Dr. Mohanan Kunnummel, Vice Chancellor of Kerala University of Health Services and officiating head of Kerala University, spoke at Manvila in Thiruvananthapuram. He stated that people who recognize their mother sing Vande Mataram, while those who do not will refrain. He addressed the Sankalp 2026 Yuva Sangamam organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Before speaking, he lit a traditional lamp in front of a Bharat Mata image on the stage. Dr. Kunnummel noted that both parents share responsibility for raising children as responsible citizens, with mothers bearing greater duties. He added that Bharat serves as the mother of all Indians, which explains why Vande Mataram is performed. He observed that society is experiencing significant shifts, and the state will undergo similar changes. Children should choose their own fields of study, he said, and the nation will support their efforts. The RSS is holding youth gatherings across Dakshin Pranth as part of its centenary events. These cover districts including Ernakulam, Kottayam, Idukki, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram, with sessions scheduled for August 14 to 16, 2026. Activities include patriotic songs, rallies, presentations on Akhand Bharat, Bharat Mata worship and cultural programs. District and taluk events target participants aged 18 to 28. The Manvila and Ettumanoor gatherings stand out among them. The programs have drawn hundreds of Gen Z attendees, signaling a shift toward messages of nationalism and patriotism. Participants appear guided by national figures rather than opposing influences.
