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The RSS at 100: The Pan-Hindutva Force Behind Modi’s BJP
Table of Contents
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization, is marking its centenary year. Founded in 1925, the RSS has grown from a small cultural group to a powerful force shaping Indian politics and society, with an increasingly visible presence overseas.Its influence is particularly evident in the rise of the bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the current governance led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The RSS’s core ideology,known as Hindutva – a nationalist ideology asserting Hindu cultural and political dominance – has been central to its growth. It advocates for the cultural unity of India, defining Indian identity thru a Hindu lens. This ideology has resonated with a important portion of the Indian population, contributing to the BJP’s electoral successes.
Past Advancement & Key milestones
Established by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, the RSS initially focused on character building and physical training. Over the decades, it expanded its organizational network and broadened its social and political activities.The aim is to organise the Hindu society and to serve it
, Hedgewar stated, outlining the organization’s early goals.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1925 | RSS Founded in nagpur |
| 1947 | Partition of India; RSS faces ban due to alleged involvement in communal violence. |
| 1966 | Ban lifted |
| 1980s | RSS actively involved in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. |
| 1990s | BJP gains prominence, frequently enough with RSS support. |
| 2014 | Narendra Modi becomes Prime Minister; RSS influence increases. |
| 2024 | RSS celebrates its centenary. |
The RSS and the BJP
The relationship between the RSS and the BJP is deeply intertwined. The BJP emerged from the Jan Sangh, which was closely linked to the RSS. Many prominent BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Modi, have a background in the RSS. The RSS provides ideological guidance and organizational support to the BJP, while the BJP serves as the political arm of the Hindutva movement.
Did You Know?
The RSS operates through a vast network of affiliated organizations, known as the Sangh Parivar, covering various aspects of social life, including education, culture, and labor.
global Reach and Expansion
while primarily focused on India, the RSS has been expanding its presence internationally, particularly among the Indian diaspora. Branches have been established in countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. This expansion aims to promote Hindutva ideology and mobilize support for the RSS’s agenda globally.
Pro Tip: Understanding the RSS’s organizational structure – its *shakhas* (local branches) and its hierarchical command – is crucial to grasping its operational effectiveness.
Criticisms and Controversies
The RSS has faced criticism for its exclusionary ideology and alleged role in promoting communal disharmony.Critics argue that its emphasis on Hindu identity marginalizes religious minorities,particularly Muslims. The organization has also been linked to violence and extremist groups, allegations it consistently denies.
“The RSS’s ideology is based on the belief that India is a Hindu nation and that all Indians should adhere to hindu culture and values.” – Christophe Jaffrelot, political scientist specializing in South Asia.
Despite these criticisms, the RSS remains a powerful and influential force in India, shaping the country’s political landscape and social fabric. As it enters its second century, its impact is likely to continue to be felt both within India and abroad.
What role do you foresee the RSS playing in India’s future political landscape? How
