RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat advocates harmony between spirituality and science, says 'no reason for conflict'

NEW DELHI: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat asserted on Tuesday that spirituality and science are not in opposition, as both domains require faith to achieve justice.
During the book launch of "Banayen Jeevan Praanwaan," written by RSS Pracharak Mukul Kanitkar, alongside Swami Avadheshanand Giri, Bhagwat criticised the overreliance on sensory perception as the sole source of truth. He said, "For the past 2,000 years, the world has been influenced by arrogance. Humanity has believed that knowledge acquired through sensory perception is the only truth, particularly since the advent of modern science. However, this perspective is incomplete. Science has its limits, and it is erroneous to assume that nothing exists beyond its scope."
He emphasised introspection as a key element of Indian Sanatan culture and a path to discovering life's truths. Bhagwat stated that spirituality and science are not in conflict. "By delving deeply into inner experiences, we have discovered life's truths. There is no reason for conflict between this approach and science. Spirituality also adheres to the principle of 'know before you believe,' though its methods differ. In spirituality, the tool is the mind, whose energy stems from prana (life force). The stronger this life force, the more capable one becomes of progressing on the spiritual path," he explained.
Bhagwat also said that understanding the consciousness within every particle allows for a holistic view of life, a perspective he believes the world needs. "Every particle possesses consciousness and is therefore pure. This understanding has allowed us to offer a holistic vision of life. Today, the world also requires such a perspective. It is our responsibility to provide it, and we are fully capable of doing so."
He connected this life force, or 'praan shakti,' to national identity, citing India's response to global crises as an example. "Whether at the national or personal level, tapas is necessary. At its root lies 'praan shakti' (life force). India possesses a unique 'praan shakti' that exists before our eyes, though we often fail to recognise it. This life force is present in every individual and every aspect of existence. It was evident on January 22, the day of the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir. Whenever the world faces a crisis, India responds swiftly, whether the nation in question is a friend or an adversary. This is not a coincidence. The praan driving India's consciousness is visible, and it forms the identity of our nation," added Bhagwat.