)
  
  Hatred, intolerance dilute national identity, says Pranab Mukherjee
  "Many languages and religion under come under one flag. Every day, we see increased violence around us. We must free our public discourse from all forms of violence — physical or verbal. We must move away from anger and violence to peace, harmony and happiness. I am addressing the trainees, you are young and highly trained. Please pray for peace. Our motherland is asking for that and needs that. Every time a woman and child is hurt, the soul of India is wounded. While we have done well in many macro-economic areas. But we have not fared well in the World Happiness Index. We rank 133rd. When we go to Parliament, just above the lift in gate number 6, there is a quote by Kautilya, 'In the happiness of the people lies in the happiness of the king. Their welfare is the king's welfare.' Kautilya placed people at the Centre even before India's constitution was laid down. As Gandhi ji said, 'Indian nationalism was not exclusive, aggressive or destructive'," says Pranab Mukherjee as he ended his speech at the RSS Tritiya Varsh valedictory event in Nagpur.
• 20:39 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee's comments on confluence of cultures, ancient Indian glory at RSS HQ
  Pranab Mukherjee beginning his speech with glory of India in ancient times was interesting. Those in Hindutava fold stress on the glorious period of India, which was eulogized by travelers from across the world. Chankaya, Chandragupta and whole lot of others came in for reference. He said that the trust in India as a country is eternal. It has rich cultural and civilisational tradition. Indian nationalism had evolved through ages but at the centre of it was the thought of universal brotherhood, `Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam’. Mukherjee with his famed knowledge of politics, history and tradition would come to new RSS recruits, those gathered there and watching him on TV as a learned professor who gave them a memorable lecture.
• 20:34 (IST)
  
  'From our Constitution flows our nationalism,' Pranab schools RSS cadres on patriotism
  Democracy is not a gift to us but a sacred task. And our Constitution is a magna carta of socio economic transformation of India. It represents the aspiration of millions of Indian. And from our Constitution, flows our Nationalism," Pranab summed up. 
• 20:31 (IST)
  
  Our nationalism not bound by race or religion, says Pranab Mukherjee
  "The concept of a modern Indian state, transcribed by thinkers and ideologies has provided India with a permanent edge. "A nation in the making" conceptualises the Indian state. Our national identity emerged from a long-drawn process of confluence and co-existence. The concept of modern India was articulated from various Indian leaders, it was not bound by race or religion," says Pranab Mukherjee.
• 20:29 (IST)
  
  The confluence of cultures do not mean extinction of another, Pranab Mukherjee at RSS HQ
  "India does not mean one religion, one entity or one culture. It is the confluence and assimilation of all these cultures that makes us unique. It is important to remember that the confluence of cultures do not mean extinction of another. Our nation is neither bound by religion nor race. In fact our Bharat is made up of its diversity," Pranab said. 
• 20:24 (IST)
  
  Nationalism, national identity derives strength from our diversity, Pranab's message to Sangh
  "A particular thing needs to be kept in mind. Of the 2500 years of conquerers and rulers, the 5000 year old civilization remains constant. Each conquerer has been assimilated and absorbed. This is what makes us special," Pranab said. He went on to quote Rabindra Nath Tagore to say that the Bharat, as he understands, is an assimilation of various "indominiable waves" that came and assimilated into the Indian society.   
• 20:18 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee praises ancient Indian wisdom, says nationalism helps identify with own nation
  "Nationalism is identification with one's own nation. It is devotion to and for one’s own country. India was an open society and globally connected along the Silk Route. Merchants and conqurers came to India. Many ancient travellers came to India and gave their account. Various foreign travellers, who came to India centuries ago, said India had an efficient administration and great education system," Mukherjee said. 
• 20:16 (IST)
  
  Any attempt to divide society will dilute national identity, says Pranab Mukherjee
  "Our national identity has emerged through a long drawn process of confluence and assimilation. The multiplicity and pluralism separates us from others. Any attempt at defining our nationhood in terms of dogma, religion... will only result in dilution of our national identity," says Pranab Mukherjee
• 20:12 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee says, here to share my understanding of Bharat with you
  "The concepts of nationalism and patriotism are so deeply intertwined that it is very difficult to separate them and discuss. I am here to share my understanding of of these concepts and my understanding of Bharat," Mukherjee said. 
• 20:08 (IST)
  
