On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) by praising its unwavering dedication to the principle of ‘nation first’ despite numerous adversities. The event took place at the RSS headquarters, where Modi highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in fostering national harmony.
Modi noted that the RSS has significantly contributed to nation-building over the past century. He underscored the Sangh’s efforts to bridge divides caused by caste and creed. “The Sangh has fought against British atrocities and provided shelter to freedom fighters,” he remarked while acknowledging Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder of RSS, who faced imprisonment during the struggle for independence.
The Prime Minister reflected on the challenges faced by the RSS, including bans and false allegations, emphasizing that it never nurtured bitterness. He quoted former RSS chief Madhav Golwalkar’s wisdom after facing similar false accusations: “At times, the tongue may get caught under the teeth, but we do not break the teeth.”
During the Emergency, the RSS exemplified resilience and affirmed its faith in democratic principles. Modi stated that two core values, unity with society and trust in constitutional institutions, have maintained the sangh’s composure through various crises.
In a historic moment, Modi released a special ₹100 commemorative coin and an accompanying postal stamp to mark this significant milestone. The coin features the national emblem on one side and, for the first time in independent India, prominently displays Bharat Mata in Varada Mudra alongside a lion and swayamsevaks expressing devotion.
“This is a moment of great pride as Bharat Mata has been featured on Indian currency for the first time,” Modi expressed, highlighting the cultural significance of this representation.
Further, Modi reminisced about the Sangh’s contributions in pivotal moments in history, such as the 1962 war, the 1971 refugee crisis, and the riots in 1984. He praised the organization’s enduring commitment to ideals of equality and compassion, emphasizing Mohan Bhagwat, the current Sarsanghchalak, for advocating “one well, one temple, one cremation ground” as a remedy to discrimination.
Dattatreya Hosabale, general secretary of the RSS, acknowledged the government’s recognition of the Sangh’s century-long service. He described the commemorative coin and stamp as tributes to the selfless efforts of swayamsevaks since 1925.
