One Hundred Years of Service: RSS Celebrates Centenary in Nagpur.

RSS Centenary Celebrations in Nagpur: A Reflection of Unity, Strength, and Vision.

Hridya Bharti | HENB | Nagpur | Oct 2, 2025:: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) marked a significant milestone in its journey on Vijayadashami, celebrating its centenary year with grand festivities in Nagpur. The event, attended by Former President Ram Nath Kovind as the chief guest and RSS Chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, highlighted the organization’s contributions to national unity, social harmony, and community service.

In his eloquent annual address at the centenary celebration, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat hailed Hindu Dharma, praised India’s Operation Sindoor response, called for Swadeshi (indigenous attitude) & Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), and spoke about diversity as India’s tradition.

A Legacy of Inclusion and Service

Former President Ram Nath Kovind praised the RSS for its commitment to harmony and equality, citing instances where prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar expressed admiration for the organization’s work. Kovind mentioned that Gandhi visited an RSS camp during Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar’s lifetime and was impressed by the discipline, simplicity, and absence of untouchability in the camp. Similarly, Dr. Ambedkar’s visit to an RSS shakha in Karad town, Maharashtra, in January 1940, demonstrated the organization’s inclusive vision and approach.

RSS’s Resilience, Growth and Impact

Despite facing three bans in its history, the RSS has emerged stronger, showcasing its dedication and resilience. Kovind highlighted that the organization’s growth is rooted in its nourishment from patriotism and Indian ideals. He also emphasized that many institutions and ideologies have faded away over the years, but the RSS continues to thrive due to its commitment to national unity and social harmony.

In his speech, Kovind openly expressed, “Among the nation-builders, there are two doctors who played a crucial role in shaping my life – Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar. I pay tribute to them”.

A Call for People-Oriented Governance

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat stressed the importance of people-oriented governance to prevent chaos and ensure justice, development, and goodwill. He highlighted that the lack of such initiatives often leads to the rise of extremist forces. Bhagwat also emphasized the need for the state and society to work together to give people faith in the system and prevent the spread of extremism.

Through the songs sung at the function and the speeches delivered during the event, the RSS reiterated its firm stand on Hindu Rashtra.

India is an Ancient Hindu Rashtra

At the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) centenary celebrations, Sarsanghachalak Mohan Bhagwat articulated a profound definition of Hindu nationalism. According to Bhagwat, Hindu nationalism embodies the complete acceptance and respect for India’s diverse yet culturally unified identity. As he eloquently stated, “Complete acceptance and respect of diversity and our culture that binds us all together in one thread is nationalism, which we call Hindu Nationalism.”

Bhagwat elaborated that the terms “Hindavi,” “Bharatiya,” and “Arya” are all synonymous with “Hindu.” He emphasised that India’s concept of nationhood is not rooted in the modern idea of a nation-state, but in an enduring civilizational identity. “We have never had the concept of nation state. Our culture makes our nation. States come and go, but a nation remains forever. This is our ancient Hindu Rashtra,” he said.

Global Perspectives and India’s Friendships

Bhagwat pointed out that the positions taken by various countries after the Pahalgam terror attack revealed the nature and extent of their friendship with India. He emphasized the need for India to be cautious and strong in its dealings with other nations, while maintaining friendly relations.

Distinguished Guests Attend RSS Centenary Vijayadashami Celebrations

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) celebrated its centenary Vijayadashami event in Nagpur, bringing together a diverse group of distinguished dignitaries from across India and overseas. The gathering included prominent figures such as:

• Central Minister Nitin Gadkari
• Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis
• Royal Priest of Thailand
• Prominent Priests and Saints from Ghana, Bali, and Indonesia
• Swami Shankarananda, Hindu Vidya Mission Ghana
• Reputed Journalists from Washington Post and Wall Street Journal
• Former Lt Gen Rana Pratap Kalita of Indian Army
• Sanjeev Bajaj  of Bajaj Fin Corp
• Mike Watson, Fellow of Hudson Institute
• Dr. Matize, Statesman from South Africa

Message of Dalai Lama

The event also featured a special message from the Respected Dalai Lama, who praised the RSS for its nation-building efforts, emphasizing its role in preserving Indian tradition and culture through a spiritual and philosophical perspective. The message was read out during the function, highlighting the RSS’s contributions to India’s cultural heritage.

The Respected Dalai Lama expressed his gratitude to the RSS for its role in addressing the problems faced by Tibetans, showcasing the organization’s broader impact beyond India. This gesture highlights the RSS’s efforts in supporting and engaging with various communities, including those in exile.

RSS March Past and Worship of Weapons

The RSS Vijayadashami celebrations began with a grand Shastra Pujan Ceremony, where RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat and Former President Ram Nath Kovind worshipped arms, symbolizing strength and protection. This was followed by a spectacular March Past by the Swayamsevaks, accompanied by a band performance and an impressive display of Yoga Drill. The disciplined display mesmerized the spectators, showcasing the organization’s emphasis on physical and mental strength.

A Way Forward

The RSS centenary celebrations served as a testament to the organization’s enduring legacy and its commitment to national unity, social harmony, and community service. As the organization looks to the future, its focus on people-oriented governance, inclusivity, and patriotism will continue to guide its efforts in building a stronger and more resilient India.
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_Inputs from PTI.