NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the Chief Guest at the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on 1 October 2025. The event will be held at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi at 10:30 AM, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
On this occasion, the Prime Minister will release a specially designed commemorative postage stamp and coin dedicated to the 100-year journey of the RSS. He will also address the gathering, highlighting the organisation’s role in shaping India’s cultural and social landscape.
Modi’s tribute to RSS on Mann Ki Baat
In his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi described the RSS’s centenary as “unprecedented and inspiring.” He said the organisation’s century-long journey had been remarkable and deeply significant for the nation.
“This Vijayadashami is very special for another reason. This day marks 100 years of the foundation of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. This journey of a century is as amazing, unprecedented, and inspiring as it is,” the Prime Minister said.
He recalled the conditions in which the RSS was founded, noting that India was struggling under colonial rule at the time. “100 years ago, when the RSS was founded, the country had been bound in the chains of slavery for centuries. This centuries-long slavery had deeply hurt our self-respect and self-confidence. The world’s oldest civilisation was facing an identity crisis. Our citizens were becoming victims of an inferiority complex,” he added.
Historical roots of the organisation
The RSS was founded on Vijayadashami in 1925 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. Following his passing, the organisation’s second Sarsanghchalak, MS Golwalkar—known as Guruji—expanded its reach and consolidated its mission of national service.
PM Modi, who was earlier associated with the RSS, underlined that the Sangh has always followed a “nation first” philosophy, building self-confidence, discipline, and a sense of duty among its members.
Contributions across sectors
Over the past century, the RSS has played a pivotal role in various fields, including education, healthcare, disaster relief, and social welfare. Its volunteers have been active in providing relief during floods, earthquakes, and cyclones, while affiliated organisations have worked to empower farmers, women, and youth.
The Sangh emphasises “Sarvangeena Unnati” or the all-round development of the nation. Its activities focus on instilling values of patriotism, discipline, courage, and selfless service in individuals, thereby strengthening communities at the grassroots level.
Centenary significance
The centenary celebrations aim to honour the organisation’s historical contributions while reaffirming its role in India’s cultural and national journey. The release of the commemorative coin and stamp will symbolise the Sangh’s enduring presence over the last 100 years.
Political analysts note that the centenary year marks a significant moment, not only for the RSS but also for its ideological influence on India’s polity and society. With the Prime Minister participating as Chief Guest, the event underscores the government’s acknowledgment of the Sangh’s role in nation-building.
Conclusion
As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh completes a century of existence, its centenary celebrations in New Delhi reflect both a historical milestone and a forward-looking vision of national development. From its inception during India’s struggle for independence to its wide-ranging contributions in modern times, the RSS continues to remain an influential force in shaping ideas of discipline, service, and patriotism.