The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has completed a hundred years of its journey. From its humble beginnings in 1925 under the visionary leadership of Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, the Sangh today stands as the world’s largest voluntary organisation. Its centenary is not just a celebration of longevity but of unflinching commitment to nation-building, social harmony, and selfless service. Over the past century, the RSS has faced criticism, opposition, bans, and allegations. Yet, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi rightly noted, it never allowed bitterness to cloud its mission of putting the nation first. Its resilience, rooted in discipline, character-building, and a sense of oneness with society, has allowed it to withstand every storm while remaining dedicated to India’s unity and progress.
The founding vision of the RSS was simple but profound-nation-building through individual character-building. Hedgewar believed that a strong and united India could emerge only when citizens cultivated discipline, selflessness, and social responsibility. Daily Shakhas, where Swayamsevaks gather to practise physical exercise, imbibe patriotic songs, and engage in dialogue, are not merely drills but a living embodiment of this philosophy. Generations of Swayamsevaks have emerged from these gatherings as responsible citizens, leaders, and social workers, committed to strengthening the social fabric of the nation. This commitment to discipline and service explains why so many Swayamsevaks have gone on to play key roles in various spheres of national life-from politics and governance to education, science, and grassroots development. The Sangh’s ethos is not confined to ideological discourse but translates into practical contributions to society.
From the British days of struggle, when Hedgewar himself went to jail, to the sacrifices of thousands of Swayamsevaks during the Emergency, the RSS has consistently borne the brunt of political repression with patience and dignity. RSS leaders, including Guru Golwalkar, were jailed and yet emerged without rancour, upholding their faith in democracy and the Constitution.
If there is one defining feature of the RSS century-long journey, it is its extraordinary service to society in times of crisis. During the 1962 war with China, Swayamsevaks volunteered to support the armed forces, providing logistical help and boosting morale. In 1971, when lakhs of refugees fled from East Pakistan into India, RSS volunteers were among the first to reach border villages, distributing food, offering medical aid, and sharing the pain of displaced families. Similarly, in 1984, during one of the darkest chapters of communal violence in independent India, Swayamsevaks gave shelter and protection to Sikh families in distress. More recently, during natural disasters-whether the Gujarat earthquake of 2001, the Kerala floods, or the COVID-19 pandemic-RSS volunteers have been among the first to mobilise relief, deliver essentials, and assist victims irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. This selfless service has earned the organisation admiration not only from its supporters but also from eminent figures across the spectrum.
The RSS centenary is also an occasion to reflect on its vision for social harmony. From Hedgewar’s time to the present leadership under Mohan Bhagwat, the Sangh has worked tirelessly to eradicate untouchability, bridge caste divides, and promote inclusivity. Bhagwat’s call for “one well, one temple, one cremation ground” is a symbolic yet powerful expression of the RSS commitment to a discrimination-free society. Through its affiliates, the Sangh has promoted education in remote areas, uplifted tribal communities, and encouraged rural development. Its belief in “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” underscores its mission to keep India united amidst diversity.
Marking the centenary with a commemorative coin and postage stamp is more than a symbolic gesture-it is recognition of the RSS contribution to India’s social and cultural life. As the RSS enters its second century, its challenge and responsibility will be to continue working for social unity, service, and national pride while adapting to the needs of a rapidly changing India. The RSS has stood like a banyan tree, providing shade and shelter to countless lives. Its centenary is not just its celebration but a moment for the nation to acknowledge a century of unwavering dedication to humanity and Bharat Mata.
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