Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday released a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a postage stamp to mark the 100th anniversary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The event, held at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in the capital, was attended by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, senior swayamsevaks, cabinet ministers and cultural dignitaries.
The coin features the national emblem on one side and an image of Bharat Mata in Varad Mudra on the other, flanked by swayamsevaks offering salutations. Officials said this is the first time Bharat Mata has been depicted on Indian currency. The reverse side also carries the RSS motto, “Rashtraya Swaha, Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama” which translates to “Everything is for the nation; nothing is mine.” The postage stamp released alongside commemorates the participation of RSS swayamsevaks in the 1963 Republic Day Parade, marking their contribution to national ceremonies.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi described the centenary as a historic milestone and hailed the RSS for its “century-long journey of selfless service and sacrifice.” He said the organisation had faced challenges and bans in independent India but continued to uphold the spirit of unity and constitutional values. Linking the release of the commemorative items to the occasion of Vijayadashami, Modi said it symbolised the triumph of truth over falsehood.
The Prime Minister also recalled that RSS founder Dr. K. B. Hedgewar and many swayamsevaks were imprisoned during the freedom struggle, and said the organisation’s service extended to social, cultural and humanitarian fields. “The RSS has always worked with the spirit of nation first, society first,” he added.
The event, however, drew sharp criticism from the opposition. The Congress party alleged that the RSS had “stood with the British” during the freedom struggle and claimed that it was the Congress that spearheaded the fight for independence. In a statement, the party also referred to V. D. Savarkar’s petitions to the colonial authorities, accusing the government of attempting to rewrite history.
As part of its centenary celebrations, the RSS has announced a year-long series of programmes, including a nationwide door-to-door campaign starting in November to spread its ideology and literature among the masses. Leaders said the campaign would focus on community outreach, cultural awareness and youth participation.
The release of the commemorative coin and stamp highlights not only the organisation’s place in India’s socio-political landscape but also the continuing debate over its legacy. For supporters, it represents a century of dedication to national service, while critics view it as an attempt to legitimise contested historical narratives.
With the RSS marking its centenary, the coming year is expected to witness both celebrations and intensified political discourse, as the organisation seeks to expand its reach and reaffirm its influence in contemporary India.