  Mohan Bhagwat strikes right notes, making use of grand opportunity 
  Mohan Bhagwat knows it well that he never has had a platform when crores of Indians would be watching him, hearing every word that he is saying. Thanks to the controversy around Pranab Mukherjee landing at RSS headquarters, the nation is hooked to TV sets and watching his speech live. To his credit he is not letting this opportunity go.
  He began with by striking the right notes on several counts. Starting from explaining why Mukherjee was here at passing out parade of 750 new recruits, Bhagwat said, "Sangh will remain Sangh and Dr Mukherjee will remain Dr Mukherjee," despite the latters presence at an event hosted by an organisation which follows a different ideology
  He hailed Pranab Mukherjee’s credentials as a statesman and as a person. Secondly, he explained at lengh that RSS was not an organisation for Hindus but for all Indians. "How can one Indian be an alien to another Indian" and reminded that India has since time immemorial believed in 'unity in diversity'.
  He set the tone for right public narrative in his organization by saying that there has to divergence of views in a country as big as India but ultimately all were “sons of mother India” and thus have to work for advancement of India. 
• 19:56 (IST)
  
  Despite differences, we must work for betterment of same country, says Mohan Bhagwat
  "Everybody has the right to have a political opinion but there is a limit to have opposing opinion. We should realise that we are working for the betterment of the same country. No matter what our language, ideology, religion, RSS believes in welfare of the society,"  Bhagwat said. 
• 19:54 (IST)
  
  Government's can't do everything, citizens should also contribute, says Mohan Bhagwat 
  "Government alone cannot do everything. Citizens also have to contribute. Then only country can change. And the Sangh does not want to unite any particular section of the society but the entire society as such. And such consolidation does not happen by listening to a speech or reading some literature, albeit a constant effort is needed. And the Sangh is constantly working for this," Bhagwat said. 
• 19:49 (IST)
  
  Differences in opinion should not divide us, Mohan Bhagwat on Pranab Mukherjee's presence at RSS event
  "There should be, and could be a lot of differences in opinions and ways. There are times when we have differences. But we are all sons of the same soil. We are all the same even in this diversity," Bhagwat said. 
• 19:47 (IST)
  
  RSS wants to unite entire society, we celebrate diversity, says Mohan Bhagwat
  "The Sangh only wants to unite the entire society. We embrace all, we are not just for one section. RSS believes in unity in diversity. Every citizen born in India is an Indian. It is his right to worship our motherland. There have been many debates about Pranab Mukjherjee attending the event but we do not consider anyone different from ourselves. We Indian are all one and united," says Bhagwat 
• 19:43 (IST)
  
  No Indian an alien for us, says Mohan Bhagwat on controversy around invite to Pranab Mukherjee 
  "RSS invites well known people from various walks of life. The Sangh remains the Sangh and Dr Pranab Mukherjee remains Dr Pranab Mukherjee. We do not discriminate between Indian citizens. No Indian citizen is an alien for us. RSS believes in unity in diversity. Every citizen born in India is an Indian. It is his/her right to worship our motherland, Bhagwat said. 
• 19:38 (IST)
  
  Mohan Bhagwat gives opening note at event; welcomes ex-president
  "The RSS event takes place in the same way, year after year. We call important and respected dignitaries every year, those who can come grace the event with their presence. But all the discussion and opposition around who visits us and when, is meaningless," Bhagwat said. 
• 19:37 (IST)
  
  RSS was founded by KB Hedgewar on 25 September 1925
  Rashtriya Swayam Sangh started at KB Hedgewar's home on the day of Vijayadashami on 25 September 1925. Hedgewar, along with 17 others, convened the first meeting of the RSS. The Sangh shakha was later started in Mohitewada, Nagpur. 
  The name ‘Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’ was selected for the organisation on April 17, 1926 from a list of four names — Jaripatka Mandal, Bharat Uddharak Mandal, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
• 19:30 (IST)
  
  Former president Pranab Mukherjee at RSS event 
  Image courtesy: Screenshot from RSSOrg Facebook Live
• 19:19 (IST)
  
  InPictures: Pranab Mukherjee paid tribute to RSS ideologue Madhav Golwalkar
  ​
• 19:12 (IST)
  
  Congress preaches tolerance, practice intolerance: Kiren Rijiju
• 19:09 (IST)
  
