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Key Points

Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that Nagpur's unique environment made it the only place where RSS could originate. He highlighted the city's existing spirit of sacrifice that helped Dr Hedgewar establish the organization. The RSS chief also connected Shivaji Maharaj's ideals to later freedom movements including the 1857 revolt. Bhagwat urged learning from past fighters who worked selflessly for societal good.

Key Points: Mohan Bhagwat Says RSS Could Only Originate in Nagpur

  • Bhagwat attributes RSS formation to Nagpur's inherent spirit of sacrifice and social commitment
  • RSS recently celebrated its centenary since 1925 founding by Dr Hedgewar
  • RSS chief invoked Shivaji Maharaj's vision of Swaraj and national unity
  • Bhagwat criticized British attempts to destroy unifying Indian symbols
2 min read

Organisations like RSS could only take shape in Nagpur...: Mohan Bhagwat

RSS chief explains Nagpur's unique role in RSS formation, citing city's spirit of sacrifice and social commitment that enabled Dr Hedgewar's vision.

"Although there were people across the country who took pride in Hindutva... an organisation like the RSS could only take shape in Nagpur - Mohan Bhagwat"

Nagpur, 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.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting perspective on Nagpur's unique contribution. While I respect the historical significance, I hope the focus remains on inclusive nation-building that benefits all Indians regardless of background.
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Priya S
The mention of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's vision is inspiring. His ideals of Swaraj and selfless service are timeless and should guide our current leadership too. Jai Maharashtra! 🇮🇳
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Arjun K
While I appreciate the historical context, I wish there was more emphasis on how RSS is adapting to modern India's challenges. The organization needs to address contemporary issues more proactively.
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Karthik V
The point about British systematically destroying unifying symbols is crucial. We must preserve our cultural heritage while building a progressive nation. RSS has played an important role in this.
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Michael C
As someone who has studied Indian history, I find the connection drawn between Shivaji Maharaj's movement and the 1857 revolt particularly insightful. Historical continuity in freedom struggles deserves more attention.

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