On October 12, 2024, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashmi, the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) celebrates its 100th foundation day, marking a century in fostering nationalism, discipline, and societal development. Alongside, the women’s wing of the Sangh, the Rashtra Sevika Samiti, established on October 25, 1936, as per the Hindu Panchang, also commemorates its foundation day. While the two organisations share a common vision for national service, they function with distinct methodologies, particularly to the different roles of men and women in society.
Both the Sangh and the Samiti share same ideology rooted in the service of the nation and upliftment of Hindu culture. Sports, physical training, and intellectual programs form a crucial part of their activities, with a strong focus on discipline, moral values, and character-building. These programs are designed to develop physical strength, intellectual capacity, and a sense of responsibility toward the nation.
The aim of setting up Shakhas, is also common to both organisations. These Shakhas serve as centres where swayamsewaks gather for physical exercises, intellectual discussions, and training in leadership and social work. However, despite the similarities in objectives and activities, there are key differences in the structure and functioning of these Shakhas.
Differences in Structure and Functioning
One of the major differences between the RSS and the Rashtra Sevika Samiti lies in their prayers. While both organisations start their sessions with a prayer, the words and content of these prayers differ, reflecting the unique cultural.
Another significant difference is the frequency of Shakhas. In the RSS, Shakhas are held daily, given that men, traditionally, are more available to attend regular gatherings. In contrast, it is more challenging for women to attend daily sessions due to their domestic responsibilities. Hence, the Shakhas of the Samiti are generally held weekly, offering flexibility for women to participate without overburdening their personal commitments.
Additionally, the timing of the Shakhas varies. While the RSS typically holds its Shakhas early in the morning, the Samiti often conducts them in the late morning, afternoon, or evening, allowing women to balance their family duties with organisational activities.
The Rashtra Sevika Samiti undertakes numerous initiatives aimed at the physical, intellectual, and moral development of women. It organises annual meetings, Vanvihars (outdoor activities), and camps for women of all ages—from infants to housewives. The Samiti also runs various services, including Arogya Shivirs (health camps), hostels, Udyog Mandirs (vocational training centres), and Balamandir Sanskar classes for children. Presently, the Samiti operates 22 hostels across India, taking responsibility for the education and marriage of girls. While RSS along with its Parivar organisations aims to spread the ideology of Hindutva to “strengthen” the Hindu community and promotes an ideal of upholding an Indian culture and its civilisational values. Notably, RSS has always been at the forefront whenever country is in need.
Through these activities, both the RSS and the Rashtra Sevika Samiti continue to play vital roles in shaping India’s socio-cultural fabric, with their distinct yet complementary approaches towards national service.