  RSS flag unfurled at event; Pranab Mukherjee witnesses Sangh cadres' drill
  The RSS flag has been unfurled at RSS's Tritiya Varsh event and the former president along with RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat stood up on the occassion. The former president is seated on the stage and currently, around 700 RSS cadres who are 'passing out' at today's event are performing a drill. RSS mentioned in a tweet that 6 shikshaks (trainers), 39 Prant Pramukhs & 120 prabandhaks have "toiled day and night" to ensure that the camp runs smoothly. 707 swayamsevaks will be completing their varg this year. Of them, 191 are Post Graduates and 375 are graduates. 
• 19:01 (IST)
  
  Ex-president at Sangh's dais; Congress says don't forget what they stand for 
• 18:51 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee garlanded idol of KB Hedgewar 
• 18:50 (IST)
  
  Congress' Hussain Dalwai criticisesPranab for praising Sangh founder
  "I had a lot of respect for him but perhaps because of his age he thought he should do something wrong before making an exit," Dalwai told ANI.
• 18:40 (IST)
  
  RSS event begins with flag hoisting, traditional march-past; speech to begin shortly
• 18:34 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee, flanked by Mohan Bhagwat, takes stage at RSS Tritiya Varsh event
• 18:31 (IST)
  
  RSS' invite to Pranab Mukherjee shows Sangh more liberal than Left, Congress
  Pranab Mukherjee’s visit to RSS headquarters has put 'secularist'-leftist-liberals on the defensive. Those who had been endlessly preaching on "tolerance" to Modi government and rest of the country are displaying maximum intolerance by taking on the former president for his decision to visit RSS headquarters. They have re-ignited the tolerance-intolerance debate, this time to their own loss. 
  In an article published in Firstpost, RSS’ all India prachar pramukh Manmohan Vaidya talked about intolerance of Left-liberals who would bracket anyone not agreeing with their world view as right winger. He and others in RSS argue that RSS had invited Mukherjee knowing fully well that his ideological grooming and world view had been different than their own.
  In fact, the RSS keeps on inviting people from other streams of life who don’t necessarily agree with the Hindutava organisation, which in turn goes on to portray RSS as a tolerant organisation which respects persons with contrarian views, as opposed to a Congress or a CPM. For once RSS appears to have stolen the thunder on public narrative from left liberals.
• 18:20 (IST)
  
  'Dialogue possible with those willing to listen and change,' Anand Sharma on RSS' defense on inviting Pranab
  ​
  RSS, in its defense, had said that the exchange of views and ideas is intrinsic to the Bharatiya concept of dialogue. However, Congress leader and Rajya Sabha anand Sharma has a comeback for that. Sharma, tweeted that dialogue is possible only with those willing to change." He also said that Pranab Da's images at RSS headquarter have 'hurt' Congress workers. 
• 18:15 (IST)
  
  Images of Pranab Da at RSS HQ have anguished millions of Congress workers, says Congress' Anand Sharma
• 18:11 (IST)
  
  Images of Pranab Mukherhjee at RSS HQ will hurt Rahul Gandhi
  The visuals coming from Nagpur would hurt Rahul Gandhi most. A signed statement in visitor book by Pranab Mukherjee at RSS founder Dr Hegdewar's memorial  — "Today I came here to pay my respectful homage to a great son of mother India" — will hurt him even more. The Congress' negative view on Hegdewar is well known. In one single stroke of pen, the former president has reversed that.
  There is no single public meeting of Rahul where he does not extensively talk of RSS, portraying it as an evil organisation which was out to destroy India and Indian-ness. Rahul is even facing a defamation case for calling RSS the 'killer of Mahatma Gandhi'. It would now become embarrassing for him if he as Congress president continues to talk in the same vein, while Pranab who has for long been taken as political Guru for Rahul, has a signed a comment like that.
  Pranab indeed was somebody, the Congress president could turn to in times of crisis. Rahul may in due course reconcile losing a guru but the problem for Congress president is far greater, that of losing face.
• 18:06 (IST)
  
  Should Ahmed Patel's tweet on Pranab Mukherjee be read in voice of Sonia Gandhi?
  Pranab Mukherjee has been Congress' trouble-shooter when the party had to deal with political rivals and on more than one occasion he has been a policy resolution writer, which condemned the RSS in strong words. That’s the reason why Ahmed Patel "did not expect this from Pranab Da". Patel has been Sonia Gandhi’s political secretary for long and what he says could be taken as her voice or a statement (which sounds a bit exasperated as of now). 
• 18:04 (IST)
  
