The RSS is known for its efforts to root out divisive tendencies through initiatives like One Temple, One Well, and One Cremation Ground. It is admirable that several projects of social service and transformation are being implemented with the spirit of harmony. The work of swayamsevaks in poor localities across the country to improve education, health, and public awareness is particularly commendable, said former President Ram Nath Kovind.
Kovind recalled that Mahatma Gandhi had also acknowledged the Sangh’s emphasis on unity and equality. Gandhiji was deeply impressed by the practice of harmony, equality, and the complete absence of caste-based discrimination in the RSS’s functioning. A detailed description of this is available in the Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi, the former President noted.
He further mentioned that Gandhi addressed an RSS rally in Delhi on September 16, 1947, where he referred to his visit to an RSS camp years earlier during the lifetime of founder Dr. K.B. Hedgewar. During that visit, Gandhiji was very impressed by the discipline, simplicity, and total absence of untouchability in the camp.
Kovind also highlighted Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s 1940 visit to an RSS shakha in Karad town of Maharashtra’s Satara district, which stands as a historical testimony to the organisation’s inclusive approach. He stated that both Dr. Hedgewar and Dr. Ambedkar played a pivotal role in shaping his own thoughts. “I was inspired by the values of national unity and social harmony shared by Dr. Ambedkar and Dr. Hedgewar. There is no casteism and discrimination in RSS,” he stressed.
Reflecting on the importance of political participation, Kovind expressed regret that many good people were staying away from politics. “I appeal to the youth to be part of the country’s political landscape. Only then will Indian democracy achieve its true potential,” he said.
He also informed the gathering that he is currently writing a book titled *Triumph of the Indian Republic*, which will examine India’s democratic journey.
The Vijayadashami rally, a major annual event in the RSS calendar, witnessed a large turnout of swayamsevaks and featured references to the centenary of the organisation, which was founded on Dussehra in 1925 by Dr. Hedgewar.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/dussehra-2025-gandhiji-admired-absence-of-caste-bias-in-rss-says-ram-nath-kovind-in-nagpur-rally-23596905
