NAGPUR: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) celebrated Vijayadashami Utsav in Nagpur on October 20, 2026, marking the culmination of its centenary celebrations. RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat addressed the gathering on the occasion.
In his address, Dr Bhagwat remembered several personalities whose lives and contributions reflected devotion to Dharma, social service, sacrifice and the awakening of national consciousness. He referred to Sant Shiromani Ravidas Ji Maharaj, Swami Shraddhanand Ji, Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati Ji Maharaj and Shri Raj Narayan Basu of Bengal, highlighting their enduring relevance to society.
Sant Ravidas Ji Maharaj: Dharma, duty and social harmony
Dr Bhagwat noted that the year marked the 650th birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Ravidas Ji Maharaj. He highlighted the Ravidas ji’s life of hard work, penance and sacrifice, and his role in promoting devotion, adherence to faith and duty, and social harmony. Sant Ravidas Ji lived during a period when the country faced oppression by foreign invaders and persecution of people following their Dharma.
He emphasised the continuing relevance of the Ravidas ji’s teachings, both through his words and the example of his life. The centenary-year programmes organised by Shakhas sought to acquaint people with his life, teachings and contributions. His legacy highlights the importance of personal commitment, steadfastness in one’s duties and harmony within society, particularly during challenging times.
Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati: Service among forest-dwelling communities
Dr Bhagwat also recalled Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati Ji Maharaj, whose birth centenary is being observed in 2026. He highlighted the Swami’s dedicated work among the forest-dwelling communities of Odisha, where he lived and devoted himself selflessly to the service of the people. Swami Laxmanananda ultimately laid down his life among the communities he served.
His life reflects the significance of sustained service and personal sacrifice in working for the welfare of society. By living among the people and dedicating himself to their service, he established a lasting example of commitment to the community.
Shri Raj Narayan Basu and the Hindu Mela
Dr Bhagwat remembered Shri Raj Narayan Basu of Bengal on his 200th birth anniversary. Notably, Basu was the inspiration behind and founder of the ‘Hindu Mela’, through which he sought to awaken a deeper consciousness of the Self among people. His contribution highlighted the importance of cultural awareness and a collective understanding of identity.
The Hindu Mela served as a platform for awakening national consciousness and encouraging people to recognise and preserve their cultural foundations. Dr Bhagwat connected this effort with the wider importance of understanding and strengthening the sense of Selfhood and identity. Basu’s legacy underlined the role of cultural initiatives in building awareness and inspiring people to safeguard the values that shape society.
Swami Shraddhanand: A life dedicated to dharma
Dr Bhagwat also recalled Swami Shraddhanand Ji, whose martyrdom had completed 100 years. He described him as a revered ascetic and Sannyasi of the Arya Samaj, a passionate defender of Dharma, an educationist, a freedom fighter and the pioneer of the Shuddhi Movement.
Swami Shraddhanand’s life represented a commitment to religious conviction, education and the national cause.
Dr Mohan Bhagwat connected these legacies with the RSS’ century-long work of organising and strengthening Bharat on the foundation of its sense of Selfhood, identity and ethos.
