PM Modi Reflects on 100 Years of RSS, Calls it a Century of Selfless Service and Nation Building.
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic milestone in India’s socio-political landscape today, sharing his reflections on the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which completes 100 years since its founding on Vijaya Dashami in 1925.
In an article published on his official website and shared via social media platform X, the Prime Minister hailed the RSS as a movement dedicated to “selfless service, character building, and nation building.” Founded by Dr. K.B. Hedgewar in Nagpur, the RSS has grown into one of the world’s largest voluntary organizations, influencing multiple facets of Indian society over the past century.
“A Century of Devotion to the Nation”
In his post, Prime Minister Modi wrote:
“On Vijaya Dashami, a hundred years ago, the RSS was born with the aim of working towards serving society and nation building. Over a hundred years, innumerable Swayamsevaks devoted their lives towards fulfilling this vision. Here are my thoughts.”
In Hindi, he added:
“आज से 100 साल पहले विजयादशमी के दिन ही समाज सेवा और राष्ट्र निर्माण के उद्देश्य से राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघ की स्थापना हुई थी। लंबे कालखंड के दौरान असंख्य स्वयंसेवकों ने इस संकल्प को साकार करने के लिए अपना जीवन समर्पित कर दिया। इसे लेकर मैंने अपने विचारों को शब्दों में ढालने का प्रयास किया है…”
The article reflects on the journey of the RSS from its humble beginnings in 1925 to becoming a pillar of civic engagement and nationalist thought in modern India. Modi acknowledged the organization’s contribution to disaster relief, rural development, education, and promotion of indigenous culture and values.
RSS: From Grassroots Movement to National Influence
The RSS, originally formed with a vision of uniting Hindus and building a culturally rooted society, has grown to inspire a vast network of affiliated organizations known collectively as the “Sangh Parivar.” Its influence extends into education, labour unions, tribal outreach, and politics—most notably through its ideological proximity to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently in power.
While the organization has faced criticism and controversy over the decades, it has also been praised for its disciplined structure, commitment to volunteerism, and efforts in social upliftment. PM Modi himself began his public life as a Swayamsevak of the RSS before joining the BJP.
Modi’s Enduring Connection with the RSS
Modi’s tribute is seen not only as a personal reflection but also as a reaffirmation of his deep-rooted connection with the RSS ideology. He highlighted the values of service (“sewa”), unity, and cultural pride that have guided the organization for a century.
The post has garnered significant engagement across social media, with BJP leaders, ministers, and thousands of supporters echoing the sentiment and paying homage to the organization that has been central to the ideological framework of the current government.
Looking Ahead: RSS in the 21st Century
As the RSS steps into its second century, questions loom about how it will evolve in a rapidly changing India—especially in areas like digital engagement, youth outreach, and navigating pluralism in a globalized world. Observers note that the centenary offers the Sangh both a moment of celebration and introspection.
The organization has planned a series of events throughout 2025–26 to commemorate its 100-year journey, including nationwide public outreach programs, historical exhibitions, and ideological seminars aimed at showcasing its legacy and future vision.
