Nagpur (Maharashtra) [India], October 11 : Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday emphasised Nagpur's unique contribution to the formation and growth of the RSS, saying the organisation could only have originated in the city due to its "inherent spirit of sacrifice and social commitment".
Addressing a gathering at a book launch function at an event organised by the Maharaja of Nagpur Trust, Sangh Sarsanghachalak said, "Although there were people across the country who took pride in Hindutva and called for unity among Hindus, I believe that an organisation like the RSS could only take shape in Nagpur. The spirit of sacrifice and social commitment already existed here, which helped Dr Hedgewar establish the RSS."
Sangh recently celebrated its centenary on Vijaya Dashmi. Founded in 1925 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, by Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS was established as a volunteer-based organisation with the goal of fostering cultural awareness, discipline, service, and social responsibility among citizens.
Reflecting on the nation's collective responsibility, Bhagwat said, "It is our duty to build and improve the nation; by doing so, we protect our own interests. A country that does well is safe and respected in the world."
The RSS Chief also invoked the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, praising his vision of Swaraj and unity. He stated that Shivaji Maharaj's efforts were not for personal gain, but for "God, religion, and the nation," adding that his ideals continue to inspire rulers, freedom fighters, and even the revolt of 1857.
"When Shivaji Maharaj began establishing Swaraj, he brought people together not for himself, but for a great cause. His spirit of unity gave strength to the people. As long as his ideals continued to inspire society, the history of that era was filled with progress and development. Shivaji Maharaj's vision continued to influence rulers and freedom fighters across the country and also inspired the revolt of 1857," Bhagwat added.
Bhagwat also said that the British systematically attempted to destroy symbols that united the people and urged citizens to learn from the selflessness of those who fought for the nation's progress and societal good.
"The British systematically tried to destroy those inspiring Indian symbols that had united the people and strengthened the spirit of resistance. We need to learn from our past, from those who fought selflessly for the good of society," Bhagwat said.