The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has entered its centennial year. Since its establishment, the organisation has consistently expanded, strengthened and increased its influence, sparking curiosity among people to learn about and understand its activities. To truly comprehend the RSS, it is essential to understand its founder, Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the first Sarsanghchalak.
A born patriot, Dr Hedgewar intensely despised British rule, which was evident from his childhood. However, he believed that striving solely for Independence was akin to treating the symptoms of a disease rather than addressing its root cause. He held it crucial to introspect and ascertain the underlying reasons that led to the subjugation of a vast, affluent, and prosperous Bharatiya society.
To address these fundamental maladies, Dr Hedgewar envisioned fostering a sense of self-awareness, self-respect, unity, fraternal bonding, discipline, and national character within the society. While actively participating in all endeavours aimed at achieving Independence, he founded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in October 1925, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami.
Relationship Between Hindutva & RSS Philosophy
The collective identity of Bharat is inextricably linked to the spirituality based, integral, and holistic worldview, universally recognised as Hindutva or the Hindu view of life. The RSS embarked upon its mission with the objective of revitalising this Hindutva ethos, integrating the entirety of society within a unified framework, and establishing a paragon of virtue and excellence within the Hindu community. Notwithstanding his associations and close affiliations with the preeminent thinkers, intellectuals, and leaders of his era, Dr Hedgewar’s visionary perspective was distinguished by its distinctiveness, comprehensiveness, inclusivity, and profound foresight.
The visionary perspective of Dr Hedgewar was remarkably astute and far-sighted, distinguishing him from his contemporaries. During this era, a plethora of spiritual, social, and other organisations emerged in Bharat, making seminal contributions to the nation’s development. In a similar vein, the establishment of the RSS within Hindu society was entirely consonant with the prevailing zeitgeist. Nonetheless, from its inception, it was patently evident that the RSS would function not merely as a subsidiary organisation within society, but rather as the embodiment and personification of the entire Hindu society. A distinguished thinker has astutely observed that the RSS and Hindu society are conceptually coterminous and psychologically they are one, existing in a state of symbiotic unity.
Commitment to Social Responsibility
Dr Hedgewar undertook a solemn commitment to consolidate society, eschewing contentious debates and adversarial postures, in accordance with the principles of Vadonavalambya (do not indulge in debates) and Sarvesham Avirodhena (not opposed to anyone)”. The incumbent Sarasanghachalak, Dr Mohan Bhagwat, articulated a profound sentiment, stating, “We harbour no animosity towards anyone. We shall engage with them in a spirit of cordiality, exercising due diligence to ensure that our organisation remains unscathed by their opposition.”
The perpetual and immutable endeavour of character building and organising the society shall persist unabated, while the ephemeral tasks necessitated by circumstances shall also be undertaken by swayamsevaks (volunteers), who shall discharge their active roles in response to emerging challenges. This dichotomy between the eternal and the ephemeral was exemplified by Dr Hedgewar through his conduct.
Prior to the establishment of the RSS in 1925, Dr Hedgewar participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1921, launched by Gandhi ji, and consequently endured a year-long imprisonment. Post RSS’s inception, Dr Hedgewar, along with other swayamsevaks, participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930, spearheaded by Gandhi ji, and suffered a nine-month imprisonment.
RSS developed a methodology called Shakha to foster national character building & collective virtues, as well as to perpetuate the memory of its ideals
Despite his involvement in ephemeral tasks, Dr Hedgewar ensured the continuity of RSS’ perpetual endeavours by entrusting the responsibilities of the Sarsanghchalak to his associate, Dr Lakshman Vasantrao Paranjape. This discerning ability to distinguish between the eternal and the ephemeral was a hallmark of Dr Hedgewar’s leadership, which not only proved invaluable but also served as a guiding principle for RSS’s future trajectory.
Timeless Tradition of Guru Dakshina
The tradition of accepting philanthropic contributions from society for the purpose of undertaking activities beneficial to the community has a long-standing presence in Bharat. However, Dr Hedgewar introduced a novel paradigm, wherein the Sangh’s endeavours would be solely funded by the Guru Dakshina contributed by swayamsevaks, thereby ensuring the organisation’s financial independence and autonomy. This innovative approach has been consistently adhered to since its inception.
