Bhubaneswar: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has been working tirelessly for the past century to protect Hindutva and promote character building, according to senior Congress leader, former Speaker of the Odisha Assembly, and former minister of Odisha Kishore Patel. Speaking as the chief guest at the shatabdi inauguration programme of the RSS held at the Bhawani Bhavan Stadium in Sundargarh, Patel commended the discipline, dedication, and patriotism ingrained within the organiStion and its members.
“RSS is a disciplined organisation. For the past 100 years, it has been engaged in shaping individuals and safeguarding Hindutva,” Patel remarked during his address.
He emphasised that RSS workers and pracharaks (full-time karyakartas) have consistently made sacrifices to defend and propagate Hindutva values. “The spirit of patriotism deeply ingrained in every RSS karyakartas is truly commendable. Whatever is necessary for the growth and preservation of Hindutva is being undertaken through the organization,” he added.
Reflecting on the history of the Sangh, Patel noted that its founders aimed to unite society through the thread of Hindutva. He mentioned that even before India’s independence, the RSS played a role in bringing society together through various means. The organisation has celebrated Hindu festivals and highlighted the glorious past of Hindu civilization to the community.
“Today, the RSS is working towards building a disciplined society. The vision of its founders to create a strong and self-reliant India will certainly be fulfilled,” Patel stated. He further observed that harmony, discipline, and patriotism are the greatest needs of the present era.
Patel stressed that the RSS is not exclusive to any group and remains open to all. “National integration, peace, and patriotism are indispensable for the country. Everyone can join the RSS. Its future is bright, and it will play a vital role in nation-building,” he affirmed.
The program also featured a keynote address by Dr Sanatan Pradhan, Prant Sanghchalak of RSS Odisha (West Prant). Dr. Pradhan traced the organization’s century-long journey, crediting Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS founder, as a born patriot whose nationalist spirit was evident even in his childhood.
“Dr. Hedgewar studied the socio-political conditions of Bharat carefully and founded the RSS with the aim of national resurgence. He actively participated in both revolutionary and non-cooperation movements and was even imprisoned during the freedom struggle,” Dr. Pradhan said.
He highlighted how the small shakha that began in Nagpur has now grown into a sprawling banyan tree, spreading its reach across nearly 50 countries worldwide. Inspired by the RSS, numerous organizations have been established to work in diverse fields of social and national importance. Activities linked to family values, social harmony, rural development, cow protection, religious awakening, and environmental conservation are actively undertaken under its banner, he noted.
Marking the centenary celebrations, Dr. Pradhan announced that the RSS plans to reach every household to ensure that every individual becomes aware of its mission and values. He urged every citizen to incorporate five key changes into their lives for social transformation, namely: samajik samarasata (social harmony), kutumb prabodhan, paryavaran (environmental awareness), an emphasis on ‘Swa’ (selfhood), and the duties of citizens.
The event was also attended by Nagar Sanghchalak Nandalal Patel, who was present on the dais. A large number of swayamsevaks, both senior and new, as well as Odisha Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker Bhavani Shankar Bhoi in full uniform, were present. Prominent citizens of the city, along with women’s groups, also participated in the function. Patanjali Yoga Kendra, the Women’s Yoga Center, and workers of the Sathya Sai organization extended their active support to the event.
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