Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Decoding RSS: Tenets of World’s Largest Movement
The RSS, a big volunteer group, is turning 100.
It's about building good people who care about India.
They want to change society so everyone can be their best.
They see all Indians as one, no matter their religion, focusing on values ('dharma') instead of just religion.
They believe in a unique idea of nationalism different from Western ideas.
The RSS doesn't see itself as an organization, but a way of organizing society.
The RSS is a large voluntary movement that will complete 100 years on Vijayadashami.
The RSS aims to create people committed to serving society and the nation.
The objective of the RSS is to transform society by allowing individuals to reach their full potential.
The RSS views all Bharatiyas as part of one nation, regardless of religious affiliation.
The RSS believes in 'dharma' – a set of eternal values – rather than solely 'religion'.
- Who
- The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
- What
- Decoding the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its tenets.
- When
- The RSS is completing 100 years on Vijayadashami.
- Where
- Bharat (India).
- Why
- To understand the RSS, its beliefs, and its unique approach to society and nationalism.
Western Nationalism
Hindu Nationalism
Nationalism Origins
Western Nationalism
Associated with colonialism, wars, and material wealth.
Hindu Nationalism
Hindu nationalism: Roots in Indian culture and history.
- Organization Type
- Voluntary movement
- Focus
- Nation-building and societal transformation
- Core Value
- Dharma (eternal values)
- View on Hindu
- Includes all who consider Bharat their motherland
- View on Nationalism
- Differs from Western ideas of nationalism
- Origin
- Indigenous to India