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Jaya Prakash
Is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) limited to the Hindu religion? Why does the organisation celebrate Vijayadashami as one of its most significant occasions? These questions are central to understanding the Sangh’s founding principles and its vision of national unity.
Beyond Vedic traditions and religious practices, the term ‘Hindu’ has also been associated historically with the geographical identity of the Indian subcontinent. Differences in region, language, customs and social practices, however, have often posed challenges to unity.
It was against the backdrop of the pre-Independence era that the RSS emerged as an organisation focused on social transformation and national consciousness. Founded by Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur on Vijayadashami in 1925, the organisation commemorates the occasion as its foundation day, linking the festival with its resolve to strengthen society and foster patriotism.
Is the RSS confined to one religion?
The RSS and its supporters describe the organisation as a movement centred on national unity, discipline and character-building rather than merely on individual religious practices. They maintain that its guiding principle is to place the nation and collective responsibility at the forefront.
The Sangh’s prayer, Namaste Sada Vatsale Matrubhume, reflects its emphasis on devotion to the motherland. For its volunteers, Vijayadashami is therefore not only associated with the Navaratri celebrations but also serves as an occasion to renew their commitment to national service.
The organisation has expanded from Nagpur through its shakhas, or local branches, and a wider network of affiliated organisations. Its supporters cite relief work during Partition, participation in the Goa Liberation Movement and activities during the Emergency as examples of its contribution to public life.
Service and character-building
Hedgewar’s vision placed emphasis on organising society through individual character-building. Members associated with the Sangh and its wider organisational network work in areas such as education, social service and rural development.
The underlying objective, according to the organisation’s stated philosophy, is to cultivate discipline, social responsibility and patriotism among citizens. Its supporters argue that these efforts help build a stronger and more cohesive nation.
Yogi Adityanath on the RSS
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has described the RSS as an organisation dedicated to the glory of the motherland, viewing the nation as a deity, society as a family and service as a form of worship.
He has also highlighted the significance of the Sangh’s foundation day for its volunteers, describing its guiding spirit through the expression “Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama” — meaning, “This is for the nation; this is not for me.”
The sentiment, as articulated by Adityanath, represents a progression from individual responsibility to social commitment and national service, with the ultimate objective of contributing to the prosperity and glory of the country.
