This year’s annual ‘Pathasanchalan,’ a significant route march organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangha (RSS) for its Vijayadasami festivities, saw an extraordinary turnout in Hubballi. Hundreds of members enthusiastically joined the procession on Sunday, marking a memorable event.
Donned in their distinctive uniform of khaki trousers, crisp white shirts, and black caps, and carrying lathis (batons), the Swayamsevaks initially gathered at the Nehru Stadium, from where the spirited march was officially flagged off. According to RSS officials, approximately 7,000 Swayamsevaks participated in the event. They split into two groups, meticulously traversing various localities within Hubballi’s bustling central business district before converging once again at Durgad Bail. From Durgad Bail, the impressive procession continued as a single, unified march, eventually concluding back at the Nehru Stadium.
Throughout the central business district, local shopkeepers and business owners voluntarily closed their establishments, creating a clear path for the march. Spectators lined the roadsides, eager to witness the grand spectacle, many showering the marching Swayamsevaks with flower petals. A particularly notable moment was their passage under a specially constructed arch at Shivaji Chowk in Maratha Galli, which featured a striking equestrian statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji, serving as a symbolic welcome.
An RSS functionary highlighted that these events are a core part of the ongoing centenary celebrations, which also encompass community awareness programs and the distribution of RSS uniforms in various regions. Adding to the prominence of the march, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi was among the notable participants.
Addressing a large public gathering after the route march at Nehru Stadium, RSS Joint General Secretary Krishna Gopal asserted India’s capability to effectively counter global economic challenges, specifically referencing the U.S. tariff war. He further emphasized how India, despite its rich diversity of castes and communities, stands as a powerful global message of unity. Gopal passionately urged all Hindus to join a nationwide campaign initiated by the RSS, aimed at fostering a proud Hindu society and contributing actively to the creation of a developed nation.
Channaveer Mungarwadi, Chairman of the Sri Siddharoodha Swami Mutt Trust Committee, echoed these sentiments, stressing the paramount importance of prioritizing the nation above all else in public service. Several other prominent figures, including MP Jagadish Shettar, MLA Mahesh Tenginakai, MLC Pradeep Shettar, and entrepreneur V.S.V. Prasad, also participated in the significant event.