New Delhi: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today marked the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS)—founded on Vijaya Dashami in 1925—by releasing a special commemorative postage stamp and a ₹100 coin, and praising the organization’s century of service and dedication to nation-building.
The Prime Minister pointed out the historical significance of the coin, noting that it features the image of Bharat Mata (Mother India) being saluted by swayamsevaks, a first for independent India’s currency.
In an article shared earlier and a speech delivered at the centenary event, the Prime Minister described the RSS as the “sacred embodiment of eternal national consciousness.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that the RSS’s founding vision was dedicated to serving society and contributing to nation-building, an aim fulfilled by “innumerable Swayamsevaks” over the last 100 years.
Character and Nation-Building: Shri Modi highlighted the role of the daily ‘shakhas’ (local branches) in transforming individuals and serving as the “sacrificial altar of character-building.” He affirmed that the guiding principle for the organization and its affiliates remains ‘Nation First’.
Historical Role: The PM directly addressed the organization’s historical contribution, stating that founder Dr. K.B. Hedgewar and other swayamsevaks were jailed during the freedom struggle. He also noted their work during the Partition crisis and their commitment to constitutional values, which provided strength even during the Emergency.
Fight Against Discrimination: Modi commended the RSS for its consistent campaign against untouchability and caste discrimination, citing current RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s vision of “one well, one temple, and one crematorium” for all sections of society.