  Sharmishtha Mukherjee is right, these images will come back to haunt Congress
  The Congress may be feeling uneasy over Pranab Mukherjee’s presence at RSS headquarters but the party should realize that it is they who hyped this event. Pranab's daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee and Amhed Patel’s tweets are reflective of the kind of turmoil that is going on in the Congress over the issue.
  Sharmistha was right when she said that “speech will be forgotten, but visuals will remain” and that certainly is a problem. From RSS’ point of view there could be whole album of pictures, frame after frame where former president, a dyed in wool Congress leader for all his life, is looking comfortable in company of  RSS top brass. It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words.
  In this case not one but multiple pictures would come to haunt Congress. Pranab, after all, has been no ordinary Congress leader. Before being elevated to the post of president he has held every single post of importance, except for Congress president (a post reserved for Ganhi-Nehru family) and prime minister.
  Image courtesy: Twitter @RSSorg
• 17:56 (IST)
  
  In 2017 Pranab spoke at an event organised by an RSS body and IGNOU 
  Interestingly, in 2017 Pranab spoke at an event organised by an RSS body and IGNOU where the then president said that tolerance for pluralism, compassion for all and love for the motherland are core civilisational values of India where hundreds of languages and all major religions live under one system. "The idea of Bharat flows from eternal wisdom of our rich traditions. Our core civilisational values, which are equally relevant today - speak of love for motherland, performance of duty, compassion for all, tolerance for pluralism, honesty in life, self restraint in conduct, responsibility in action and discipline," Pranab was quoted as saying.
• 17:39 (IST)
  
  Pranab makes impromptu visit at RSS founder KB Hedgewar's birthplace ahead of RSS speech
  Former President and the Congress veteran Pranab Mukherjee today visited the birth place of the RSS founding Sarsanghachalak Keshav Baliram Hedgewar ahead of his much-anticipated speech at the Sangh headquarters here.
   
  Mukherjee was welcomed by the RSS chief Bhagwat. According to sources, this visit to pay tributes to Hedgewar was not part of Mukherjee's scheduled itinerary and an impromptu decision was taken by the former president to do so.
• 17:27 (IST)
  
  'Customary to invite significant contributors to national life': RSS introduces its chief guest 
• 17:23 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee looks at ease with Mohan Bhagwat at RSS HQ
  Now that Pranab Mukherjee is at RSS headquarters in Nagpur, all eyes and ears are on what will he say. It’s hazardous to make a guess. But political corridors in Delhi, particularly those in the Congress are busy taking a guess. The former president will surely speak on `nationalism’. But the question is whether his words will be music to the ears of those gathered there, in harmony with RSS’s views on the subject, or will he present himself as a critic who had courage and conviction to accept RSS’ invite and give them a lesson or two on nationalism, what it ought to be, and what ideological fountainhead of Sangh Parivar preaches.
  In first visuals that have come from Nagpur, Mukherjee, clad in dhoti-Kurta-badi looks at complete ease in the company of Mohan Bhagwat, while going for a guided tour inside the RSS campus. It appears as if he is oblivious to fury that his visit has generated in his erstwhile party, his family and among left-liberal intellectuals.
• 17:03 (IST)
  
