Foreigners ruled India for over 15 centuries; only British destroyed the country: RSS chief

Mangaluru, Mar 28: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) supremo Mohan M Bhagwat has embarrassed the saffronist historians by admitting that the British had destroyed India and not Muslims.

“Though India was under foreign rule for over 15 centuries, no one except the British had destroyed the very foundation of the country, starting from economy to administration and finally the education system,” said the Sarsanghchalak.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Ardha Mandala (24 years) celebrations of RSS-run Maitreye Gurukula at Kodangayi Moorukaje near Vittal in Bantwal taluk near here.

He said that Indian system of education is one of the best systems of education. “Gurukula system of education creates awareness on 'dharma' (righteousness). It teaches a life without selfish motive. The motive of education is to live for all and not for self. Such system of education should spread everywhere," he felt.

Bhagwat said India has many things to give to others thus deserving to become the Vishwa Guru while it does not need much from others. People everywhere have recognised the role of Guru, the teacher in education indirectly acknowledging the importance of Gurukula system.

While many did not get enough time to deliberate over the education system after Independence, now time has come to revisit traditional system of education that primarily aimed at making a human being, he said.

"Education is essential for a human being. Along with knowledge on science, one should have spiritual education. Teaching to smuggle is not an education. Teaching anti-national activities is against the motive of education. There has been an increase in teaching anti-national activities in the country which is a tragedy," he said.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of Art of Living said, "We need both modern and ancient knowledge. Patriotism and love for 'dharma' are like two faces of the same coin. There is a need to inculcate patriotism in young minds. Pranayama, Yoga and reciting mantras help in rejuvenating vagus nerve." Adichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana pontiff Sri Nirmalananda Swami was also present.