RSS Initiative To Revive Family Bonding, Values

Dr.  Shailendra Kumar Pathak

In a rapidly evolving world, family structures and values are undergoing significant transformations. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a prominent socio-cultural organization in Bharat, has recognized the importance of preserving and revitalizing family values amidst the encroaching influences of Western lifestyles, consumerism, and woke culture. Through its Family Awakening Programme, the RSS aims to reconnect Bharatiya families with their cultural roots, drawing inspiration from ancient Hindu scriptures and multi millennia long civilizational experiences.

In Bharatiya culture, the family has always been the cornerstone of societal structure. This belief is deeply rooted in Bharatiya spiritual worldview, where the family represents the initial step in the journey from “Me to We.” The traditional Bharatiya family, often extended and inclusive of multiple generations living under one roof, is rooted in values such as respect for elders, filial piety, communal harmony, and moral integrity. These values are not merely social constructs but are deeply embedded in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the nation.

Family and its values are the key architects of shaping individuals’ personalities and moral compasses. They provide a framework for personal development, ethical behavior, and emotional stability. On a broader scale, strong family values contribute to societal cohesion, reducing crime rates and promoting social harmony and National progress . Studies have shown that children raised in families with strong value systems tend to exhibit higher levels of academic achievement, emotional intelligence, and resilience.

The foreign invasions, intruder’s rule and the globalization wave have brought Western lifestyles into Bharatiya homes, often clashing with traditional values. While modernization and technological advancements have their merits, the uncritical adoption of Western lifestyles leads to a dilution of family bonds. Individualism, a hallmark of Western culture, often prioritizes personal goals over collective family interests, leading to fragmented family units.

Consumerism, an integral element of western life style which is characterized by the relentless pursuit of material possessions, has significantly impacted family dynamics. The pressure to acquire and consume often diverts attention from familial relationships. Parents, engrossed in their careers to meet consumer demands, may inadvertently neglect their children’s emotional needs, leading to a lack of familial cohesion and support.

The rising wave of Woke culture in pretext of social justice and political correctness, inclusiveness and equality has led to generational rifts within families. It is developing a common perception among new generations that Traditional values are outdated or regressive. This cultural shift is leading not only to conflicts between older and younger generations but blocking the intergenerational transmission of values and wisdom.

Restoring family values and strong bonds is crucial in maintaining social stability and preventing the erosion of cultural and moral foundations. Families serve as the primary unit of socialization, instilling values, traditions, and a sense of belonging that strengthens individual identity and community cohesion. When family bonds are strong, individuals are less likely to seek meaning or identity in external influences such as religious conversion or the often polarizing narratives of woke culture. A solid family foundation provides emotional support, moral guidance, and a sense of purpose, which are essential in resisting trends that can lead to social fragmentation, individual isolation, and even national decline. By reinforcing these values, society can foster a more resilient and unified nation, capable of withstanding divisive influences.

The RSS’s ‘Kutumb Prabodhan’ Initiative

The RSS, inspired by Bharat’s glorious cultural heritage and ancient Hindu scriptures, has launched the Family Awakening Programme popularly known as ‘Kutumb Probodhan’ to revitalize the traditional Bharatiya family structure by reconnecting individuals with their cultural and spiritual roots. The ‘initiative was conceived by the RSS as part of its broader mission to strengthen the social fabric of Bharat. The RSS has always placed a strong emphasis on cultural nationalism and societal cohesion. The family is considered the most fundamental and important unit of Bharatiya society, and the RSS launched ‘Kutumb Prabodhan’ to reinforce family bonds and instill traditional values.

The philosophy of ‘Kutumb Prabodhan’ is deeply rooted in Bharatiya cultural and spiritual traditions. It draws inspiration from ancient texts, teachings, and practices that emphasize the importance of family as the cornerstone of society.

The concept of “Kutumb” (family) holds a significant place in Hindu culture and scriptures. It is seen not just as a social unit but as a foundation for spiritual and moral values.

• In Sanatan Dharma, Kutumb refers to the family unit, including immediate family and extended relatives. The family is considered the first school of life where one learns dharma (righteousness), artha (prosperity), kama (desires), and moksha (liberation).
• The family is a microcosm of the universe, reflecting the divine order and principles of Hindu philosophy.

• The Vedas, the oldest Hindu scriptures, emphasize the importance of family in maintaining social order and transmitting knowledge and cultural values.
• “Mata Ramo Mata Sita, Mata Lakshmi Mata Vani; Mata Rudra Mata Sarasvati.” This shloka from Rigveda highlights the reverence for family members, equating them with divine figures, showcasing the sanctity of familial bonds.