  Pranab arrives at RSS founder's house
  Television visuals have shown Pranab Mukherjee arriving at the RSS founder Keshav Hedgewar's house in Nagpur.
• 16:29 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee is not a first, many RSS guests in past have stirred controversy
  The invite to Pranab Mukherjee isn't a one-off. TheRSS has been known to invitepeople not ascribing to its ideology. 
  One of the earliest such examples is from 1993 when former Central Provinces home minister Sir Moropant Joshi was invited during  KB Hedgewar’s time. Apart from that, the RSS often refers to a voluntary visit to the Wardha RSS camp by Mahatma Gandhi on 25 December 1934. It is no surprise then that Gandhian health activist Abhay Bang has also been one of the former chief guests at the RSS event. 
  RSS also claims that revolutionary Congress politician Jayaprakash Narayan also had once presided over the RSS functionaries as a guest. Some others former chief guests at RSS headquarters include the likes of former CBI chief Joginder Singh, Republican Party of India (Gavai) president R S Gavai, and former Nepal Army chief Rookmangud Katawal.
  However, it was in 2007, when former Air Chief Marshal AY Tipnis was invited to the Nagpur camp by then Sarsanghchalak K S Sudarshan. Without targeting the RSS directly, "Tipnis raised eyebrows as he delivered a veiled critique dealing with secularism, tolerance and faith in the Constitution which led to a point-by-point rebuttal by Sudarshan"
• 16:09 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee accepting RSS' invite could mean he's keeping post-retirement political options open
  Former President Pranab Mukherjee consenting to be the chief guest at the RSS event should be seen as the RSS' attempt to broaden its base and appropriate iconic figures. Contrary to popular perception, the chequered history of RSS-Congress relations has seen the two cosy up, bringing dividends to both sides.
  However, a closer look at Mukherjee's political and personal ambitions is also merited. After retirement, Mukherjee has seen a lot of visitors at his 10, Rajaji Marg residence. And it is generally believed that a section of the political class, which is unsure of Rahul's ability to either lead a rainbow coalition or make Congress a stronger organisation, is working behind-the-scenes so Mukherjee takes a more "pro-active role in national life".
  It is in view of such developments that one must consider Mukherjee's acceptance of the RSS invitation – it could be one of several options the former president has to re-enter public life, including engaging with third front protagonists like Naveen Patnaik and restless Congressmen unsure of Rahul's prowess.
  Read the complete analysis here 
• 15:54 (IST)
  
  RSS issues statement after controversy over Pranab Mukherjee's visit, says exchange of ideas crucial 
  The Sangh was also unsparing in its criticism of the Left as it defended its invite to the former president at its event. 
  "Exchange of views and ideas is intrinsic to the Bharatiya concept of dialogue, this invitation and its acceptance is but a continuation of that democratic tradition, enshrined in our cultural ethos. So why then the dissonance and negative commentary? Why the opposition to this exchange?
  The resistance has surprised many, but if we were to delve into the ideological basis of this opposition it would be unsurprising. Bharat’s intellectual spectrum’s most vocal voices are those of, an ideology that is entirely alien to India and has been rejected the world over, for its high level of intolerance and violent means to achieve conformity, that is ‘Communism’. Their idea of “thought conformity” necessitates this approach that not only rejects healthy exchange among diverse stakeholders but protests it."
• 15:45 (IST)
  
  After daughter, Pranab’s son too may have to speak up on RSS event 
  CNN-News18 interviewed West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Thursday who opined that after Sharmishtha Mukherejee, Pranab's son Abhijit may also have to speak up against the former president's decision to attend the RSS event. 
  He said that although Pranab is respected as a knowledgeable person, he has never been a popular leader in Bengal. Like many congressmen, Chowdhury also appeared critical of Pranab's decision to participate in the event as he said, "The BJP is doing politics in Bengal. And with this, they’ll have a spicy material that they’ll use against the Congress. Once a robust Congress leader, he is visiting the RSS headquarters. The BJP is a communal party and they’ll definitely make Pranab Mukherjee into a political scandal."
• 15:03 (IST)
  
  Pranab will not say anything against nation, says Virbhadra Singh
  ​
  "I'm sure that Pranab Mukherjee won't say anything in Nagpur which isn't in favour of the nation. In fact, whatever he says will be in favour of country. I've no issues with him attending that event. He's free to go wherever he wants to," ANI quoted former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh as saying.
  ​
• 14:32 (IST)
  
  Free to accept or reject any invitation, says Ramachandra Guha
  Speaking in support of Mukherjee, historian Ramachandra Guha said the former president was free to accept or reject any invitation he received. However, he lent a word of caution to Mukherjee and said that in the age of fake news, he should release the full text of his speech in the public domain as soon as the speech is delivered.
• 14:18 (IST)
  
  Speech will be forgotten, visuals will remain: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter
  On Wednesday, the former president's daughter, Sharmistha Mukherjee, disapproved of his decision and cautioned her father saying he was giving the BJP and the Sangh a handle to plant false stories as his "speech will be forgotten" but "visuals will remain".
• 14:03 (IST)
  
  RSS to livestream event from 6.30 pm onwards
  Former president and senior Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee will be addressing the valedictory function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) Sangh Shiksha Varg — a training camp for the volunteers — at the headquarters in Nagpur on Thursday.
• 13:57 (IST)
  
