RSS leader Suresh Joshi says those who revere Aurangzeb are free to visit his tomb

RSS Leader Suresh Joshi Sparks Debate with Aurangzeb Tomb Remark

Senior RSS leader Suresh Joshi has ignited a fresh controversy with his comments about Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, stating that those who admire the controversial historical figure are welcome to visit his tomb but should not expect his legacy to be celebrated nationally. Speaking at a cultural event in Gujarat, Joshi argued that India must move beyond glorifying rulers known for religious persecution and instead focus on indigenous heroes who resisted oppression.  

Joshi's remarks came during a discussion about historical narratives in contemporary India. "Aurangzeb's reign was marked by temple destruction, forced conversions, and the jizya tax on non-Muslims," Joshi said. "While history cannot be changed, we certainly shouldn't be honoring figures who represent intolerance and bigotry." The RSS leader emphasized that India's future lies in celebrating unifying figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji and Guru Gobind Singh rather than divisive emperors.  

The comments drew immediate reactions across the political spectrum. BJP leaders supported Joshi's stance, with party spokesperson Rajiv Tandon stating, "We must correct historical distortions that have whitewashed tyrants." However, opposition leaders accused the RSS of selectively interpreting history for political purposes. AIMIM's Asim Ahmed countered, "This is another attempt to rewrite history to fit a particular ideology. Aurangzeb was a complex figure who also patronized Hindu temples and officials."  

Historians remain divided on the issue. While some scholars point to documented evidence of Aurangzeb's religious policies, others argue his reign was more nuanced than contemporary portrayals suggest. The debate has spilled onto social media, with #AurangzebLegacy trending as users passionately debate how modern India should remember its Mughal past.  

The controversy comes amid ongoing efforts to reassess historical narratives in India, including renaming cities and landmarks associated with Mughal rulers. Joshi's remarks have added fuel to this larger conversation about which figures from India's past deserve public commemoration and how history should inform national identity in the 21st century.