Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur for its centenary celebration. He hailed the RSS as a vital force in India’s culture and modern development, comparing it to a banyan tree that nourishes the nation’s consciousness.

During his visit, Modi spoke at an event to mark Gudi Padwa, the Marathi New Year. He emphasized the impact the RSS has had since its founding in 1925, calling it a significant contributor to India’s cultural nationalism. “What began a century ago has grown into a substantial influence in our society,” he said.
Modi mentioned that this was his first visit to the RSS headquarters as Prime Minister, making him the second sitting Prime Minister to do so, after Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
He acknowledged the RSS’s role in various community services, pointing out that its volunteers are always ready to help during natural disasters like earthquakes and floods. He praised their discipline and commitment, stating, “For RSS workers, no task is too big or too small; they are driven by the spirit of service.”
The Prime Minister also connected the RSS’s history to the present goals of developing a “Viksit Bharat” or developed India. He believes that breaking free from old shackles of colonialism is crucial to achieve this vision. He stated, “Today’s youth are innovative and proud of our culture.”
During his visit, Modi paid tribute to RSS founders Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar. He recorded in the visitors’ diary that their legacy inspires countless volunteers devoted to the nation.
Additionally, Modi expressed his reverence for Deekshabhoomi, where Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in 1956, describing it as a beacon of social justice. He reiterated his government’s commitment to advancing the ideals of equality and dignity that Ambedkar championed.
Recent surveys indicate that many young Indians resonate with Modi’s vision, reflecting a spirit of ambition and innovation. For instance, a 2023 study found that over 70% of youth believe in the power of entrepreneurship as a pathway to uplift the nation.
Overall, Modi’s visit underscored both the historical significance of the RSS in shaping India’s identity and the continuing relevance of its values in modern society.
Check out this related article: Modi Praises RSS Headquarters Visit: Celebrating the Sangh as India’s Cultural Banyan Tree
Source linkPM Modi says RSS is the Banyan Tree of Indian Culture