Bharat has a venerable tradition of revering exceptional individuals as Gurus. As RSS is an organisation of the entire Hindu society, it abstains from the notion of acknowledging any individual as a Guru. In consideration of the antiquity of Hindu society, Dr Hedgewar recognised the necessity for a symbol that would serve as an embodiment of Hindutva and possess a comparable legacy. Consequently, the saffron flag was established as a revered symbol within the RSS, serving as a paradigmatic representation of the Guru.
History of Design of Bharatiya National Flag
Bhagini Nivedita (Margaret Noble, of Irish origin), a devoted disciple of Swami Vivekananda, designed the prototype of the flag for an independent Bharat in 1906. This inaugural design featured a yellow Vajra emblem emblazoned on a saffron-hued background. In 1931, the Congress Working Committee constituted a Flag Committee, tasked with deliberating on the design of the national flag for a sovereign Bharat. This committee comprised of distinguished luminaries like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Master Tara Singh, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Pattabhi Sitaramayya (Convener), Kaka Kalelkar, and Dr Hardikar. Following deliberations, the committee unanimously proposed that the national flag of Bharat should be of a single colour, specifically saffron, as it is equally acceptable to all the people and is associated with this ancient country by long tradition. The committee’s design featured a blue spinning wheel (charkha) emblazoned on a rectangular saffron flag. Notably, the flags of the Arya Samaj and Hindu Mahasabha also prominently featured saffron, accompanied by emblems of the Sun or Om. A cursory examination of the proposed or existing flags of that era reveals that each featured some emblem or symbol. However, the saffron flag of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, established in 1927 as a revered symbol of the Guru, distinctively refrains from any emblem. This deliberate design choice reflects the fundamental concept that the RSS is not an organisation operating within the society, but rather an organisation of the entire society.
The Concept of Shakha
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh developed a methodology called Shakha to foster national character building and collective virtues, as well as to perpetuate the memory of its ideals. Typically, a Shakha gathering lasts for an hour, cultivating the sentiment that the entire Bharatiya society is one, equal, and my own.
To inculcate values such as entrepreneurship, courage, perseverance, strength, intellect, and valour, various activities like games are conducted during Shakhas. Additionally, programmes like parades, route marches, and physical training (PT) exercises, inspired by the British Army, are also held to instil discipline, unity, bravery and collectivism.
In essence, Shakha represents a programme that embodies the collective practice of individual virtues and inculcating collective virtues. It is through Shakha that individuals develop the value of considering society as their own and contributing to its welfare. Inspired by dedicated workers who have embraced this ideology as a lifelong commitment, thousands of workers enthusiastically participate in this selfless endeavour.
The Sangh has achieved a pervasive presence across Bharat, with its influence extending to 98.3 per cent of the nation’s 924 districts. Furthermore, the organisation has established a significant footprint in 92.3 per cent of the 6,618 blocks (tehsils) and 52.2 per cent of the 58,939 mandals (a group of 10-12 villages).
Through its extensive network of 83,129 (daily gathering centres) shakhas at 51,710 places and 22,866 weekly Milan Kendras (meeting centres) at 21,936 additional places, RSS has successfully cultivated a widespread presence across the country. This presence continues to expand steadily, underscoring the organisation’s enduring appeal and influence.
A notable aspect of organisational structure of RSS is the demographic composition of its shakhas. A significant proportion, 59 per cent, of the daily shakhas comprise of student members, while the remaining 40 per cent consist of shakhas led by professional swayamsevaks. Within the latter category, a subset of 11 per cent of the shakhas is led by swayamsevaks above the age of 40. The remaining shakhas are headed by young professional swayamsevaks.
The Sangh operates shakhas exclusively for men, focusing on character development through diverse programmes, including sports. Conversely, Rashtra Sevika Samiti operates shakhas specifically designed for women, aimed at achieving analogous objectives. Furthermore, women actively participate in various social awakening initiatives undertaken by RSS through the Prachar Vibhag (Media Relations), Sampark Vibhag (Outreach), and Seva Vibhag (Service Activities). Continuous efforts are made to augment women’s participation in these endeavours.
