Modi’s mention of the RSS in his Independence Day speech was more than a ceremonial nod—it was a personal and political statement rooted in his own journey. For some, it was a proud acknowledgment of a century-old institution’s social contributions; for others, it reopened debates on historical narratives and inclusivity. As India steps forward, this moment serves as a reminder that our strength lies not in erasing differences, but in embracing every strand of the nation’s story.

What Did Modi Ji Say About RSS in His 2025 Independence Day Address?

On August 15, 2025, from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the “biggest NGO in the world,” praising its 100 years of commitment to nation-building, civic service, and social cohesion .

Why Did He Mention the RSS—And What’s Important for the Public to Reflect On?

1. Acknowledging a Long–Standing Influence

• Modi often credits the RSS for shaping his personal ethos. In a March 2025 conversation with podcaster Lex Fridman, he described how joining the RSS as a child gave him a sense of purpose, discipline, and devotion to serving the nation—values he carries forward in his political life .
• In another interview, he emphasized RSS’s social contributions over decades—especially towards education, empowering women, uplifting tribal communities, and inspiring youth with value-driven development .
• By mentioning RSS in his Independence Day speech, Modi was reaffirming that these values—discipline, service, and community—remain foundational to his governance philosophy.

2. Symbolism Meets Governance

Through the lens of political messaging:

Praising RSS bolsters the ideological alliance between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and RSS, its ideological mentor.

Framing RSS as a nonpartisan social force (“biggest NGO”) helps blend governance with value-driven civic activism, positioning the organization as a backbone of cultural and social capital.

3. Political Debate Over Historical Narrative

The speech sparked strong reactions:

• Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM) called the praise an “insult to the freedom struggle,” arguing that RSS’s role in India’s independence fight was marginal and that commending it ignores the diversity of contributions in that struggle .
• Akhilesh Yadav (SP) sarcastically suggested RSS should thank the British for its origins, implying it was shaped more by colonial design than nationalist resilience .

The BJP defended Modi’s remarks by asserting that RSS ideology now underpins public discourse and reflects modern-day India’s values .

These debates highlight how comments on RSS inevitably tie into broader discussions about historical interpretation, inclusivity, and national identity.

What common public should understand:

1. Personal Gratitude Meets Identity
For Modi, the RSS represents a personal journey—from childhood values to political ethos. His gratitude isn’t just formal acknowledgment—it reflects lived experience and ideological alignment.

2. Greater Than Politics
The speech positioned RSS not merely as a political ally but as a civic institution—lauded for service, education, and grassroots presence.

3. A Platform for Dialogue
The reaction from opposition leaders underscores that India’s history, especially the freedom movement, is narrated differently by different groups. Criticism today emphasizes inclusivity and ensuring that history honors many voices—not just one ideology.

4. Engaging Thoughtfully Matters
As citizens, it’s vital to listen—to the pride of ideological affiliation and to the concerns of those who feel sidelined by such narratives. Reflecting on these speeches thoughtfully helps deepen our public discourse.

History of RSS

• Founded: 1925 in Nagpur by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar.
• Purpose: Promote discipline, character-building, and a vision of a culturally united India rooted in Hindu traditions.
• Structure: Volunteer-based, non-political (officially), with daily shakhas (physical and ideological training).

Key Controversies

• Accusations of Communal Bias: Critics allege it promotes a Hindu-majoritarian agenda; supporters say it’s about cultural pride, not exclusion.
• Gandhi Assassination Link: After Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination in 1948 by Nathuram Godse (a former RSS member), the organization was accused of fostering extremism—charges it denies.
• Political Influence: Close ideological ties with the BJP raise concerns over blurring lines between governance and ideology.

Bans on RSS

1. 1948: Banned after Gandhi’s assassination; lifted after agreeing to adopt a constitution and remain apolitical.

2. 1975–77: Banned during Emergency by Indira Gandhi’s government.

3. 1992: Banned for a brief period after the Babri Masjid demolition.

Timeline in Short

• 1925: RSS founded in Nagpur.
• 1940s: Rapid growth, especially among youth.
• 1948: First ban post-Gandhi assassination.
• 1950s–60s: Expanded social service and education networks.
• 1975–77: Second ban during Emergency.
• 1980s–90s: Influence rose via BJP and Ram Janmabhoomi movement; third ban in 1992.
• 2000s–present: Nationwide network in education, relief work, and politics; celebrates centenary in 2025

                                      In his 2025 Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as the “biggest NGO in the world,” marking its 100 years of service and influence. Modi framed the Sangh as a force for discipline, social service, and community unity—values he credits for shaping his own life. While supporters celebrated the acknowledgment, critics argued it overlooked diverse contributions to India’s freedom and nation-building, igniting a fresh debate over history, ideology, and identity.

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Also:https://youtu.be/03OlqxM174M?si=1_iWPDCrj3J6ooW3