The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is currently celebrating its centenary year, marking 100 years since its establishment in 1925. The celebrations commenced on August 26, 2025, with a three-day lecture series by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat in New Delhi. The theme of the event is "100 Years Journey of RSS: New Horizons". Dignitaries including Yoga guru Ramdev, JDU leader KC Tyagi, Bollywood actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, and Union ministers Jyotiraditya Scindia and Anupriya Patel attended the inaugural event.
Mohan Bhagwat paid tribute to the organization's founder, Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, calling him "a patriot by birth". Bhagwat reflected on India's history, nationalism, and the RSS's role in shaping the future. He emphasized that discussions about the RSS should be based on "facts, not perceptions". Bhagwat highlighted that the RSS was founded with the clear purpose of serving India ("Bharat") and that its journey has been marked by challenges and growth, leading to its current vision for the future.
Bhagwat traced the roots of India's nationalist movements to the Revolt of 1857, which he described as a "failed war of independence" that nonetheless awakened consciousness among Indians. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by revolutionaries and praised Vinayak Damodar Savarkar as a "luminous gem" of that era. He also noted that the revolutionary current subsided after independence, giving way to politics as a tool for freedom, which eventually led to the formation of the Indian National Congress. Bhagwat suggested that India's political evolution might have been different if the Congress movement had enlightened the path correctly after independence.
Bhagwat clarified the meaning of "Hindu," stating that it is a civilizational term, not a religious one, and that Hindus are those who feel responsible for the country. He emphasized inclusivity, stating that the RSS's purpose is to organize the entire society and that the term "Hindu" should not be interpreted as exclusionary. He quoted M.S. Golwalkar, stating that even if Muslims and Christians do not live in a village, the RSS's shakha is for service, not for harming anyone. Bhagwat also stressed that the RSS does not control its volunteers ("swayamsevaks") and that their good work is their own credit, while the organization shares the blame for any shortcomings.
Bhagwat underscored the importance of social transformation for India's progress and stated that the "dharma" of Indians, and of the RSS, is "samanwaya" – to build a consensus, not conflict or struggle. He said the DNA of those living in India for over 40,000 years is characterized by a disposition to live in harmony.
The RSS has planned extensive public outreach events to mark its centenary year, including organizing more than one lakh "Hindu sammelans" across the country. There are also plans for a nationwide door-to-door public contact program. The organization aims to reach every block in every state across the country. The RSS considers its local branches (shakhas) its greatest strength and aims to increase the number of shakhas to over one lakh this year.
The RSS was founded in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur. Hedgewar was influenced by Hindu nationalist ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and sought to create a disciplined cadre dedicated to independence and the protection of Hindu interests. The RSS presents itself as a cultural organization that promotes a Hindu nationalistic agenda. It has historically played a significant role in the Hindu nationalist movement. The RSS has been involved in various social activities, including disaster relief, rural development, and educational initiatives. The organization runs numerous schools that promote traditional Hindu values and Indian culture. The RSS also emphasizes patriotism, discipline, physical fitness, and moral integrity.