Transformative Practices by RSS
In addition, RSS collaborates with maternal forces and benevolent social elements in initiatives aimed at transforming society. These endeavours encompass a wide range of activities, including Dharma Jagaran Samanvay (Connecting to one’s cultural and spiritual roots), Gram Vikas (Village Development), Kutumb Prabodhan (Family Enlightenment), Samajik Samarasata (Social Harmony), Gau Samvardhan (Cow Conservation), Paryavaran Sanrakshan (Environmental Conservation), Ghumantu Karya (Work among nomadic tribes), and Samajik Sadbhav Karya (Social Harmony Work). RSS actively encourages and seeks to enhance the participation of these elements in its societal transformation initiatives.
To effect systemic changes in various aspects of societal life, RSS swayamsevaks are engaged in 35 diverse fields, including labour, agriculture, student welfare, education, religious leadership, politics, arts, law, small-scale industries, tribal welfare, sports, and more. Concerted efforts are made to increase women’s participation in these initiatives. Notably, all these activities, in which swayamsevaks are engaged, operate independently and autonomously, reflecting the RSS’s guiding philosophy and practice.
Reach and Influence of Sangh
Sangh’s centennial journey, marked by notable expansion, has been a formidable endeavour. Initially, the organisation faced indifference, followed by ridicule, and eventually, concerted opposition from various quarters driven by political self-interest. Despite encountering resistance and struggles, RSS persevered in its mission to revitalise the nation. The organisation’s growth can be attributed to the tireless efforts, sacrifices, and dedication of its workers, coupled with societal support and divine blessings. Presently,RSS is witnessing an increase in support and participation from society in its endeavours. Furthermore, the organisation is also receiving issue-based support from various sections of society, culminating in a discernible transformation in its influence, societal mindset, and overall impact.
Swayamsevaks will focus on accelerating the pace of the organisation’s work and expanding its reach by Vijayadashami (October) 2025. This will enable more people to come into direct contact with RSS, understand its ideology, and associate with it. Following Vijayadashami 2025, swayamsevaks will actively engage in transforming society by involving an increasing number of people in five specific areas of social change, aligned with their interests. These five areas of Panch Parivartan (Five Transformations) encompass:
- Kutumb Prabodhan: Family Enlightenment
- Samajik Samarasta: Social Harmony
- Paryavaran Sanrakshan aur Samvardhan: Environmental Conservation and Promotion
- Swadeshi Jeevan Shaili: Indigenous Lifestyle
- Lok Kartavya Bodh: Awakening awareness about people’s duties
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s successful growth journey has left people astonished, appreciative, and impressed. The credit for this accomplishment goes to the organisation’s founder, Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, whose personality, philosophy, and effective working methods have been instrumental in its success.
Swayamsevaks will focus on accelerating the pace of the organisation’s work and expanding its reach by Vijayadashami (October) 2025. This will enable more people to come into direct contact with RSS
The RSS’s emphasis on establishing society-based organisations, rather than relying on political power, has led to a profound transformation in society. This transformation is evident in the organisation’s enduring impact. A verse from an RSS song succinctly captures this sentiment: “केवल सत्ता से मत करना परिवर्तन की आस। जाग्रत जनता के केंद्रों से होगा अमर समाज।।”(Do not rely solely on power for transformation; an immortal society will emerge from the centres of an awakened populace.)
Observing and engaging in these activities, it is imperative to acknowledge a crucial consideration: the mere expansion of the reach of shakhas will not suffice to awaken, cultivate values, and organise the entire society. To achieve this objective, it is essential to leverage the natural institutions within society, such as families, schools, colleges, and community organisations, to impart values and foster a sense of responsibility. When exemplary role models are visible at every level and in every sphere, individuals from all segments of society – including children, youth, and adults – will develop a profound understanding of the authentic concept of this ancient and distinctive nation. Consequently, they will conduct themselves in a manner that aligns with this understanding. Only then will a transformative, positive force emerge within the entire society, precipitating a paradigmatic shift.
Ultimately, a prosperous, empowered, and active Bharat will establish its inclusive, integrated, and holistic cultural identity, akin to a beacon, guiding humanity and fulfilling its global responsibilities. The endeavours undertaken by the RSS through its shakhas and by swayamsevaks through their conduct will begin to permeate society’s natural institutions. A victorious, organised society will continue to emerge, and the RSS’s mission will endure, becoming an integral part of the entire society’s functioning.
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