New Delhi: The RSS has dedicated the past 100 years to becoming the largest voluntary organisation in the country, overcoming opposition with the support and affection of the people, said its General Secretary, Dattatreya Hosabale, on Wednesday. His remarks came just before Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative postage stamp and coin to mark the centenary of the RSS.
Expressing gratitude to the government for the gesture, Hosabale described it as recognition of the Sangh’s “selfless” service. He noted that since its founding by Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar on Vijayadashmi in 1925, the Sangh and its swayamsevaks have worked tirelessly, without self-interest, on nation-building through individual character development.
Addressing an event organised by the Union Culture Ministry, Hosabale said, “It is a matter of joy for the Sangh’s swayamsevaks and patriots that the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, chose to release a postage stamp and coin to commemorate this special occasion. On behalf of all swayamsevaks, including those living abroad, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.”
He highlighted that recognising the contributions of individuals and organisations has long been a tradition in India. “Through this gesture, the government has acknowledged the Sangh’s work on behalf of the people of Bharat on the occasion of its centenary,” he added.
Reflecting on the RSS’s century-long journey, Hosabale called it “interesting” and credited its progress to the love, support, and acceptance of its ideas by the nation’s people. “The Sangh has faced indifference, opposition, struggles, and challenges, but since its inception, its workers have always experienced the warmth, affection, support, and cooperation of the people,” he said.
