New Delhi: Ahead of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) centenary, veteran Congress leader Karan Singh on Wednesday congratulated the organisation’s chief Mohan Bhagwat and its ‘swayamsevaks’, urging the Sangh to continue focusing on nation-building over the next 100 years to drive India’s progress.
Founded by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar on Vijayadashmi in 1925, the RSS is set to complete a century on Thursday.
“The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is celebrating 100 years since its founding. On this occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone, from Mohan Bhagwat ji to millions of activists,” Singh said in a video message.
Recalling his own experience, Singh said, “In 1982, when I founded the Virat Hindu Samaj, the RSS supported us immensely, helping organise large rallies in key cities to highlight the needs of Hindu ‘dharma’ and society.”
He added, “I hope the RSS continues to prioritise nation-building, especially character-building, in the coming century. A society can truly progress only through strong character development.”
Singh, a former Sadr-e-Riyasat and governor of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasised that India’s advancement in this way would enable the nation to play a constructive role globally and emerge as a leader amidst worldwide challenges.
Preparations are underway across the country to mark the RSS’ centenary with various events. The year-long celebrations include over one lakh ‘Hindu sammelans’ and thousands of ‘biradari goshthis’ promoting harmony and peace. The festivities will begin with Bhagwat’s annual Vijayadashmi address at the Sangh headquarters in Nagpur on Thursday.
The RSS also plans a nationwide door-to-door outreach campaign and thousands of symposiums across all states on diverse topics as part of its centenary commemorations.
