RSS Chief Launches 100-Year Celebrations, Reiterates the Organisation’s Commitment to Society and Inclusiveness
RSS Marks 100 Years with Message of Inclusivity
At the opening of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) centenary celebrations, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a powerful message of unity and social commitment. Speaking at a three-day event in Delhi themed “100 Years of RSS Journey: New Horizons”, Bhagwat reflected on the RSS’s evolution and its place in Indian society.
“Those who opposed us earlier have become our friends now. We never saw them as opponents,” said Bhagwat, reinforcing the RSS’s stand as a non-reactionary, socially driven organisation.
Key Highlights from Mohan Bhagwat’s Address
- The RSS is not defined by opposition to any religion or group
- “Even if there are no Muslims or Christians, the RSS will still exist because it works for society,” Bhagwat quoted former RSS chief Guruji
- Emphasised that terms like Bharatiya, Hindu, and Sanatani are synonymous, reflecting commitment to the motherland and spiritual values
- RSS remains dedicated to national unity and service irrespective of social divisions
Three-Day Event: Exploring the RSS Journey
The centenary event includes:
- Evening talks and panel discussions from August 26 to August 28
- Focus on dissecting misconceptions about the RSS
- Presenting how Swayamsevaks perceive their mission and service
Outreach Beyond Ideological Lines
In a significant move to broaden engagement:
- RSS has invited diplomats from various countries to participate
- Over 2,000 attendees from diverse sectors:
- Judiciary, bureaucracy, arts, sports, startups, media, influencers, political leaders
- The Sangh has also extended invitations to minorities — including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, and Buddhists
- Opposition parties, including the Congress, have been approached for participation
What Comes Next: The Vijaya Dashami Address
While the three-day talks lay the foundation for the centenary celebrations, the main centenary launch will be marked by:
- The traditional Vijaya Dashami speech by Mohan Bhagwat
- A nationwide series of events and programs to highlight RSS’s mission and reach
RSS at 100: A New Narrative?
The centenary milestone is not just a moment of celebration for the RSS but also an opportunity to redefine its image in the public eye. Bhagwat’s emphasis on friendship, dialogue, and national unity marks a shift from ideological divides to nation-building through inclusivity.
Key Takeaways
- RSS completes 100 years with a message of unity and societal commitment
- Mohan Bhagwat’s speech underlined inclusive values and long-term vision
- The organisation is engaging with diverse voices, including minorities and international diplomats
- The celebrations will continue with major programs leading up to Vijaya Dashami
