THE SANGH AT 100: FROM INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT TO NATION-BUILDING

In India’s cultural tradition, Vijayadashami is more than a festival; it symbolises introspection, resolve and renewal. It signifies the triumph of righteousness (dharma) over unrighteousness (adharma), truth over falsehood, and restraint over ego.

Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana represents the establishment of wisdom, duty, self-restraint and morality in human life. It was on this auspicious occasion, September 27, 1925, that Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar founded the RSS in Nagpur.

This historic association has since become integral to the organisation’s identity. In 2025, the Sangh completed a century of its existence, and in 2026, it entered its 101st year.

This milestone offers an opportunity not only to revisit its history but also to assess the ideology, methodology and social impact that have shaped its place in modern India.

The Genesis of the Organisation During the Freedom Struggle In early 20th century, India was under British rule; the freedom movement was gaining momentum, and social reform initiatives were emerging across the country.

Against this backdrop, Dr Hedgewar recognised the importance of social organisation and national character. He believed that a nation’s enduring strength rested not merely on political independence or governance, but also on the organisational capacity, discipline and social responsibility of its citizens.

The RSS was founded to cultivate volunteers through regular interaction, collective activities and training, encouraging them to look beyond personal interests and recognise their obligations towards society and the nation.

Physical training, group sports, intellectual discussions and disciplined routines formed the foundation of its methodology, with individual development viewed as the cornerstone of nation-building.

This approach raises a pertinent question: Should a nation’s strength be measured only by economic progress, technological advancement and military capability, or should equal importance be given to the character, sense of duty and social conduct of its citizens? Shakha:

The Practice of Discipline and Collectivity The RSS identity is deeply intertwined with its shakha system, where volunteers gather regularly for sports, physical exercises, prayers, intellectual discussions and collective activities.

The organisation believes these routines foster punctuality, cooperation, self-confidence and social responsibility. Discipline extends beyond rules to self-regulation, honesty, civic sense, respect for public property and commitment to duty.

However, character-building efforts must be assessed through members’ conduct, social impact and tangible actions. Discipline acquires broader social value when accompanied by discernment, sensitivity, respect for dissenting views.

Cultural Consciousness and National Identity The RSS places Indian culture, civilisational continuity and Hindu cultural identity at the centre of its ideological vision.

Supporters see this as strengthening historical consciousness, cultural confidence and national unity, while debates continue over Hindutva, minorities and pluralistic nationalism. India’s heritage encompasses Vedic and Upanishadic philosophy, Buddhist and Jain traditions, the Bhakti movement, Sufi thought, diverse languages, religions and folk cultures.

National consciousness must go beyond past glories to build a society where every citizen enjoys equal dignity and rights.

Cultural confidence and unity endure through dialogue, coexistence and mutual respect. From Service Initiatives to Social Engagement RSS volunteers and affiliated organisations have undertaken initiatives in education, healthcare, rural development, social awareness and disaster relief.

Their involvement during natural disasters and local crises forms a significant part of social engagement. Addressing India’s diverse challenges requires collaboration among governments, communities, non-governmental organisations and voluntary groups.

The value of service depends on its reach, consistency and transparency. Above all, it must preserve the dignity of recipients. Assistance extended beyond barriers of caste, class, language, region and religion strengthens social trust. Such responsible conduct also represents a practical expression of patriotism.

Century of Expansion, Controversy, Discourse Following Dr Hedgewar’s tenure, the Sangh underwent leadership changes and expanded its organisational reach. Several organisations ideologically aligned with or affiliated to it became active in education, student affairs, labour, social service and politics.

Their contributions must be assessed in the context of their distinct structures and functioning. Since Independence, the Sangh’s engagement with public life has witnessed numerous ups and downs.

Bans, political developments and ideological differences have generated debate about its role. Supporters highlight its organisational growth, cultural activities and service initiatives, while critics question its ideological direction, social inclusivity and understanding of nationalism.

An objective assessment of a large organisation must consider controversies and criticism alongside achievements. History should be examined neither through unqualified praise nor predetermined opposition, but through facts, social consequences and diverse perspectives.

The Sangh’s Role in Modern Nation-Building In contemporary India, organisations such as the RSS have an important responsibility to guide the youth in distinguishing right from wrong and integrating them into the national mainstream.

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and other social organisations also have a role in nurturing a spirit of nation-first and encouraging young people to contribute to India’s development.

Even a century after its inception, the RSS continues to attract young people from educated families who leave personal comforts behind to dedicate themselves to the nation.

Their willingness to devote time, talent and energy to society reflects a philosophy in which the nation and its people are regarded as an extended family. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s life offers a prominent example of a journey shaped by his association with the Sangh and his commitment to public service.

At a time when many young people face uncertainty and disorientation, nationalist organisations must help them understand India’s ancient culture, civilisation and values while directing their energies towards constructive pursuits.

The digital age presents challenges ranging from information overload and misleading propaganda to ideological confusion, substance abuse, social discord and a lack of direction.

Youth development must therefore extend beyond education and employment to characterbuilding, discipline, social responsibility, sensitivity and dedication to the nation.

