RSS Centenary: Mohan Bhagwat Calls for India to Reclaim Its Global Leadership

On August 26, 2025, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) celebrated a historic milestone—its 100th anniversary—at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The event featured a lecture series titled "100 Years of Sangh's Journey: New Horizons", inaugurated by RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat. The centenary offered an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s century-long journey, its role in shaping India’s socio-cultural landscape, and its vision for the future.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat(ANI) | LiveMint

Unity Through Shared Heritage

In his address, Bhagwat highlighted the deep cultural and ancestral ties that bind the Indian populace. He emphasized, “Our DNA is the same,” referring to the continuity of traditions, values, and social fabric that have endured over millennia. This remark underscored the RSS’s vision of fostering unity among India’s diverse communities, transcending regional and religious differences. The Chief also stressed that understanding shared heritage is essential for nurturing a collective identity and national consciousness.

Defining 'Hindu' and the Concept of Hindu Rashtra

Bhagwat offered a nuanced explanation of what it means to be a ‘Hindu.’ He described a Hindu as someone who “walks on his own path and does not block the path of others,” framing Hinduism as an inclusive philosophy. This interpretation emphasizes spiritual plurality while encouraging moral and ethical responsibility. Regarding the concept of Hindu Rashtra, Bhagwat clarified that it is not about exclusion but about organizing society around shared cultural values, ethical conduct, and mutual respect, aiming for harmony and societal cohesion.

India’s Role as Vishwaguru

Looking forward, Bhagwat articulated a vision for India to reclaim its historical status as Vishwaguru—a global teacher and leader. He argued that India possesses the philosophical, cultural, and civilizational resources to guide the world in matters of knowledge, ethics, and governance. According to him, the RSS’s mission is centered on empowering Bharat to achieve this stature while remaining rooted in its indigenous values.

Social Inclusivity and Outreach

The centenary celebrations also underscored the RSS’s outreach efforts. Former President Ram Nath Kovind is scheduled to be the chief guest at the organization’s annual Vijayadashami celebrations in Nagpur on October 2, 2025. His participation marks the first time a former head of state will attend the event, highlighting the RSS’s engagement with historically marginalized communities and its commitment to promoting social harmony.

Looking Ahead

The RSS centenary is both a reflection on the past and a roadmap for the future. The organization aims to strengthen its initiatives in civic responsibility, environmental stewardship, social cohesion, family values, and self-awareness. Through these efforts, the RSS seeks to contribute to India’s holistic development while positioning the nation as a guiding force on the global stage.

Conclusion

The centenary celebrations of the RSS emphasize continuity, unity, and national pride while projecting an aspirational vision of India as a global leader. Mohan Bhagwat’s address reinforced the organization’s commitment to cultural preservation, inclusivity, and the pursuit of a cohesive and ethically grounded society. As India marks the RSS’s 100-year journey, the focus remains on preparing the nation for a future where it can assume its role as Vishwaguru, sharing its wisdom and values with the world.

(Sources: LiveMint, India Today, NDTV)