PM Modi Hails RSS Chief Bhagwat as India’s Unity Icon
PM praises Bhagwat’s transformative leadership on his 75th Birthday
On the occasion of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat’s 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned a heartfelt tribute, lauding Bhagwat’s intellectual depth, empathetic leadership, and unwavering commitment to societal transformation. In an article published across major newspapers, Modi described Bhagwat’s tenure as Sarsanghchalak since 2009 as the most transformative era in the RSS’s century-long history, coinciding with the organization’s centennial celebration on Vijaya Dashami, October 2, 2025, alongside the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri.
Modi portrayed Bhagwat as a living embodiment of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the philosophy of the world as one family—highlighting his dedication to fostering harmony, fraternity, and national pride. “Mohan ji has steered the RSS through complex currents, never compromising on its core ideology while addressing society’s evolving needs,” Modi wrote, praising Bhagwat’s ability to balance continuity with adaptation. He noted Bhagwat’s unique ability to listen, which lends sensitivity and dignity to his leadership, making him a beacon for the RSS’s mission of nation-building.
The prime minister, himself a former RSS pracharak, emphasized Bhagwat’s role in strengthening India’s cultural and social fabric. He credited Bhagwat with championing initiatives like the ‘Panch Parivartan’—focusing on social harmony, family values, environmental awareness, national selfhood, and civic duties—which resonate with Indians across all walks of life. Modi highlighted Bhagwat’s engagement with youth, noting his efforts to integrate younger generations into the Sangh Parivar through public discourses and digital platforms, ensuring the RSS remains relevant in a dynamic, tech-driven world.
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Modi also celebrated Bhagwat’s support for government programs like Swachh Bharat Mission and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, describing how the RSS chief encourages volunteers to amplify these efforts. “Every RSS volunteer dreams of a strong and prosperous nation, and Mohan ji embodies the vision and decisive action needed to realize this dream,” Modi stated. He underscored Bhagwat’s commitment to ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,’ celebrating India’s diverse cultures while fostering unity and equality.
Beyond his organizational role, Modi revealed a personal side to Bhagwat, noting his passion for music, proficiency in Indian instruments, and love for reading, which enrich his speeches and interactions. Recalling a recent address in Nagpur where Bhagwat likened the RSS to an eternal banyan tree, Modi said its deep roots in values owe much to Bhagwat’s inspirational leadership.
Reflecting on their shared history, Modi recounted his association with Bhagwat’s family, particularly his father, Madhukarrao Bhagwat, a revered RSS figure who strengthened the organization in Gujarat. “Madhukarrao ji’s passion for nation-building groomed Mohanrao to work toward India’s regeneration,” Modi wrote, likening their contributions to a ‘parasmani’—a mythical touchstone that transforms all it touches. He also noted Bhagwat’s early years during the 1975 Emergency, when he and other RSS workers resisted authoritarianism, and his extensive work in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region, which deepened his understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Under Bhagwat’s leadership, the RSS has seen significant changes, from modernizing training camps to updating its iconic khaki uniform, reflecting his ability to adapt while preserving core ideals. As Modi, who turns 75 on September 17, prepares to join Bhagwat in this milestone year, his tribute underscores a shared vision of a united, prosperous India. The article has sparked widespread discussion, with many seeing it as a testament to the enduring influence of the RSS and its alignment with Modi’s nation-building agenda.
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