100 Years of RSS
100 Years of RSS : 100 Years of RSS ,On the auspicious day of Vijayadashami in 1925, a small group of patriots gathered in Nagpur under the leadership of Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar to establish what would later become the world’s largest voluntary organization—the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
“Nation First, Self Last.”
At that time, India was struggling under British colonial rule. The spirit of nationalism was alive but fragmented, and Hindu society was facing social divisions, caste discrimination, and a lack of unity. Dr. Hedgewar envisioned an organization that would work at the grassroots level, shaping individual character and transforming society to build a strong and united nation.
In 2025, the Sangh marks its 100th anniversary, completing a century of continuous service to the nation. From its humble beginnings with just a handful of volunteers, it has now grown into an organization with millions of swayamsevaks, thousands of daily shakhas, and numerous affiliated organizations (Sangh Parivar) working across almost every sector of Indian life.
100 Years of National Service: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s Century-Long Journey of Nation-Building
Table of Contents
The Founding Vision: Nation First
Dr. Hedgewar believed that a strong society was the foundation of a strong nation. The RSS was not meant to be just another political or social organization but a movement that would focus on character-building and discipline as the key to national rejuvenation.
The Shakha System
The shakha, or daily gathering of swayamsevaks, became the core of the Sangh’s functioning. Here, volunteers participate in physical exercises, group discussions, patriotic songs, and value-based learning. The shakha instills discipline, teamwork, and a sense of collective identity.
The process of transformation within a shakha is often described as the journey from “I” to “We.” Through this system, countless individuals have undergone personal transformation, later dedicating their lives to the service of society.
RSS in the Freedom Struggle
Although primarily focused on social unity, the Sangh’s early years were closely connected with the freedom movement.
- Dr. Hedgewar himself participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and was imprisoned multiple times by the British.
- Many swayamsevaks provided shelter, protection, and support to freedom fighters across the country.
- The Sangh’s role was to create a disciplined and united society that would be capable of resisting foreign rule and building a strong nation after independence.
Even after independence in 1947, the Sangh continued to play a crucial role in preserving India’s cultural and social fabric.
Leadership Transitions and Growth
The RSS’s journey of 100 years has seen several transitions in leadership, each leader leaving a distinct mark on its history.
- Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar (1925–1940) – Founder and first Sarsanghchalak, who laid the ideological foundation.
- Madhav Sadashiv Golwalkar (Guruji) (1940–1973) – Expanded the organization, gave it strong ideological clarity, and strengthened its base nationwide.
- Balasaheb Deoras (1973–1994) – Focused on social reform, eradication of caste barriers, and engaging more openly with politics and society.
- Prof. Rajendra Singh (Rajju Bhaiya) (1994–2000) – Modernized organizational approaches, emphasized intellectual debates, and youth participation.
- K.S. Sudarshan (2000–2009) – Expanded global outreach of RSS.
- Mohan Bhagwat (2009–present) – Current Sarsanghchalak, under whom the Sangh has expanded significantly and aligned its vision with 21st-century challenges while celebrating its centenary.
100 Years of RSS
Challenges and Resilience
The Sangh has not had an easy journey. Over the years, it has faced:
- Bans and restrictions: After Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination in 1948, the RSS was banned, though it was later acquitted of involvement and revived. It also faced bans during the Emergency (1975–77) under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
- Criticism and controversies: The Sangh has often been accused of being exclusivist or ideological. However, it has consistently emphasized that it works for the unity and strength of all sections of society.
- Internal challenges: With millions of volunteers, maintaining discipline and unity has been a continuous challenge, but the organizational structure of the Sangh has ensured its survival and growth.
Despite these challenges, the Sangh emerged stronger each time, deepening its roots in Indian society.
100 Years of RSS
RSS in Nation-Building
The contributions of the RSS extend far beyond its shakhas. Through its vast network of affiliate organizations, it has touched every aspect of Indian life.
1. Education and Culture
- Vidya Bharati runs thousands of schools across India, promoting value-based education.
- Ekal Vidyalayas focus on bringing education to remote tribal areas.
- Initiatives to preserve and promote Indian languages, art, and culture are part of its ongoing work.
2. Tribal and Rural Development
- Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram has worked for decades in tribal regions, empowering communities through education, healthcare, and self-reliance programs.
- Efforts in rural areas include agricultural development, water conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.
3. Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Service
- During Partition (1947), swayamsevaks provided shelter and rehabilitation to refugees.
- In natural disasters like the 1999 Odisha super cyclone, the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, and the COVID-19 pandemic, RSS volunteers have been first responders, working on the ground with limited resources but immense dedication.
4. Social Reform
The Sangh has consistently worked against social evils such as caste discrimination and untouchability. Leaders like Balasaheb Deoras openly called for ending these practices and promoting social harmony.
5. Women’s Empowerment
Organizations like Rashtra Sevika Samiti have been actively working to empower women, ensuring their equal participation in cultural and social spheres.
6. Political Influence
Although RSS is not directly a political organization, it inspired the creation of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951, which later evolved into today’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Many swayamsevaks have become political leaders, influencing India’s governance and policies.
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100 Years of RSS
RSS as a Global Movement
Over the decades, the Sangh has extended its presence beyond India through Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) and other international initiatives. Today, RSS-inspired organizations exist in more than 40 countries, connecting the Indian diaspora with its cultural roots and instilling a sense of national pride.
RSS Centenary 2025: A Historic Milestone
As the RSS enters its 100th year in 2025, special celebrations are being held across the country. The Government of India has released a commemorative coin and postage stamp to honor this journey. Programs are being organized to highlight the Sangh’s service initiatives, historical contributions, and future vision.
The centenary celebrations are not only a look back at the past but also a renewed pledge for the future—to strengthen India’s unity, empower its citizens, and continue the mission of selfless national service.
Nation First, Self Last: A Century of Seva, Sangathan, and Samarpan
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s century-long journey stands as one of the most unique experiments in nation-building. Without seeking power or position, it has quietly worked at the grassroots level, nurturing individuals, empowering communities, and strengthening the fabric of Indian society.
Its story is one of discipline, resilience, and unwavering patriotism. From freedom struggle to disaster relief, from education to social reform, from local service to global outreach—the Sangh has left an indelible mark on the nation.
As it steps into its second century, the Sangh continues to inspire millions with the timeless motto:
“Nation First, Self Last.”
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