Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during its centenary celebrations on Wednesday in New Delhi, highlighting its unwavering principle of ‘nation first.’ This historic event showcased the organization’s resilience despite various challenges and attacks over the past century.
Speaking at the celebrations, Modi emphasized the RSS’s significant contributions to nation-building. He recognized its role in promoting social harmony by breaking caste and creed barriers. He stated, ‘The Sangh has fought against British atrocities, gave shelter to freedom fighters, and its founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar was jailed several times during the freedom struggle.’
The Prime Minister noted that the RSS has faced numerous adversities, including bans and false accusations. Yet, he said, it has always maintained a spirit free of bitterness. Modi recalled the wise words of former RSS chief Madhav Golwalkar, who famously remarked, “At times, the tongue may get caught under the teeth, but we do not break the teeth.”
Modi highlighted the Sangh’s resilience during the Emergency and underscored its faith in democratic principles. He asserted, ‘Two core values – oneness with society and faith in constitutional institutions – have kept swayamsevaks composed in every crisis.’
In honour of this significant milestone, PM Modi launched a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a postal stamp. The coin features the national emblem on one side and, marking a first in independent India, depicts Bharat Mata in Varada Mudra, accompanied by a lion and swayamsevaks in reverence. The postal stamp illustrates the RSS’s involvement in the 1963 Republic Day Parade.
“This is a moment of great pride as Bharat Mata has been featured on Indian currency for the first time,” Modi exclaimed during the event.
Further, the Prime Minister reminisced about the RSS’s dedicated service during the 1962 war, the 1971 refugee crisis, and the 1984 communal riots. He acknowledged the organization’s lasting commitment to equality, compassion, and unity. Modi highlighted current Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat’s vision of ‘one well, one temple, one cremation ground’ as an important initiative towards promoting social cohesion and ending discrimination.
RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale expressed gratitude to the government for recognizing the Sangh’s century-long contributions. He described the coin and stamp as a heartfelt tribute to the selfless dedication of swayamsevaks since the organization’s inception in 1925. Hosabale’s remarks echo the sentiments of many who view the RSS as an integral pillar in shaping India’s socio-political landscape.
