The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its “best representative,” saying that he is spreading the organisation’s ideas through governance in his own style.
The remarks were made by RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale during an address in Washington, where he is on a tour engaging with academics and members of the Indian diaspora.
“He is doing it in his own way,” says RSS leader
Hosabale said that while Modi does not always use the same language as the RSS, many of his initiatives reflect similar thinking.
He said, “He may not express the same words. For example, he said ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’. We have said plant a tree.”
He added that such differences were only in expression, not in intent, and described Modi as a “Swayamsevak” whose approach naturally aligns with the organisation’s philosophy.
Key Focus Areas of RSS for Next 25 Years
Hosabale also outlined five major priorities the RSS has set for the next 25 years. These include social harmony, removing colonial mindset, strengthening civic sense, promoting family values, and adopting sustainable development models.
He said these goals reflect the organisation’s long-term vision for Indian society and cultural development.
Linking Government Programs to RSS Ideology
The RSS leader pointed to several government schemes, saying they reflect the organisation’s values. He mentioned initiatives like “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and the “Panch Pran” outlined by Modi in his Independence Day speech in 2022.
According to him, “Many government programs reflect RSS thinking. So being a Swayamsevak, these things come naturally to the Prime Minister.”
Outreach and Misconceptions Abroad
Hosabale said the RSS has traditionally worked silently but is now increasing its outreach efforts internationally. He stated that the organisation wants to communicate its views more clearly.
He also said there are misconceptions about the RSS, especially in Western countries, where it is often seen only as a religious organisation.
“We are not just a Hindu organisation as is often believed abroad,” he said, adding that the RSS aims to correct what it calls distorted narratives about India and Hindu culture.
