Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday attended the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), praising its century-long contributions to nation-building, selfless service, and cultural pride.
PM Modi described his association with the Sangh as a ‘privilege’ and credited it with shaping his values of discipline, nationalism, and dedication to public service.
Earlier this year, in a podcast with Lex Fridman, the Prime Minister had reflected on how RSS had provided direction to his life and instilled principles that continued to influence his leadership and policy priorities.
Balancing Ideology & Office
Though PM Modi comes from an RSS background as a former ‘pracharak’, his public appearances at the organisation’s events have been relatively limited since assuming office in 2014.
Analysts suggest this measured distance preserves an image of constitutional neutrality while recognising the Sangh as a guiding ideological mentor of the BJP.
Despite this, RSS volunteers have long been active in tribal and backward regions, contributing to education, health, and social welfare. While officially non-political, the organisation has nurtured numerous leaders who later joined the BJP, reinforcing its indirect influence on the party.
The centenary event carries deep symbolic and political significance, coming after the BJP faced electoral setbacks in states like West Bengal and Jharkhand during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Some observers viewed PM Modi’s participation and praise of RSS as a reaffirmation of ideological alignment, even as critics accused him of drifting away from the Sangh in earlier years.
During his address, PM Modi hailed the RSS as the ‘world’s largest NGO’ and lauded its volunteers for decades of dedicated service.
He also unveiled a Rs 100 commemorative coin and a postage stamp to mark the organisation’s 100-year milestone, emphasising its commitment to nation-building, sacrifice, and discipline.
The RSS observes its foundation annually on Vijayadashami, and its centenary celebrations in New Delhi this week highlight the enduring impact of the organisation on India’s social, cultural, and political landscape.
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