New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on its centenary, noting that the organisation has never shown bitterness despite facing numerous attacks, remaining steadfast in its principle of “nation first.”
Addressing the centenary celebrations, Modi highlighted the RSS’s role in nation-building, emphasizing its outreach across the country to foster harmony, remove divisions of caste or creed, and promote an inclusive society.
“The Sangh resisted British atrocities, always driven by love for the nation,” Modi said, recalling that its volunteers sheltered freedom fighters and its leaders were imprisoned during the independence movement.
The prime minister acknowledged the challenges faced by the RSS, including false allegations, attempts to ban it, and other obstacles. “Despite these, the RSS has never harbored bitterness because it is part of a society that accepts both the good and the bad,” he said, referring indirectly to the post-Gandhi assassination ban.
He cited the example of former RSS chief Madhav Golwalkar, who was falsely imprisoned. “Yet, on his release, he said wisely: ‘At times, the tongue may get caught under the teeth, but we do not break teeth,’” Modi noted.
He also praised the RSS for its unwavering faith in democracy and constitutional institutions, which strengthened its members during difficult periods, including the Emergency.
As part of the centenary celebrations, Modi released a commemorative Rs 100 coin and a special postage stamp. The coin features the national emblem on one side, and on the other, a depiction of Bharat Mata in Varada Mudra with a lion, with swayamsevaks bowing in devotion. “For the first time in independent India, Bharat Mata is featured on Indian currency—a moment of historic pride,” he said.
Modi remarked that the RSS’s foundation on Vijaya Dashami 100 years ago symbolized the revival of a centuries-old tradition. “The Sangh has been synonymous with patriotism and service since its inception,” he said.
He added that while the RSS champions “One India, Great India,” post-Independence efforts were made to keep it from joining the national mainstream. “Unity in diversity has always been the soul of India. If this principle is broken, the nation weakens. Despite challenges, the RSS continues to serve tirelessly,” he asserted.
The centenary celebrations were organized by the Ministry of Culture and attended by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
Founded in 1925 in Nagpur by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS is a volunteer-based organisation promoting cultural awareness, discipline, service, and social responsibility. Modi himself was an RSS ‘pracharak’ before joining the BJP, which draws ideological inspiration from the Sangh.
