Satish Singh Manhas
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), one of the largest universal voluntary organizations is about to celebrate its 100th raising day/ year/anniversary in somewhere around the end in 2025. Founded in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, the RSS initially began as a small group of around 7 people of different age groups with a vision of uniting India through cultural, social and family cohesion. Over the last century, the organization has grown into a global phenomenon, impacting various spheres of life with its unique organizational skills, commitment to unflinching service, and unwavering dedication to the cause of social, character and national building.
Foundation and Vision: The RSS was established during the period marked by colonial oppression and the peak struggle for Indian independence. Dr. Hedgewar an ardent follower of Bal Gangadhar Tilak envisioned an organization that could instill a sense of national pride, discipline, valour, social cohesion and unity among Indians. Unlike traditional political movements, the RSS sought to bring about change through cultural awakening, social cohesion and character-building rather than direct confrontation with colonial rulers. But building a strong future through public participation and selfless conviction is it’s basic principle.
The cornerstone of the RSS philosophy is Hindutva (a way of life), which emphasizes cultural nationalism and the idea of India as a shared civilization. This ideology has been the guiding light for its cadre, known as Swayamsevaks, who dedicate their lives to selfless service and the nation’s well-being.
Organizational Skills: A Unique Model: One of the key reasons for the RSS’s longevity and influence is its unparalleled organizational skills and national and social selfless service. The RSS operates through a decentralized structure, with its smallest unit being the Shakha (branch). Shakhas, held daily is the lifeline of the organization. They serve as a platform for physical exercises, intellectual discussions, and cultural activities, fostering a sense of community and shared values and purpose. The RSS’s organizational model is built on simplicity, discipline, and a bottom-up approach. It has no formal membership fees or financial backing from external agencies. Instead, it relies on voluntary contributions from its members known as Swayamsevaks and well-wishers, which ensures financial independence and accountability. Despite this, the RSS has managed to expand across India and into more than 100 countries worldwide, proving the effectiveness of its model.
Expanding Influence: National and International: From its modest beginnings in Nagpur, the RSS has grown into a global organization with millions of active volunteers. In India, the RSS’s influence extends across diverse fields, including politics, education, rural development, disaster management and socio-cultural reforms. Its affiliate organizations, collectively known as the Sangh Parivar, include prominent institutions like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Vidya Bharati (education), and Seva Bharati (social service), Saksham (divyangs welfare) etc. On the international stage, the RSS has established chapters in countries with significant Indian diaspora populations, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. Through these chapters, the RSS promotes Indian culture, values, and community service, helping Indian expatriates maintain their cultural identity while integrating into their adopted countries.
Service in Times of Need (SOS): One of the most remarkable aspects of the RSS is its consistent and selfless service during times of crisis. Whether it is a natural calamity, a pandemic, or social unrest, the RSS has always been at the forefront, providing relief and support without seeking recognition or rewards.
Disaster Relief: The RSS has played a pivotal role in relief operations during earthquakes (e.g., Gujarat 2001), floods (e.g., Kerala 2018), and cyclones. Its volunteers are often among the first to reach affected areas, distributing food, medical aid, and shelter and the Ahmedabad Gujarat plane crash is the recent live example of RSS volunteers service.
COVID-19 Pandemic: During the recent pandemic, RSS volunteers organized blood donation camps, distributed masks and sanitizers, and provided food to millions of migrant workers stranded during the lockdown. Hundreds of RSS Pracharaks unbothered about self traveled far and wide during covid to help people when the entire nation by and large was confined in bedrooms.
Social Service: Beyond disaster relief, the RSS runs numerous programs for education, health, divyangs and rural development. Its initiatives aim to uplift marginalized communities and promote self-reliance among those standing up on last social and economic ladder.
The Cadre: Swayamsevaks’ Integrity and Commitment: The backbone of the RSS is its cadre of Swayamsevaks, who exemplify discipline, dedication, selflessness and integrity. These volunteers come from all walks of life, including students, professionals, and retirees. What unites them is their commitment to the organization’s ideals and their willingness to contribute without expecting any material rewards. The RSS emphasizes character-building and leadership development among its members. Through regular training programs and camps, it instills values such as self-discipline, patriotism, and teamwork. This focus on personal growth and moral integrity has enabled the RSS to maintain its credibility and effectiveness over the decades and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Lal Krishna Advani, Narender Modi, Amit Shah, J P Nadda and many more are the live examples of RSS character building.
Criticism and Challenges: The RSS’s journey has not been without challenges. Critics have often accused it of being divisive or overly focused on a particular cultural identity. However, the organization maintains that its philosophy of Hindutva is inclusive and aims to unite all Indians under a shared cultural heritage. The RSS has also faced legal and political hurdles, including bans during critical periods in Indian history. Despite these challenges, the organization has emerged stronger, largely due to its disciplined cadre and unwavering focus on its goals.
The Most Powerful Armless Organization: At 100 years, the RSS stands as a unique example of how an organization can achieve immense influence and impact without wielding physical power or coercion. Its strength lies in its ability to inspire individuals to work collectively for a common cause, driven by values rather than material incentives. The RSS’s emphasis on self-reliance, community service, and cultural unity has made it one of the most powerful “armless” organizations in the world. Its achievements underscore the potential of grassroots movements to bring about meaningful change.
Looking Ahead: The Next Century
As the RSS enters its second century, its challenges and opportunities are evolving. The organization must navigate a rapidly changing world while staying true to its core values. Issues like climate change, digital transformation, and global geopolitics will require new approaches and strategies.
However, the RSS’s track record suggests that it is well-equipped to adapt and thrive. With its strong organizational foundation, dedicated cadre, and commitment to service, the RSS is poised to continue its journey as a force for national unity, resilience, and national progress.
Conclusion: The 100th anniversary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not just a milestone for the organization but a celebration of its enduring contributions to India and the world. From its humble beginnings in 1925 to its current status as a global phenomenon, the RSS has demonstrated the power of selfless service, disciplined organization, and unwavering commitment to a higher cause.
As it steps into its second century, the RSS remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that change begins at the grassroots and that true power lies in the strength of values and unity. 1000’s and 1000’s of youth dedicated their life leaving behind their families, personal joy and contentment for the sake of national building through character building and this is the uniqueness of RSS. Every day, every hour, every minute and every second, there are hundreds and thousands of passionate people who are eager to work for RSS, with RSS, under RSS and in coordination with RSS. This is the reason the Rashtriya Swayamsevak at 100 is, ” getting younger than growing older”.
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