Reflections on the Foundation Day of the RSS: Centennial Celebrations Begin
Reflections on the Foundation Day of the RSS: Centennial Celebrations Begin
Find links to seven of my recent articles on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), its 'Sarsanghchalak', its relationship with the BJP, and its ideological influence, within India and abroad.
Felicitations to the RSS and its Volunteers on Its Sthapana Diwas
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) celebrates its Foundation Day today, October 12, 2024, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami (Dussehra), a date inextricably linked to its birth. Although the RSS was officially founded on September 27, 1925, the organisation commemorates its Sthapana Diwas according to the Hindu calendar, marking the event in conjunction with Vijayadashami. This year's celebration is particularly significant as the RSS enters its centennial year, having been established 99 years ago by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur. From a modest group of 15-20 young men, the RSS has grown into one of the largest volunteer organisations in the world, with over 60,000 daily shakhas (branches) spread across India.
On this momentous occasion of its Foundation Day, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all associated with the RSS—its leadership, members, volunteers, and well-wishers alike. As an organisation that has profoundly shaped India's socio-political landscape, the RSS deserves recognition for its remarkable growth and enduring impact, regardless of one's stance on its ideology and objectives. Entering its centennial year, the RSS stands as a force that continues to influence various aspects of Indian society, politics, and culture, contributing significantly to the national discourse.
Throughout its 99-year journey, the RSS has been a significant player in shaping India's political narrative. It has faced both widespread support and strong criticism, having been banned three times by the Government of India. Yet, each time, it re-emerged with renewed strength. The RSS's network of affiliated organisations, known as the Sangh Parivar, has further entrenched its impact across social, cultural, and political arenas in the country.
The legacy of the RSS is not limited to social and cultural influence alone. It has inspired deep debates around Hindutva, Indian nationalism, and cultural and political identity, including the often misunderstood of the concept of a Hindu Rashtra. Moreover, the organisation has produced many notable leaders, including the current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. Whether one supports or critiques the RSS, its contributions to the national discourse are both substantial and lasting.
As India navigates through an era of rapid change and growing challenges, the RSS has the potential to play a pivotal role in fostering national unity. With its vast organisational network, it can act as a unifying force, helping to address the country’s deep-rooted divisions around caste, religion, and other societal fault lines. There is hope that the RSS will continue to evolve and promote social harmony in a diverse and complex nation like India.
My Reflections on RSS
For those interested in delving deeper into these themes, I encourage you to explore my recent and contemporary articles, which examine the RSS and its evolving role in Indian society:
Government Allows Employee Participation in Sangh: A Shift in Policy?
RSS Flexes Its Muscles: A Rap on the Knuckles for Its Critics
Caste-Based Discrimination and the RSS: Remedies and Challenges
A Constructive Perspective on the RSS: Felicitations and a Call for Dialogue
These articles offer a comprehensive and balanced perspective on the RSS’s ideology, leadership, and its evolving role in shaping modern India. As we celebrate its Foundation Day, we cannot overlook the immense contributions the organisation has made to the nation's socio-political fabric. While I have shared my thoughts on both the accomplishments and challenges faced by the RSS, my observations—especially any criticism—should be viewed as constructive suggestions for further improvement. As a non-member, a practicing keshadhari Sikh, and a resident of Punjab, my intention is to offer an external perspective that values the importance of unity and national integration.
I once again extend my heartiest felicitations to all associated with the RSS on this momentous occasion, as the organisation enters its centennial year. I would greatly welcome your comments and engagement with my articles, which are intended to foster dialogue and mutual growth. Let us use this milestone as an opportunity for reflection and constructive discussion.
…….though I am not anti-RSS volunteer, yet would have been better by the Organisation to apprise the Indian people of its substantial & lasting contributions to the national discourse……unluckily the Organisation has to encounter the lowest stature in the days when its own disciplines have been put in saddle by the public ……