Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during its centenary celebrations on Wednesday, highlighting the organization’s long-standing commitment to the principle of “nation first.” He acknowledged the challenges and attacks faced by the RSS over the years.
Speaking at the event, Modi detailed the RSS’s significant role in nation-building and fostering unity across caste and creed. He noted, “The Sangh has fought against British atrocities, provided support to freedom fighters, and its founder, Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, endured imprisonment several times during the freedom struggle.”
Modi reflected on the RSS’s resilience, stating that despite facing bans and false allegations, it has “never harboured bitterness.” He quoted former RSS chief Madhav Golwalkar’s profound wisdom, saying, “At times, the tongue may get caught under the teeth, but we do not break the teeth.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that the RSS has remained committed to its values during tough times, particularly during India’s Emergency, maintaining faith in democracy and constitutional institutions. “Two core values – oneness with society and trust in institutions – kept swayamsevaks calm in every crisis,” he added.
To commemorate this historic centenary, Modi released a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a postal stamp. The coin uniquely features the national emblem on one side and, for the first time, Bharat Mata depicted in Varada Mudra alongside a lion and swayamsevaks in devotion. The postal stamp notably illustrates the RSS’s participation in the 1963 Republic Day Parade.
“This is a moment of great pride as Bharat Mata has been featured on Indian currency for the first time,” Modi stated, celebrating the significance of this recognition.
Additionally, the Prime Minister reminisced about the RSS’s contributions during crucial historical events, such as the 1962 Sino-Indian War, the 1971 refugee crisis, and the riots of 1984. He lauded the Sangh’s relentless commitment to values like equality, compassion, and unity. Modi particularly endorsed the current Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat’s initiative advocating for “one well, one temple, one cremation ground” as an avenue to combat discrimination.
In a response to the government’s acknowledgment, RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale expressed gratitude, stating that the commemorative coin and stamp serve as a tribute to the selfless efforts of swayamsevaks since 1925.
