Bhatkal: Former Member of Parliament Anant Kumar Hegde returned to the public stage after nearly two years and delivered a fiery speech at the “Hindu Sangama” gathering held in Bhatkal on Saturday.
Addressing a large crowd near the old bus stand in the coastal town, the former Union minister stirred controversy with remarks about electoral defeats and the need for Hindu unity.
Hegde, who had largely remained silent in public after being denied a ticket in the previous Lok Sabha elections, used the platform to strongly advocate what he described as cultural and ideological unity among Hindus. His speech drew loud reactions from supporters present at the event.
“We were not defeated by Muslims or Christians. It was Hindus who defeated us,” Hegde said while referring to political setbacks faced by nationalist forces. He compared such internal divisions to historical betrayals and warned that lack of unity could weaken the community.
During his address, Hegde also spoke about caste and merit, arguing that Indian tradition historically valued ability over caste identity. “Nearly 90 percent of sages were not Brahmins. Valmiki and Vishwamitra were not Brahmins.
In this country, merit was always valued more than caste,” he said, urging people to revisit historical texts to understand India’s cultural foundations.
The former MP also offered his interpretation of secularism, claiming that Hindu civilization had historically been inclusive. “If people from other nations were allowed to build mosques and churches here, who can be more secular than us?” he said, adding that critics should try preaching secularism in countries like Bangladesh.
Hegde also defended the role of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, stating that attempts to eliminate the organisation would never succeed. “Those who believe they can finish the RSS are living in an illusion. A tiger or lion is never offered as sacrifice to a deity; only a sheep is. Our organisation cannot be stopped by anyone,” he declared.
The speech also touched upon the growing global interest in Indian culture. Hegde claimed that festivals such as Ganesh celebrations were being observed enthusiastically even in countries like Africa, while people in rural China show deep respect for Indian traditions.
According to organisers, more than 3,000 people attended the event. Considering the sensitivity of the gathering and the large turnout, local authorities deployed tight security arrangements across Bhatkal town.
Hegde also expressed concern about the current education system, stating that education should not be pursued merely for earning money but must help build character and values. He urged the youth to focus on disciplined and culturally rooted lifestyles.
The speech has once again brought Hegde into the political spotlight, with observers speculating whether the former MP is preparing for a return to active politics in the coming months.
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