Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday said that no single individual or organisation can take “exclusive credit” for India’s independence, emphasising that the nation’s freedom was the cumulative result of the efforts of countless individuals and groups across the country.
Speaking at a book launch event in Nagpur, Bhagwat said the seeds of India’s freedom struggle were sown with the 1857 uprising, which ignited a widespread national movement.
“Discussions about how the country gained its independence often overlook a crucial truth. It was not due to one person. The flames of the freedom struggle were ignited across the nation after 1857,” he stated.
Without naming any particular individual or party, Bhagwat dismissed the idea that one entity could claim singular ownership of the country's “monumental achievement” of freedom from colonial rule.
The comments come amid long-standing criticism of the RSS for its limited visible participation in the Indian freedom movement. Critics frequently highlight the organisation’s absence from significant episodes like the Quit India Movement of 1942.
In response, the RSS has historically maintained that it contributed to the nationalist cause in its own way, with a focus on building a unified society as a means to resist colonial subjugation.
Supporters point to the early involvement of RSS founder K.B. Hedgewar in the anti-British movement, particularly under the influence of nationalist leader Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
Hedgewar was sentenced to one year in prison in 1921 for delivering an anti-British speech and later jailed again for participating in the Salt Satyagraha in 1930.
Bhagwat also referred to criticisms of senior RSS ideologue M.S. Golwalkar, whose writings described the anti-colonial struggle as temporary and reactionary, with greater emphasis placed on what he viewed as “internal enemies.”
Critics argue such positions placed the RSS at odds with the secular, broad-based nationalist movement led by the Indian National Congress.
During his address, Bhagwat elaborated on the RSS’s philosophical stance and organisational ethos. He stated that many who criticise or praise the RSS may not have taken the time to understand it deeply. “Those who take the time to understand our organisation often say they are impressed and have learned much,” he said.
Bhagwat emphasised that the strength of the RSS lies not in individual accolades but in collective action and the dedication of ordinary volunteers.
“The highest rank in the RSS is that of the ordinary volunteer,” he said, adding that true work is carried out by those who serve society selflessly while living ordinary lives.
He also encouraged volunteers to expand their community work and derive fulfilment through service. “Selfless service is the paramount goal for each [RSS] volunteer,” he said.
“A volunteer’s life is full of emotions while living among the people and performing their duty. But his experiences are extraordinary while remaining in an ordinary state.”
He cited the example of young RSS volunteers aiding Indian forces during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War by providing essential supplies. “These acts of bravery and service may not have received widespread recognition, but they are integral lessons shared within the RSS,” Bhagwat noted.
In his concluding remarks, Bhagwat underlined the organisation’s commitment to quiet service rather than public recognition. “Whether anyone comes or not, he [the volunteer] goes to the RSS shakha daily, putting aside his problems, and helping others,” he said.
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