  Pranab Mukherjee to attend RSS event in Nagpur today amid much criticism
  Former president Pranab Mukherjee arrived in Nagpur on Wednesday to attend an RSS event on Thursday which has generated a lot of interest and controversy over the last few days.
  Mukherjee, who had been in the Congress for most of his political career and had been slamming the RSS, will attend the valedictory function of the 'Sangh Shiksha Varg' in Nagpur, the headquarters of the Sangh fountainhead.
  Mukherjee accepting the invite from the RSS has generated a lot of interest as well as controversy, with Congress leaders urging him not to attend the event in the "interest of secularism". - PTI

• 22:10 (IST)
  Hope RSS listes to Pranab Mukherjee, says Congress' Anand Sharma 

  We did not see the tricolour go up or the national anthem being sung at the RSS HQ. There was never any doubt of Pranab Mukherjee's ability to articulate and his conviction, but for dialogue the other side must listen and change,hope RSS does it: Anand Sharma,Congress pic.twitter.com/6kDxJ6wTRJ

  — ANI (@ANI) June 7, 2018
• 22:02 (IST)
  Perhaps the Congress jumped the gun in criticising Pranab Mukherjee for his visit to RSS HQ | FirstCut by Manjul Toons
  ​
  
• 21:46 (IST)
  Pranab's comment a reminder to Narendra Modi governemnt: Congress of ex-president's speech
  "Shri Mukherjee also reminded the present Modi Government of following Rajdharma, founded upon our diversity, non-violence, multiculturalism and assimilation of ideas. He particularly reminded the Prime Minister that 'Happiness of people is the happiness of ruler, their welfare is his welfare'. Indicating the unchecked exercise of authority and attack on institutions in the garb of a self-professed definition of 'Pseudo Nationalism', he reminded the RSS as also the Prime Minister that, 'Indian Nationalism is Constitutional patriotism," Surjewala said. 
• 21:43 (IST)
  Congress dismisses Pranab's comments on Hedgewar, says focus on speech not formalities
  "As a guest what Pranab Mukherjee ji said should be discussed and highlighted, not unwarranted formalities," Surjewala said on Mukherjee hailing KB Hedgewar as 'great son of Mother India'. 
• 21:36 (IST)
  Pranab Mukherjee showed mirror to RSS, Congress after ex-president's speech 
  "Shri Pranab Mukherjee has reminded the RSS of the history of India. He taught the RSS that India's beauty lies in its tolerance for difference ideas, religions and languages. Is RSS ready to listen?," Randeep Singh Surjewala asked at a press conference convened after the former president's speech. 
  "Today Pranab Mukherjee has shown the mirror to RSS at their HQ. He talked of plurality, tolerance and multiculturalism," he added. 
• Sanjay Singh, political editor, Firstpost

  21:34 (IST)
  Pranab Mukherjee speech should remind Congress too, the meaning of nationalism 
  Pranab Mukherjee’s thrust was on virtues of plurality, social and cultural diversity, divergent opinions, inclusiveness, secularism and democracy. Crores of people of varied faith, language, social practices were bought together as one nation by one flag and one constitution. This would have been taken as a criticism of RSS but thankfully for Sangh their chief Mohan Bhagwat had broadly outlined his speech on same pattern. While the former president gave a lesson or two when he talked about his concerns for increased violence, but that is applicable for all and not just for the RSS. 
  What also needs to be noted that Pranab ended his speech on a friendly note by requesting sarsnghchalakMohan Bhagwat to excuse him if he exceeded his time. The pictures, still and moving, would ever be witness of bonhomie between Bhagwat and Mukherjee and the latter standing while RSS flag was unfurled at the beginning of program and when it was brought down on its conclusion. There was also a lesson or two for Congress. The party would do well to remember that what Pranab quoted from Jawaharlal Nehru's Discovery of India is what nationalism truly meant. 
• 20:56 (IST)
  People should be at the centre of all activities, says Pranab Mukherjee 
  "People are at the centre of all activities of the State and nothing should be done to divide them.The aim of the State should be to galvanise them to fight a concerted war against poverty,disease and deprivation.Only then can we create a nation where Nationalism flows automatically," Mukherjee said. 
• 20:49 (IST)
  Hatred, intolerance dilute national identity, says Pranab Mukherjee
  "Many languages and religion under come under one flag. Every day, we see increased violence around us. We must free our public discourse from all forms of violence — physical or verbal. We must move away from anger and violence to peace, harmony and happiness. I am addressing the trainees, you are young and highly trained. Please pray for peace. Our motherland is asking for that and needs that. Every time a woman and child is hurt, the soul of India is wounded. While we have done well in many macro-economic areas. But we have not fared well in the World Happiness Index. We rank 133rd. When we go to Parliament, just above the lift in gate number 6, there is a quote by Kautilya, 'In the happiness of the people lies in the happiness of the king. Their welfare is the king's welfare.' Kautilya placed people at the Centre even before India's constitution was laid down. As Gandhi ji said, 'Indian nationalism was not exclusive, aggressive or destructive'," says Pranab Mukherjee as he ended his speech at the RSS Tritiya Varsh valedictory event in Nagpur.
• Sanjay Singh, political editor, Firstpost

