In a momentous occasion on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a special postage stamp and a commemorative ₹100 coin, marking the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). This release is particularly historic as it features the first-ever depiction of Bharat Mata on Indian currency, a significant national symbol.
The newly launched ₹100 coin is a striking piece of national art. One side bears the esteemed national emblem, while the reverse proudly displays a majestic image of Bharat Mata in a ‘Varada Mudra’ posture, accompanied by a lion. Beneath her, RSS ‘swayamsevaks’ (volunteers) are depicted bowing in reverence, symbolizing their devotion and dedication to the nation.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the profound historical significance of this event, stating, ‘For the first time in the history of independent India, the image of Bharat Mata has been featured on Indian currency, marking a moment of immense pride and historical importance.’
Further enriching its symbolism, the coin also carries the powerful RSS motto: ‘Rashtray Swaha, Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama‘—a Sanskrit phrase translating to ‘Everything is dedicated to the nation, everything belongs to the nation, nothing is mine.’
Meanwhile, the commemorative postal stamp vividly portrays RSS ‘swayamsevaks’ participating in the Republic Day Parade of 1963, highlighting their historical involvement in national events. Prime Minister Modi characterized this unveiling as a heartfelt tribute to Bharat Mata and a proud acknowledgement of the RSS’s century-long commitment to service and national dedication.
The grand centenary celebrations, organized by the Ministry of Culture, saw the presence of several dignitaries, including RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, founded in Nagpur in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, was established as a volunteer-driven organization. Its core mission has been to cultivate cultural awareness, discipline, selfless service, and a strong sense of social responsibility among Indian citizens.
It is noteworthy that Prime Minister Modi himself served as an RSS ‘pracharak’ (propagator), gaining recognition as a skilled organizer before transitioning to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a political entity that draws significant ideological inspiration from the Hindutva organization.