MCQ Detailed View

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is a prominent right-wing, Hindu nationalist volunteer organization founded in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, India. Its main objective is to promote the idea of a united Hindu society and to foster cultural nationalism. The RSS operates through a network of local branches called “Shakhas,” where members engage in physical training, ideological discussions, and community service.

The RSS ideology emphasizes the revival of Hindu culture, discipline, patriotism, and selfless service to the nation. It advocates for “Hindutva,” a term coined by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, meaning the cultural and civilizational identity of India rooted in Hindu traditions. While RSS leaders claim it is a cultural organization rather than a political party, it has a deep connection with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other affiliates known collectively as the “Sangh Parivar.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been associated with the RSS since his youth. Before joining mainstream politics, Modi served as an RSS pracharak (full-time volunteer). The influence of the RSS is visible in many of his policies and speeches, focusing on nationalism, cultural pride, and community service. The RSS has been involved in various social and humanitarian efforts, including relief work during natural disasters, rural development programs, and educational initiatives.

However, the RSS has also been controversial, facing criticism for promoting what some describe as a sectarian or exclusionary vision of India. Supporters argue that it preserves Indian traditions and fosters unity among Hindus, while critics believe it may marginalize minority communities.

Today, the RSS continues to be one of the largest volunteer organizations in the world, with millions of members. Its ideological alignment with the BJP has played a significant role in shaping India’s current political landscape.