  20:39 (IST)
  Pranab Mukherjee's comments on confluence of cultures, ancient Indian glory at RSS HQ
  Pranab Mukherjee beginning his speech with glory of India in ancient times was interesting. Those in Hindutava fold stress on the glorious period of India, which was eulogized by travelers from across the world. Chankaya, Chandragupta and whole lot of others came in for reference. He said that the trust in India as a country is eternal. It has rich cultural and civilisational tradition. Indian nationalism had evolved through ages but at the centre of it was the thought of universal brotherhood, `Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam’. Mukherjee with his famed knowledge of politics, history and tradition would come to new RSS recruits, those gathered there and watching him on TV as a learned professor who gave them a memorable lecture.
• 20:34 (IST)
  'From our Constitution flows our nationalism,' Pranab schools RSS cadres on patriotism
  Democracy is not a gift to us but a sacred task. And our Constitution is a magna carta of socio economic transformation of India. It represents the aspiration of millions of Indian. And from our Constitution, flows our Nationalism," Pranab summed up. 
• 20:31 (IST)
  Our nationalism not bound by race or religion, says Pranab Mukherjee
  "The concept of a modern Indian state, transcribed by thinkers and ideologies has provided India with a permanent edge. "A nation in the making" conceptualises the Indian state. Our national identity emerged from a long-drawn process of confluence and co-existence. The concept of modern India was articulated from various Indian leaders, it was not bound by race or religion," says Pranab Mukherjee.
• 20:29 (IST)
  The confluence of cultures do not mean extinction of another, Pranab Mukherjee at RSS HQ
  "India does not mean one religion, one entity or one culture. It is the confluence and assimilation of all these cultures that makes us unique. It is important to remember that the confluence of cultures do not mean extinction of another. Our nation is neither bound by religion nor race. In fact our Bharat is made up of its diversity," Pranab said. 
• 20:24 (IST)
  Nationalism, national identity derives strength from our diversity, Pranab's message to Sangh
  "A particular thing needs to be kept in mind. Of the 2500 years of conquerers and rulers, the 5000 year old civilization remains constant. Each conquerer has been assimilated and absorbed. This is what makes us special," Pranab said. He went on to quote Rabindra Nath Tagore to say that the Bharat, as he understands, is an assimilation of various "indominiable waves" that came and assimilated into the Indian society.   
• 20:18 (IST)
  Pranab Mukherjee praises ancient Indian wisdom, says nationalism helps identify with own nation
  "Nationalism is identification with one's own nation. It is devotion to and for one’s own country. India was an open society and globally connected along the Silk Route. Merchants and conqurers came to India. Many ancient travellers came to India and gave their account. Various foreign travellers, who came to India centuries ago, said India had an efficient administration and great education system," Mukherjee said. 
• 20:16 (IST)
  Any attempt to divide society will dilute national identity, says Pranab Mukherjee
  "Our national identity has emerged through a long drawn process of confluence and assimilation. The multiplicity and pluralism separates us from others. Any attempt at defining our nationhood in terms of dogma, religion... will only result in dilution of our national identity," says Pranab Mukherjee
• 20:13 (IST)
  Pranab Mukherjee hails ancient Indian wisdom at RSS event
  
• 20:12 (IST)
  Pranab Mukherjee says, here to share my understanding of Bharat with you
  "The concepts of nationalism and patriotism are so deeply intertwined that it is very difficult to separate them and discuss. I am here to share my understanding of of these concepts and my understanding of Bharat," Mukherjee said. 
• Sanjay Singh, political editor, Firstpost

