The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is gearing up for its centenary celebrations, marking 100 years since its founding in 1925. As part of these celebrations, the RSS will host a series of dialogues and events, with a central focus on the organization's history, its role in nation-building, and its vision for the future. However, it has been confirmed that embassies of Pakistan, Turkey, and Bangladesh will not be invited to these events.
The centenary celebrations will feature a three-day dialogue in Delhi starting August 26, led by Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat. This event will delve into the RSS's century-long journey and its contributions to India. Bhagwat's address in Delhi will be the first of four major events leading up to the Vijayadashami centenary on October 2. Similar dialogues are planned for Bengaluru in November, followed by Kolkata and Mumbai. Each dialogue will include two days of lectures by Bhagwat and a third day for a question-and-answer session. These discussions will cover the RSS's past experiences, core ideologies, and future priorities. The Delhi program will also address the "Panch Parivartan" (Five Transformations) agenda for the centenary year, with Bhagwat expected to discuss India's development based on its own strengths, untapped potential, and its evolving global role.
The decision not to invite Pakistan, Turkey, and Bangladesh is attributed to the current geopolitical climate. Relations between India and Pakistan, as well as Bangladesh, are strained. Furthermore, Turkey's growing defense collaborations with Pakistan have further complicated the situation. While the RSS is engaging with various embassies, the prevailing consensus is that the environment is not conducive to extending invitations to these three countries.
The invitation list for the centenary celebrations includes a wide array of individuals from various fields. Representatives from minority communities, sports and cultural figures, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs in emerging fields like Indian knowledge systems and startups are expected to attend. According to RSS Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar, the list spans approximately 17 main categories and 138 sub-categories, encompassing social, economic, religious, spiritual, sports, arts, media, and intellectual leaders. The RSS aims to connect with people from all walks of life and foster dialogue with all sections of society. Over 1,000 "pramukh nagarik goshtis" (eminent citizen meetings) will be held across districts, in addition to the main city events, to encourage broad participation in these discussions.
The RSS is undertaking several initiatives to mark its centenary year. These include efforts to expand its network of "shakhas" (branches) from the current 68,000 to 100,000. The organization also intends to increase its reach to every village and house. As part of these efforts, discussions on social festivals, unity, harmony, and the "Panch Parivartan" will be held. Additionally, "Samajik Sadbhav Baithaks" (Social harmony meetings) will be organized in numerous blocks and towns to promote social harmony.
