Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative postal stamp and a special Rs 100 coin at the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in New Delhi on Wednesday. The coin, for the first time in Independent India, features an image of Bharat Mata, seated on a lion in ‘varad mudra’ with swayamsevaks bowing before her. The postal stamp unveiled at the event depict RSS Swayamsevaks participating in the 1963 Republic Day Parade, reflecting the organization’s historic role in building the nation.
Speaking at the programme, Modi cautioned the Swayamsevaks about threats to India’s unity and social harmony. He said that the nation’s strength lies in the ‘Unity in Diversity’ principle. If this strength is broken, the nation will weaken.”
He praised the RSS for its constant commitment to nation-building. Comparing civilisations thriving along the river banks, he said hundreds of lives blossomed in the flow of RSS.
Modi said that the RSS was founded 100 years ago on Vijayadasami and it is no coincidence. The festival symbolizes victory of good over evil truth over falsehood and light over darkness.
The PM also paid tribute to RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and praised his commitment to national service.
RSS was funded in 1925 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, as a volunteer-driven organization to promote cultural awareness, service, discipline and social responsibility among the citizens.
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