The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) marks its centenary today, celebrating 100 years since its founding. The anniversary celebrations commenced at 7:40 AM in the morning at the Resham Bagh ground in Nagpur. Over 21,000 volunteers are participating in the event. Former President Ram Nath Kovind is in attendance as the chief guest.
Before the main program, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat performed the Shastra Pujan (weapon worship). This will be followed by displays of yoga, physical exercises, mock combat, musical performances, and a parade. The Vijayadashami festival is also being celebrated across more than 83,000 RSS branches throughout the country. The RSS was founded on Vijayadashami day in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar.
Mohan Bhagwat is the sixth Sarsanghchalak (Supreme Head) of the RSS, having assumed leadership in 2009. Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder, was the first Sarsanghchalak. A day prior, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative postage stamp and a 100-rupee coin to mark the RSS’s centenary.
Several foreign dignitaries are also attending the Vijayadashami celebrations, including guests from Ghana, South Africa, Indonesia, Thailand, the UK, and the USA.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat paid his respects to Dr. Hedgewar at the Vijayadashami celebrations in Nagpur. Former President Ram Nath Kovind was also present. Mohan Bhagwat and former President Ram Nath Kovind performed the Shastra Pujan on the occasion of Vijayadashami 2025.