“On the auspicious occasion of the 100th Foundation Day of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), I extend my warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to all its dedicated Swayamsevaks. Since ancient times, Aryavarta, our beloved Bharat has been the birthplace of diverse religions, philosophies, and knowledge traditions, which gave it the stature of a Vishwaguru (teacher of the world). However, beginning from the later part of the 10th century, numerous external disruptions led to the decline and erosion of Bharat’s spiritual traditions, philosophies, and knowledge systems. Yet, thanks to the tireless efforts of countless selfless luminaries, these traditions were preserved from complete extinction. From the 19th century onwards, new movements of spiritual, educational, and social renaissance began across Bharat. These efforts ultimately culminated in the freedom struggle, which restored Bharat’s independence in the mid-20th century. With this hard-earned freedom came the profound challenge of revitalising and safeguarding Bharat’s ancient traditions.
Within this broader movement of renaissance, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has held a unique and significant place. The organisation was founded in a spirit of selflessness, guided by a clear and pure sense of duty without expectation of reward. Everyone who joins the Sangh learns to live a life rooted in purity of mind and sanctity of means. The hundred-year journey of the RSS is, in itself, a rare and unparalleled example of dedication and service. The Sangh has consistently worked to unite people, while strengthening Bharat both materially and spiritually. It has worked in the remote and challenging regions of Bharat, contributing to educational and social development, and providing vital support in disaster-affected areas.
Over the past 50 years, I have had the opportunity to observe the Sangh and Sangh inspired institutions closely, and I have been deeply impressed by their activities. As a human being, I consider it my foremost responsibility to contribute towards the nurturing of universal human values. As a spiritual person, I strive to strengthen the ideals of harmony and mutual respect among all faiths. As a student of Bharat’s ancient knowledge systems, I feel it is my fundamental duty to preserve and protect the Bharatiya Knowledge Traditions. The Sangh has long worked effectively in all these three directions, which fosters my natural sense of respect and appreciation for it. The RSS has, from the very outset, rendered special services for the welfare of Tibetan refugees living in Bharat and the resolution of the Tibetan issue. For this, the entire Tibetan community remains deeply grateful. On the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, I pray to the Tri-Ratnas (Three Jewels of Buddhism – Buddha, Dharma and Sangha) for the complete success of every programme and initiative, so that the entire world may benefit. I also offer my best wishes for the well-being and prosperity f all members of the Sangh Parivar.
— His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama
“The RSS journey over the past 100 years symbolises the soul of Bharat – the flow of eternal culture, and the integration of society and nation-building through divine values and selfless service. From its founding by Dr. Hedgewar Ji, who ignited the flame of nationalism in dark times, to its present role in guiding humanity with the philosophy of Ekatma Manav Darshan, the RSS continues to inspire individual character, social welfare, and the spirit of service—reminding us that service is the highest duty.”
—Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Juna Akhada
“In the villages and streets of Bharat, whenever anyone tried to prevent religious conversion, it was the Sangh that stood firm. Wherever work was carried out at the grassroots level with the spirit of seva, it was also the Sangh that did it. The resolutions of the Sangh have always been extraordinary – whether it was about preserving languages, embracing traditional attire, or promoting satvik food.”
—Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, Bageshwar Dham Sarkar
“The RSS is celebrating its centenary year, and on this occasion I extend my heartfelt wishes to Mohan Bhagwat ji and lakhs of karyakartas. I recall that in 1982, when I established the Virat Hindu Samaj, the RSS extended immense support to us. I hope that in the next 100 years as well, the RSS continues to focus on nation-building, especially on character-building – for only through strong character can a society truly progress.”
—Dr. Karan Singh, Senior Congress Leader
“I extend my sincere congratulations to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on completing 100 years. Wishing them continued success in their service to the nation, particularly in providing humanitarian support to people during times of need”
—N Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh & President, Telugu Desam Party
“On this sacred day of Vijaya Dashami, I extend my profound wishes to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on completing 100 glorious years of discipline, service, and nation-first commitment. From the freedom movement to every natural calamity and crisis, the RSS has always stood at the forefront, silently serving the nation with unmatched discipline and dedication. The strength of the Sangh lies not in words but in actions, in every Swayamsevak who embodies service before self. In 1925, Freedom Fighter Sri Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar Ji founded the Sangh with a clear vision: to prepare a generation rooted in discipline, unity, and sacrifice, qualities essential for national independence and the building of a strong Bharat. Since then, the RSS has completed 100 years of dedicated service”
—Pawan Kalyan, Deputy CM, Andhra Pradesh and leader, Jana Sena)
“This year on Vijayadashami the RSS will be completing 100 years. On this occasion, our Swayamsevaks will be organising programmes in different cities and towns. I request everyone to join these programmes, to encourage those members who dedicate themselves selflessly to the nation and work to keep our
country united.”
— Sweety Boora, World and Asian Champion Boxer, Arjuna Awardee and Bhim Awardee
“This year the RSS is completing 100 glorious years. I would like to congratulate and extend my best wishes to every member of the organisation. It is inspiring to see how they dedicate themselves in service of the nation.”
—Bhaichung Bhutia, Padma Shri, Arjuna Awardee, Former Indian Football Team Captain
“The RSS is a symbol of patriotism and selfless service, completing 100 years of its journey. Started in 1925, the Sangh is the world’s largest volunteer organisation, inspiring all of us. With discipline, patriotism, and a spirit of selfless service, crores of swayamsevaks dedicate themselves to Bharat Mata. On this centenary year, I extend my best wishes to all my brothers in the Sangh.” —Arjun Rampal, Actor
“I say with great pride that I have had the opportunity to meet RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat ji three to four times. I have also visited the Sangh headquarters in Nagpur, and now the Sangh is completing 100 years. I would urge everyone to join the Sangh, because it is the Sangh that teaches how to live together as one. There is no discrimination in the Sangh”
—Anwar Khan Manganiyar, Padma Shri Awardee and Renowned Folk Singer
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