Young people must recognise that India’s future depends not only on their individual ambitions but also on their knowledge, hard work, innovation and ethical conduct.

The essence of Sanatan (timeless) culture lies not merely in following traditions but in practising truth, duty, compassion, tolerance, service and concern for the well-being of all.

Young people should reject violence, hatred, substance abuse and social fragmentation, while cultivating the ability to question, make informed decisions, respect diverse viewpoints and remain committed to the Constitution.

RSS volunteers have participated in relief, rescue and service operations during floods, droughts, earthquakes and other calamities, as well as during crises, conflicts and internal unrest.

Such efforts demonstrate the importance of social cooperation, human empathy and civic responsibility.

The Sangh has also contributed to strengthening the country’s civil defence and internal security framework. The RSS, ABVP and other youth organisations continue to expand their activities in these areas.

All social organisations have a moral responsibility to engage young people in education, skill development, environmental conservation, social harmony, respect for women, scientific temper and nation-building. Dedication to the nation must translate into honest performance of duties, respect for the law and sensitivity towards every section of society.

A nation’s future depends not simply on the size of its youth population, but on its character, ideas, judgement and actions. With the right guidance and opportunities to serve, young people can become the driving force.

The Sangh’s Endeavours in Modern Times In an evolving social and global landscape, the RSS continues to pursue its core objective of nationbuilding through individual development.

Its activities extend beyond shakhas to encompass discipline, service, moral values (sanskar), social harmony and national responsibility.

Through physical exercise, yoga, sports, intellectual discussions and collective activities, shakhas seek to cultivate leadership, cooperation and a sense of duty among swayamsevaks.

Service-oriented organisations associated with the Sangh work in education, healthcare, rural development, environmental conservation and disaster relief, including initiatives aimed at marginalised communities.

The Sangh also promotes awareness of social harmony, swadeshi (indigenous self-reliance), kutumb prabodhan (strengthening family values), environmental conservation and civic duties.

Communicating India’s culture, history and traditions to the younger generation remains an important aspect of these efforts. At a time of social differences and competing aspirations, the Sangh faces the continuing task of building trust across communities, broadening dialogue and demonstrating positive change through service.

Its central objective remains the cultivation of conscious, disciplined and serviceoriented citizens who understand their social obligations and contribute to national progress.

The progression from individual development to social transformation and nation-building forms the foundation of its work in modern India.

The present era is defined by scientific advancement, technological transformation and economic progress, but also by the erosion of family values, social fragmentation, rising individualism and detachment from cultural identity.

The Sangh’s relevance must therefore be understood in the context of its efforts to promote discipline, service, values and national consciousness.

Social harmony, environmental protection, awareness of indigenous products, disaster relief, education, healthcare and service among marginalised sections are areas in which the Sangh and affiliated organisations remain engaged.

Their broader objective is to foster cooperation & encourage citizens to participate actively in the national interest. At the same time, the Sangh must broaden its engagement to address the aspirations of the younger generation, the demands of the digital age and the complexities of social diversity.

Strengthening social harmony, upholding constitutional values, respecting all communities and promoting inclusive development are essential. Beyond the Centenary:

New Challenges and Responsibilities India faces challenges arising from technological change, urbanisation, employment pressures, economic inequality, environmental crises and digital misinformation.

Young people need guidance that promotes responsible citizenship, scientific temper, dialogue and social sensitivity.

The relevance of vyakti nirman (individual development) will ultimately be measured by how effectively it addresses these contemporary challenges.

An organisation earns wider social trust when it aligns its principles with changing needs, encourages dialogue across communities and reflects social harmony in its conduct.

Nation-building is not the exclusive responsibility of any organisation, ideology or government. It is a shared obligation of citizens, institutions, society and the state.

In a democratic India, respect for diverse viewpoints, commitment to constitutional values and equal dignity for all citizens are essential foundations.

The RSS’s hundredyear journey, rooted in Vijayadashami, offers an opportunity to reflect on how India can connect its cultural heritage with the future, strengthen social unity and translate national commitment into tangible public welfare. Ideals of Shri Ram and Obligations of Citizens Vijayadashami naturally evokes the memory of Lord Shri Ram.

Through the lives of Ram, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata, Hanuman and other characters, the Ramayana illuminates duty, sacrifice, loyalty, service and moral conduct (maryada).

Bharata’s sacrifice inspires the prioritisation of duty over power, while Hanuman’s dedication connects strength with service.

Sita’s character invites reflection on patience, self-respect and the dignity of women these ideals transcend religious faith, emphasising responsibility, selfrestraint and ethical conduct.

Vijayadashami symbolises self-conquest, with Ravana’s ten heads representing human failings such as ego, anger, greed and attachment.

True victory lies in overcoming inner weaknesses while balancing power with restraint, discipline with discernment and national pride with human dignity.

Nationbuilding becomes meaningful when cultural consciousness fosters harmony, organisational strength serves public welfare, discipline inspires civic duty, and patriotism finds expression in respect and service towards every individual.