Science and Dharma Seek the Same Truth, Says RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Tirupati, Dec 2025 : Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday asserted that there is no contradiction between science and Dharma, emphasising that both ultimately strive to uncover the same universal truth, albeit through different methods. Addressing the Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan in Tirupati, Bhagwat underlined the need for an integrated understanding of scientific knowledge and spiritual wisdom.

He said the commonly perceived divide between science and Dharma arises from differences in methodology rather than in purpose. “There is no conflict between science and dharma. The paths may be different, but the destination is the same — the pursuit of truth,” he remarked, adding that both disciplines complement each other in understanding the nature of existence.

Bhagwat observed that Dharma is often incorrectly equated with religion, leading to widespread misunderstanding. Clarifying the concept, he said Dharma is not confined to religious practice but represents the fundamental law governing the functioning of the universe. “Dharma is not religion. It is the science by which creation operates. No one can function outside its framework,” he said.

The RSS chief noted that for a long time, science maintained a distance from Dharma under the assumption that spirituality had no place in scientific inquiry. He termed this approach fundamentally flawed, pointing out that modern science itself has begun exploring concepts such as consciousness, which were traditionally examined within spiritual thought.

“Science gives us knowledge and tools, but it is Dharma that teaches us how to use that knowledge responsibly,” Bhagwat said, stressing the importance of ethical application of scientific advancements. Without moral guidance, he warned, scientific progress could lead to destruction rather than collective welfare.

Referring to global development models, Bhagwat said that while developed nations have achieved material progress, it has often come at the cost of social imbalance and environmental damage. “Development should not create haves and have-nots,” he said, expressing disagreement with the idea of achieving the greatest good for the greatest number if it leaves sections of society behind.

He explained that Dharma offers a holistic vision of development, one that seeks balance and inclusivity by ensuring the well-being of all sections of society. Such a model, he said, is essential if India is to emerge as a global guide. “India will definitely march ahead, and it has to become the Vishwaguru,” Bhagwat asserted.

The four-day Bharatiya Vigyan Sammelan 2025 has brought together experts from the national scientific fraternity, academic institutions, and research organisations to deliberate on the integration of traditional knowledge systems with modern science. Around 900 delegates from across the country are participating in the event.

The national conclave is jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Education, Vijnana Bharati, Indian Knowledge Systems, the Andhra Pradesh Council of Science and Technology (APCOST), the National Innovation Foundation, and the National Sanskrit University, Tirupati.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh, NSA Board member G. Satheesh Reddy, and Vijnana Bharati President Sekhar C. Mande, among others, addressed the inaugural session.

Team Maverick.