GenZ, Revolution & The idea of India Ft. Raju Parulekar

Is India's new generation challenging the old political order? Who really shapes the thinking of Indian society? And what does the future hold for the Idea of India? In this thought-provoking episode of Usman Decodes, we sit down with renowned political commentator, journalist and author Raju Parulekar for an in-depth conversation about the forces shaping contemporary India — from the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to the rise of Gen Z political consciousness, youth protests, ideological battles and the changing nature of Indian democracy. India is witnessing important debates about its identity, political culture and future. While established organisations continue to shape public discourse, a new generation is questioning authority, challenging existing narratives and demanding accountability. But are these developments signs of a deeper transformation in Indian society? Can Gen Z become a force for meaningful social and political change? And how should we understand the competing visions of India? What we discuss in this episode: 🔸 The RSS and Indian Society: How did the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh build its extensive grassroots network? What explains its influence on Indian society and political thinking? 🔸 The Changing RSS: How does the RSS associated with figures such as M.S. Golwalkar and V.D. Savarkar compare with the organisation under Mohan Bhagwat? What has changed in its messaging and approach? 🔸 Gen Z and the Politics of Protest: What explains the growing political consciousness of young Indians? Can youth-led movements influence India's political future? 🔸 Revolution and Social Change: What does meaningful revolution look like in a democratic society? Can a new generation challenge established political and ideological structures? 🔸 The CJP Movement: Raju Parulekar shares his critical observations and claims concerning the CJP movement, raising questions about public mobilisation, political narratives and the larger social context. 🔸 The Idea of India: What should India stand for? How can citizens with different religious, cultural and ideological perspectives contribute to building a better nation? 🔸 India's Future: What role should ordinary citizens, students, intellectuals and civil society play in shaping India's democracy and public discourse? This conversation goes beyond individual political parties and organisations. It attempts to understand the deeper questions confronting Indian society: Who influences public opinion? What shapes our collective identity? And who will define India's future? Raju Parulekar offers his perspectives, interpretations and critical observations on these questions, inviting viewers to think beyond familiar political narratives. About Usman Decodes Usman Decodes is a platform dedicated to exploring socio-political, educational and economic issues that matter to Indian society. Through meaningful conversations, independent analysis and engaging stories, we aim to encourage informed public discourse and bring important perspectives to a wider audience. Perspectives that matter. Stories that inspire. Join the conversation Do you believe India's Gen Z can bring meaningful social and political change? What does the Idea of India mean to you? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments. Like this episode if you found the conversation insightful. Subscribe to Usmandecodes for more podcasts, interviews and discussions on Indian politics, society, democracy, history and current affairs. Share this conversation with friends, students and anyone interested in understanding India's changing political and social landscape. Disclaimer: The opinions, interpretations and claims expressed by the guest are his own and are presented as part of an open public discussion. #RajuParulekar #UsmanDecodes #GenZIndia #IdeaOfIndia #IndianPolitics #RSS #IndianDemocracy #YouthPolitics #PoliticalPodcast #IndiaFuture #SocialChange #GenZProtests #IndianSociety #MohanBhagwat #nationbuilding 0:00:00 - 0:02:55 Intro & Precap 0:02:56 - 0:04:32 My legacy 0:04:33 - 0:11:45 Thoughts on Revolution 0:11:46 - 0:18:32 My first love & why 0:18:33 - 0:20:46 Indian situation, whose plan? 0:20:47 - 0:23:31 Bhagwat & RSS 0:23:32 - 0:34:13 The virus that controls India & its antidote 0:34:14 - 0:37:30 The GenZ is missing something. 0:37:31 - 0:55:26 Decoding CJP, Dhruv Rathee & third front 0:55:27 - 1:01:38 The octopus of Indian politics 1:01:39 - 1:02:45 International pressure wont work 1:02:46 - 1:07:05 Idea of India 1:07:06 - 1:12:50 The virus, its quality and how it spreads 1:12:52 - 1:14:07 The most exciting part