Introduction
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has completed its 100 years on 27 September 2025. Founded by Keshav Baliram Hegdewar in 1925, the RSS aims at making India predominantly a Hindu civilizational state (Hindu Rashtra). Since then, the RSS has been working on strengthening Hindu cultural identity in India, starting from the grassroots level to the national level through its more than 36 operational sister organizations.
This Issue Brief discusses the RSS’ impacts on Indian society and polity, its 100-year achievements, and future objectives. In 100 years, the RSS has come a long way from just an organization to indirectly ruling over the world’s most populous country, India. This incredible journey must not be ignored.
