RSS: Myth and Reality

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is being discussed throughout the country these days. The RSS has completed 100 years of its existence. It is celebrating its centenary year across the country through various constructive programmes. Some ideological people have a positive view of the RSS, while others belonging to certain sects or communities do not. A judgment of good or bad can only be made after observing it closely and research studying it objectively.

To know, understand and connect with someone, one needs to establish closeness and engage in dialogue. To know and understand the RSS, it is necessary to observe and study it up close. As far as I know, RSS is an ideology. And this ideology was born in 1925 when Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar founded RSS in Nagpur of Maharashtra. Before that, he was an active worker of the Congress party. He had a very close understanding of the freedom movement. During that time, an idea arose in his heart – that Bharat would one day become independent. But after independence, Bharat needed to be secured in a way that was in harmony with its nature and culture, and the coming generations of Bharatiya needed to be capable of achieving this.

For the past 800 years Bharat was enslaved by the Mughals. And for 200 years, it was under British rule. In those 1000 years, the self respect of Bharat and its people had been completely eroded.  Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar started a one-hour daily Shakha. The Shakha included various programmes focused on self awareness. Discussions on tradition and Hindu culture began.  Physical education and traditional games activities were incorporated to keep the body healthy. Patriotic songs were sung. Folk tales were used to awaken a sense of belonging to Bharat Rashtra. The Shakha concluded with prayer of Bharat and last Bharat Mata ki Jay. Through these Shakha a sense of pride in society and nation began to awaken in the boys and youths. A spirit of sacrifice and dedication developed. The idea that “the country gives us everything, so we too should learn to give something back” fostered a sense of responsibility towards the nation and diligence in their works. The process of character building began through these Shakhas in whole country – Bharat Mata ki jay.

The RSS is a pillar where the resounding cry of "Victory to BHARAT MATA" and the ideology of Hindu and Hindutva prevail. For the RSS, the nation comes first, not the individual or the organisation. The RSS’ understanding of Hindu and Hindutva is not tied to any particular worship practice or religion of sects. For the RSS, Hindu represents the culture of Bharat and Hindutva embodies the spirit of "Victory to Bharat Mata." The RSS respects all forms of worship and all sects of religion and communities.