NAGPUR: “Just as the sun shines by its own light, so too do the pracharaks of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) illuminate society through their conduct and commitment. The more intense the trials they face, the more steadfast, resilient, and radiant they become. This ascetic spirit forms the foundation of a strong and capable nation.” In these words, the dignitaries paid tribute to the life-vow of RSS pracharaks.
The occasion was the award distribution ceremony of the ‘Vilas Fadnavis Memorial Jivhala Awards’, organised by the Jivhala family. The ceremony was held with great grandeur on January 10, 2026, at the Kavikulaguru Kalidas Auditorium at Persistent Systems’ IT Park, Nagpur. The event stood as a profound confluence of honouring service-oriented lives and fostering heartfelt dialogue with RSS pracharaks.
Marking 150 years of the song ‘Vande Mataram’, which ignited the flame of patriotism in the hearts of Bharatiyas, the ceremony commenced auspiciously with a melodious rendition by the Gopal Group.
Remembering Vilas Ji’s Enduring Legacy
Addressing the gathering, Shridharrao Gadge, Sah-Sanghachalak of RSS Vidarbha Province, recalled the memories of Vilas Ji. “Vilas Ji was not just an individual; he was a source of energy. It was his boundless warmth (jivhala—affection) that inspired countless youth to dedicate themselves to national service. Experiencing this extraordinary influence of his personality, the five pracharaks present here today chose the path of national service. For the new generation, these ‘pillars of light’ must be embraced as ideals.”
A distinctive feature of the ceremony was the recitation of citation letters in honour of the awardees. The deeply moving and impactful readings by Shraddha Bhardwaj, Dr Abhijit Ambhaikar, Gauri Belan, Dr Seema Deshpande, and Rupa Fadnavis left the entire auditorium emotionally charged. Each word eloquently conveyed the magnitude of the awardees’ contributions and touched the hearts of those present.
On the occasion of the RSS Centenary Celebrations, individuals who render selfless service in five key social domains (Panch Parivartan) were honoured with a cash award of Rs 51,000, a murti of Bhagwan Ram, a citation, and a book on the life of Vilas Ji.
An Inspiring Dialogue With Pracharaks
An intimate conversation conducted by Ravindra Deshpande with five senior pracharaks revealed many touching facets of their lives. The dialogue reaffirmed the truth that while the life of an RSS Pracharak is invariably demanding, it is sustained by unwavering resolve.
The discussion featured Padma Shri Dr Dhananjay Sagdeo, Sunil Deshpande (Akhil Bharatiya Sah Sampark Pramukh, RSS), Sunil Kulkarni (Sah Pracharak Pramukh), Pravin Dabholkar (Treasurer, Vivekananda Kendra Kanyakumari), and senior Pracharak Ravindra Bhusari. RSS Vidarbha Sah Sanghchalak Shridhar Gadge was also present on the dais. All the Pracharaks hail from Nagpur.
While Ravindra Bhusari, Sunil Kulkarni, and Pravin Dabholkar resigned from their jobs to become Pracharaks, the others embraced the Pracharak way of life immediately after completing their education.
Ravindra Bhusari observed, “The life of an RSS pracharak is always difficult. Even the certainty of two meals a day is not assured. Yet, without any expectation of reward, he remains dedicated to nation-building.”
Dr Dhananjay Sagdeo stated that human service is the essence of RSS education, which inspired him to become a pracharak. Acting on the guidance of Balasaheb Deoras, he was assigned to Wayanad. Although basic facilities were absent and the thought of returning often arose, his commitment to human service remained steadfast.
Sunil Kulkarni noted that no extraordinary motivation is required to become a committed pracharak. Local householders in Nagpur served as his inspiration, offering intellectual guidance and invaluable time.
Pravin Dabholkar noted that the encouragement from household volunteers such as Vilas Ji and Shriram Ji Joshi led him to choose the Pracharak path.
Sunil Deshpande said that, while handling the responsibilities of the Ramnagar Shakha, witnessing the area’s social conditions and sensitivities prompted his decision.
Dr Sagdeo recounted the challenging experiences of Wayanad, while Ravindra Bhusari illuminated the philosophy of the Pracharak’s austere yet spiritually enriched life. Accounts of sacrificing careers and family life for national service left the audience spellbound.
A Dignified and Uplifting Conclusion
The programme began with the introductory address by Ashutosh Fadnavis, with Nagesh Patil also prominently present on the dais. Dr Bhagyalakshmi Deshkar, through her fluent and lucid anchoring, conducted the entire programme effectively. The auditorium was filled to capacity. While the stage was graced by eminent personalities such as Padma Shri Dr Dhananjay Sagdeo, the audience included stalwarts like Padma Shri Dr Vilas Dangre, representatives of various institutions, and social workers from diverse fields.
Just as the beginning was vibrant, the conclusion was equally elevated. The daughters of the Jivhala family rendered Pasayadan in their melodious voices, imparting spiritual fulfilment to the gathering. This was not just an award ceremony; it was a celebration of a selfless way of life. The presence of ascetics whose lives are imbued with unwavering purpose filled the atmosphere with profound national devotion.