  20:08 (IST)
  Mohan Bhagwat strikes right notes, making use of grand opportunity 
  Mohan Bhagwat knows it well that he never has had a platform when crores of Indians would be watching him, hearing every word that he is saying. Thanks to the controversy around Pranab Mukherjee landing at RSS headquarters, the nation is hooked to TV sets and watching his speech live. To his credit he is not letting this opportunity go.
  He began with by striking the right notes on several counts. Starting from explaining why Mukherjee was here at passing out parade of 750 new recruits, Bhagwat said, "Sangh will remain Sangh and Dr Mukherjee will remain Dr Mukherjee," despite the latters presence at an event hosted by an organisation which follows a different ideology
  He hailed Pranab Mukherjee’s credentials as a statesman and as a person. Secondly, he explained at lengh that RSS was not an organisation for Hindus but for all Indians. "How can one Indian be an alien to another Indian" and reminded that India has since time immemorial believed in 'unity in diversity'.
  He set the tone for right public narrative in his organization by saying that there has to divergence of views in a country as big as India but ultimately all were “sons of mother India” and thus have to work for advancement of India. 
• 19:56 (IST)
  Despite differences, we must work for betterment of same country, says Mohan Bhagwat
  "Everybody has the right to have a political opinion but there is a limit to have opposing opinion. We should realise that we are working for the betterment of the same country. No matter what our language, ideology, religion, RSS believes in welfare of the society,"  Bhagwat said. 
• 19:54 (IST)
  Government's can't do everything, citizens should also contribute, says Mohan Bhagwat 
  "Government alone cannot do everything. Citizens also have to contribute. Then only country can change. And the Sangh does not want to unite any particular section of the society but the entire society as such. And such consolidation does not happen by listening to a speech or reading some literature, albeit a constant effort is needed. And the Sangh is constantly working for this," Bhagwat said. 
• 19:49 (IST)
  Differences in opinion should not divide us, Mohan Bhagwat on Pranab Mukherjee's presence at RSS event
  "There should be, and could be a lot of differences in opinions and ways. There are times when we have differences. But we are all sons of the same soil. We are all the same even in this diversity," Bhagwat said. 
• 19:47 (IST)
  RSS wants to unite entire society, we celebrate diversity, says Mohan Bhagwat
  "The Sangh only wants to unite the entire society. We embrace all, we are not just for one section. RSS believes in unity in diversity. Every citizen born in India is an Indian. It is his right to worship our motherland. There have been many debates about Pranab Mukjherjee attending the event but we do not consider anyone different from ourselves. We Indian are all one and united," says Bhagwat 
• 19:43 (IST)
  No Indian an alien for us, says Mohan Bhagwat on controversy around invite to Pranab Mukherjee 
  "RSS invites well known people from various walks of life. The Sangh remains the Sangh and Dr Pranab Mukherjee remains Dr Pranab Mukherjee. We do not discriminate between Indian citizens. No Indian citizen is an alien for us. RSS believes in unity in diversity. Every citizen born in India is an Indian. It is his/her right to worship our motherland, Bhagwat said. 
• 19:38 (IST)
  Mohan Bhagwat gives opening note at event; welcomes ex-president
  "The RSS event takes place in the same way, year after year. We call important and respected dignitaries every year, those who can come grace the event with their presence. But all the discussion and opposition around who visits us and when, is meaningless," Bhagwat said. 
• 19:37 (IST)
  RSS was founded by KB Hedgewar on 25 September 1925
  Rashtriya Swayam Sangh started at KB Hedgewar's home on the day of Vijayadashami on 25 September 1925. Hedgewar, along with 17 others, convened the first meeting of the RSS. The Sangh shakha was later started in Mohitewada, Nagpur. 
  The name ‘Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’ was selected for the organisation on April 17, 1926 from a list of four names — Jaripatka Mandal, Bharat Uddharak Mandal, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.
• 19:30 (IST)
  Former president Pranab Mukherjee at RSS event 
  Image courtesy: Screenshot from RSSOrg Facebook Live
  
• 19:27 (IST)
  Family members of Lal Bahadur Shastri, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose also present at event 
   

  Special invitees, Sri Sunil Shastri, Sri Sanjay Lalbhai, Sri Challa RajendraPrasad, Sri Rajiv Malhotra, Sri Vishad Mafatlal , Sri Kalyan Chaubey, Sri Ardhendu Bose, have graciously participated in #RSSTritiyaVarsh valedictory program.

  — RSS (@RSSorg) June 7, 2018
• 19:19 (IST)
  InPictures: Pranab Mukherjee paid tribute to RSS ideologue Madhav Golwalkar
  ​