At the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) centenary celebrations in Nagpur on October 2, 2025, former President Ram Nath Kovind invoked the words of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, emphasizing the RSS's commitment to social justice and unity. Kovind's address highlighted the ideological alignment between the RSS and B.R. Ambedkar, a key figure in India's social reform movement.

Kovind recalled a "Dalit Sangam" rally held at the Red Fort in 2001, where Vajpayee declared that his government would be guided by "Bhim Smriti" (the Constitution of India) rather than "Manusmriti". Kovind quoted Vajpayee as saying, "We are Bhimwadis, meaning followers of Ambedkar". He asserted that Vajpayee's address played a crucial role in dispelling misinformation and countering the perception of the RSS as anti-Dalit. Kovind emphasized the RSS's active role in promoting social unity and reform.

Kovind lauded the RSS for transcending caste divisions and highlighted his personal experiences with the organization. He recounted his association with the RSS during the 1991 general election, noting that he found Sangh office bearers and Swayamsevaks to be the most forthcoming, committed, and free from caste barriers. Kovind expressed his belief that misconceptions about the RSS need to be addressed.

Mohan Bhagwat, the RSS chief, also invoked Ambedkar in his address, emphasizing India's inherent cultural unity and cautioning against forces that could create unrest. He stressed the importance of unity, self-reliance, and cultural vision.

Kovind's address also referenced Mahatma Gandhi's positive impressions of the RSS, particularly the absence of discrimination within the organization. He mentioned Gandhi's visit to an RSS camp in 1947, where he was moved by the discipline, simplicity, and elimination of untouchability.

The event underscored the RSS's efforts to align its ideology with Ambedkar's principles and promote social inclusion. Kovind described both Ambedkar and RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar as "nation builders".