As the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) approaches its centenary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio broadcast on Sunday, September 28, 2025, praised the organization’s core values. He asserted that the RSS’s true strength lies in its profound spirit of selfless service and rigorous discipline, with a ‘Nation First’ ethos guiding every endeavor of its countless volunteers.
During this milestone 125th edition of his popular radio program, the Prime Minister also reiterated his strong endorsement of the ‘Swadeshi’ movement, encouraging everyone to purchase at least one Khadi product on October 2, commemorating Gandhi Jayanti.
Furthermore, Mr. Modi announced that the government is actively pursuing the inclusion of ‘Chhath Mahaparv’ in UNESCO’s esteemed list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Turning his attention back to the RSS, he remarked, “In just a few days, we will celebrate Vijayadashmi, which holds even greater significance this year. On this very day, the RSS will mark 100 years since its inception.” He described this century-long journey as not merely remarkable, but profoundly inspiring.
He recalled that when the RSS was founded a century ago, India was suffering under colonial rule, a period of “centuries-old slavery that had deeply wounded our self-confidence and self-respect.” At that time, he noted, many citizens were beginning to grapple with an inferiority complex.
“Thus, alongside striving for national independence, it was equally crucial for the nation to break free from ideological subjugation,” Mr. Modi asserted.
It was with this vision that K.B. Hedgewar established the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1925.
“Following his leadership, Guru Golwalkar ji furthered this immense ‘yagna’ – a sacred undertaking – of dedicated national service,” Modi stated.
He reiterated, “The unwavering spirit of selfless service and the profound lesson of discipline are undeniably the true pillars of the Sangh’s strength.”
Today, the RSS continues its tireless dedication, serving the nation for a century without interruption or respite, he observed.
“This is evident,” Mr. Modi explained, “as RSS volunteers are consistently among the first responders during natural disasters. In every single action undertaken by the numerous RSS volunteers, the principle of ‘Nation First’ invariably holds paramount importance.”
During his broadcast, the Prime Minister also honored women navy officers, Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa, commending their remarkable courage and unyielding determination demonstrated during the Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition.
Emphasizing the vital role of festivals in preserving our culture, Modi highlighted Chhath Puja, a revered celebration honoring Surya Dev (the Sun God) through offerings made to the setting sun.
What was once a regional observance, he noted, is now evolving into a global phenomenon. “The government is actively striving to secure ‘Chhath Mahaparv’ a place on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Achieving this will allow people across the globe to witness and experience the festival’s magnificent grandeur and spiritual essence,” Mr. Modi elaborated.
He also reminded listeners that, thanks to the government’s initiatives, Kolkata’s Durga Puja was previously successfully added to the UNESCO list.
Shifting focus to October 2, Gandhi Jayanti, Mr. Modi expressed regret that the popularity of Khadi in India had waned somewhat after the nation gained independence.
However, he pointed out that “over the past eleven years, the appeal of Khadi has experienced a remarkable resurgence, accompanied by a consistent increase in sales.”
“I earnestly appeal to you all to purchase Khadi products on October 2,” he urged, adding, “Proclaim with pride that this is truly ‘Swadeshi’ – indigenous.”
Concluding his address, Mr. Modi also paid heartfelt tributes to the iconic freedom fighter Bhagat Singh and the legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar on the occasion of their birth anniversaries.
“Immortal Martyr Bhagat Singh serves as an enduring inspiration for every Indian, particularly the youth of our nation,” the Prime Minister stated.
Applauding Lata Mangeshkar’s invaluable contributions, Mr. Modi highlighted her patriotic songs, which he noted had profoundly inspired countless people.
As a tribute, ‘Jyoti Kalash Chhalke’, one of Mangeshkar’s revered songs, was also broadcast during the program.