• The Upanishads, which focus on spiritual knowledge and philosophy, stress the importance of family as a means to understand deeper truths.
• Aham Brahmasmi” (Brihadaranyaka Upanishad 1.4.14) While this shloka directly means “I am Brahman,” it also implies the interconnectedness of all beings, starting from the family unit.

• The Ramayana extensively illustrates the ideal family values through the lives of Rama, Sita, and their relations. “Pitruvakyam pramanam” Shloka from Ramayana states that the words of the father are the utmost authority. This underscores the respect and obedience towards parents and elders within the family structure.
• The Mahabharata presents complex family dynamics and emphasizes dharma within familial roles. “Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava” a Shloka from Mahabharata (Anushasana Parva, Chapter 7, Verse 17) translates to “Revere your mother and father as gods,” underscoring the veneration of parents.
• The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the Mahabharata, addresses the conflict between familial duties and higher spiritual goals. “Adharmaabhibhavaat Krishna pradhushyanti kulastriyah; Strishu dushtaasu vaarshneya jaayate varnasankarah.” a Shloka from Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 41, warns of the consequences of adharma (unrighteousness) leading to the degradation of family values and societal chaos.

The RSS initiatives draw its inspirations from these scriptures and adopts a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing that family health is not just physical but also emotional, psychological, and spiritual.

Key Initiatives and Activities

• Regular events such as Ram Naam Sankirtan, Navratri celebrations, and World Yoga Day activities form the core of ‘Kutumb Prabodhan’. These events celebrate Bharatiya traditions and promote family participation in cultural practices.
• Training sessions and camps for RSS volunteers, known as Kutumb Mitra, are integral to the initiative. These sessions enhance volunteers’ skills in promoting family harmony and addressing modern challenges.
• The involvement of spiritual leaders provides depth and perspective to the initiative. Camps and events featuring renowned gurus offer guidance on personal development and family well-being.
• The initiative includes modern interventions such as counseling services, smartphone management programs, and digital platforms for family engagement. These efforts ensure that ‘Kutumb Prabodhan’ remains relevant in addressing contemporary issues.
• Extensive community outreach programs involve neighboring families in various activities, promoting unity and collective action. Initiatives like Kutumb Mitra Milan and Matrishakti Sammelan facilitate community bonding and support.

The RSS Kutumb Prabodhan (Family Awakening) programme has seen notable success in fostering family values and unity across India. In Pune, a middle-class family, struggling with generational communication gaps, found renewed harmony after participating in the programme’s workshops. The sessions emphasized mutual respect and understanding, leading to improved relationships between the younger and older members. Similarly, in Lucknow, a family dealing with the pressures of modern life used the principles taught by Kutumb Prabodhan to prioritize quality time together, resulting in strengthened bonds and a more supportive home environment. In a rural village in Madhya Pradesh, the programme’s emphasis on cultural and moral values helped a family overcome internal conflicts, promoting peace and collaboration in their household. There several thousand similar family betterment success stories by the RSS’s initiatives. The RSS family awakening program’s holistic approach, combining education, community service, and spiritual guidance, has made a tangible impact on numerous families across Bharat.

In a world where family structures and values are increasingly challenged by external forces, the RSS’s Family Awakening Programme stands as a beacon of hope. By reconnecting families with their cultural and spiritual heritage, the RSS aims to restore the sanctity of the family unit and promote a more harmonious and fulfilling human existence. The teachings of ancient Bharatiya Hindu scriptures offer timeless wisdom that can guide families in nurturing values, fostering unity, and achieving collective well-being. As families across Bharat embrace these initiatives, the vision of a society rooted in strong family values and cultural pride becomes increasingly attainable.

References

1. Bhattacharya, R. (2014). Indian Family Systems, Collectivistic Society and Psychotherapy. Delhi: Springer India.
2. Desai, S., & Dubey, A. (2011). Caste in 21st Century India: Competing Narratives. Economic and Political Weekly, 46(11), 40-49.
3. Ghosh, A. (2016). The Great Indian Family: New Roles, Old Responsibilities. Routledge.
4. Kumar, N. (2013). Family, Kinship, and Marriage in India. Oxford University Press.
5. Sharma, U. (1997). The Family in India: Critical Essays. Orient Longman.
6. Singh, K. (2008). The Vedas: An Introduction. Penguin Books India.
7. Sivananda, S. (1999). Bhagavad Gita: A Divine Life Commentary. The Divine Life Society.
8. Tripathi, S. (2015). Exploring the Indian Family: Theoretical and Methodological Issues. SAGE Publications.

(Author is a Delhi based researcher, Political Analyst & formerly an Assistant Professor of Political Science)

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