Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday commended the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during its centenary celebrations, crediting the organisation for its unwavering commitment to the principle of “nation first” amid numerous challenges and adversities.
Participating in the grand celebrations, Modi highlighted the RSS’s critical role in nation-building, noting its relentless efforts to promote harmony by dismantling caste and creed divisions. He remarked, “The Sangh has fought against British atrocities, provided refuge to freedom fighters, and its founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar faced imprisonment multiple times during our freedom struggle.”
The Prime Minister recalled the challenges the RSS has faced, including bans and false accusations, asserting that it has “never harboured bitterness.” He shared the wisdom of former RSS chief Madhav Golwalkar, who once stated, “At times, the tongue may get caught under the teeth, but we do not break the teeth.”
Modi emphasized the Sangh’s resilience during India’s Emergency and its unwavering faith in democracy. He said, “Two core values – unity with society and confidence in constitutional institutions – have kept swayamsevaks steadfast during every crisis.”
As part of the historic celebration, PM Modi launched a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a postal stamp. These items pay tribute to the organization’s century-long contribution to the nation. The coin depicts the national emblem on one side and for the first time in independent India, Bharat Mata depicted in Varada Mudra, flanked by a lion and swayamsevaks in reverent bow. The postal stamp captures the significance of RSS’s participation in the 1963 Republic Day Parade.
In a nostalgic tone, Modi remarked, “This is a moment of great pride as Bharat Mata has been featured on Indian currency for the first time.”
Recalling the RSS’s altruistic service, Modi mentioned its support during the 1962 war, the 1971 refugee crisis, and the 1984 riots, underscoring its steadfast commitment to equality, compassion, and unity. He lauded current Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat’s initiative for “one well, one temple, one cremation ground,” viewing it as a significant stride towards eliminating discrimination.
Receiving Modi’s praise, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale expressed sincere gratitude to the government for recognizing the Sangh’s century-long service. He described the coin and stamp as a fitting tribute to the selfless contributions of swayamsevaks since 1925.
