New Delhi, Sept 30: As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) prepares to mark its centenary on Vijayadashami, veteran Congress leader and former Union minister Dr. Karan Singh extended his warm congratulations to the organisation and urged it to continue prioritising nation-building and character development in the coming century to ensure India’s progress and global leadership. The RSS, founded in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, will complete 100 years on Thursday, a milestone that will be commemorated with year-long celebrations across the country.
In a video message, Dr. Karan Singh said, “The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is celebrating 100 years since its founding. On this historic occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone — from Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat ji to millions of dedicated swayamsevaks who have worked tirelessly for society.” He recalled his own past collaboration with the Sangh, saying, “In 1982, when I founded the Virat Hindu Samaj, the RSS extended immense support. Because of their assistance, we were able to organise large rallies in many important cities, highlighting the needs and aspirations of Hindu dharma and Hindu society.”
Dr. Singh emphasised that the organisation’s role in nation-building remains as crucial today as it was a century ago. “I would like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh to continue focusing on nation-building, especially character-building, over the next 100 years, because only through strong character can a society progress,” he said. He further expressed hope that India, guided by these values, would not only advance domestically but also “play a progressive role globally” and “take the lead in the prevailing chaos across the world.”
A towering political figure and former Sadr-e-Riyasat and Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Karan Singh’s remarks are being seen as significant amid changing political dynamics and evolving societal narratives. His statement also underscores the growing emphasis on cultural and moral values as foundational pillars of India’s future development.
Preparations for the RSS centenary celebrations are already underway across the country. The organisation plans a series of year-long events, including over one lakh ‘Hindu sammelans’ and thousands of ‘biradari goshthis’ aimed at promoting social harmony, unity, and peace. The centenary will officially commence with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s annual Vijayadashami address at the organisation’s headquarters in Nagpur on Thursday.
In addition, the RSS is planning a nationwide outreach campaign, including door-to-door public engagement drives and thousands of symposiums on cultural, social, and national issues across states. These initiatives aim to deepen the organisation’s connection with communities, encourage dialogue, and reaffirm its focus on strengthening national unity and identity in a rapidly changing world.
Dr. Karan Singh’s call for the Sangh to continue prioritising character-building aligns with the organisation’s founding principles and comes at a time when India’s social fabric and democratic institutions face new challenges and opportunities.