RSS Thrives on Ideals and Principles: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Nagpur (Maharashtra): Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is like a banyan tree that has stood firm on ideals and principles for the past 100 years. He emphasized that a nation’s existence depends on the expansion of its culture, which is passed down through generations. Despite numerous foreign invasions and attempts to destroy Indian culture, its consciousness has never faded.
PM Modi made these remarks while addressing the Bhoomi Pujan ceremony of the premium center building of Madhav Netralaya in Nagpur on Sunday. He reiterated that a country’s survival is rooted in its cultural heritage, which evolves across generations. “India has faced several foreign invasions and relentless efforts to obliterate its culture, yet the essence of Indian civilization has never perished. Numerous movements have emerged to preserve this consciousness, and the Bhakti movement is a prime example,” he said.
He highlighted the contributions of Sant Tukaram, Sant Eknath, Sant Namdev, and Sant Dnyaneshwar, who awakened this cultural consciousness in Maharashtra, followed by Swami Vivekananda, who carried the mission forward. Before India’s independence, Dr. Hedgewar and Guruji Golwalkar further strengthened this national consciousness. “The sapling they planted 100 years ago has now grown into a mighty banyan tree,” he added.
PM Modi Attends Bhoomi Pujan Ceremony of Madhav Netralaya’s Expanded Building
RSS: An Everlasting Banyan Tree of National Culture
PM Modi described the RSS as an “immortal banyan tree” representing India’s national culture, adding that it is also a continuous yajna (sacrifice) operating on both external and internal levels. “Externally, organizations like Madhav Netralaya symbolize its social outreach, while internally, the RSS advances through dedicated service work,” he explained. These values of service and discipline are embedded in every RSS volunteer, inspiring generations and keeping them active and committed.
“The RSS volunteers never tire, never stop,” he remarked. “Be it mountainous terrains, coastal regions, or dense forests, RSS volunteers are always engaged in service. We have witnessed their dedication in Prayagraj, where they assisted millions during mass gatherings. Whether in natural disasters or other crises, they respond like disciplined soldiers, offering selfless service.”
Indian Civilization Withstood Centuries of Attacks
PM Modi further stated that India endured centuries of foreign invasions, with ruthless invaders attempting to erase its civilization and culture. However, they could never uproot the spirit of Indian identity. Many movements emerged to safeguard and revive Indian traditions, with the Bhakti movement playing a crucial role in keeping national consciousness alive. “Through devotion and unity, great saints bridged social divides, fostering harmony among all sections of society,” he said.
The event was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, RSS Chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, Swami Avdheshanand Giri, and Swami Govind Dev Giri Maharaj.
PM Modi Pays Tribute at Smriti Mandir
It is noteworthy that the RSS founder, Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar’s birth anniversary is celebrated on Varsh Pratipada (Gudi Padwa) every year. On Sunday, PM Modi visited Smriti Mandir in Nagpur for the first time since becoming Prime Minister. He paid floral tributes at the memorials of Dr. Hedgewar and the second Sarsanghchalak Guruji Golwalkar at Reshimbagh.