In a landmark moment Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian PM to visit the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur on Sunday. His visit, which included paying tribute at the memorial of RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, marked a new chapter in the relationship between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its ideological mentor.
Accompanied by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Modi also laid the foundation stone for an extension building of Madhav Netralaya Premium Centre, an eye institute founded in memory of former RSS chief Madhavrao Sadashivrao Golwalkar.
Addressing the gathering, Modi described the RSS as the “banyan tree of India’s immortal culture and modernisation,” emphasizing its century-long contributions to national consciousness. He lauded the organization’s selfless service across the country, calling it synonymous with dedication and discipline.
The visit also holds political significance, coming months after reports of strained ties between the BJP and RSS ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Modi’s speech reinforced the deep-rooted influence of the Sangh in shaping his ideology, a sentiment he reiterated in a recent podcast with Lex Fridman.
As the RSS marks its 100th anniversary, Modi projected a vision for the next two decades, stating that “2025 to 2047 is crucial for laying the foundation of a strong and developed India.” With the nation celebrating 75 years of the Constitution, his visit signals a reaffirmation of ideological alignment between the government and the RSS as India marches toward its centenary of independence.