New Delhi, Sept 11 (UNI) In a heartfelt tribute on the occasion of RSS Supremo Mohan Bhagwat’s 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the veteran leader as a “living example of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” lauding his unwavering dedication to equality, fraternity, and social harmony throughout his life.
Praising his role in shaping the organisation’s modern trajectory, the Prime Minister said that Bhagwat’s leadership had been characterised not only by administrative acumen but also by intellectual clarity and compassionate vision. Incidentally, the PM Modi also turns 75 on September 17.
The Prime Minister fondly recalled his long-standing association with the RSS Chief’s family and paid tribute to Bhagwat’s late father, Madhukarrao Bhagwat, stating that he too played a key role in nation-building through his unwavering commitment to the Sangh’s ideals.
“My association with the Bhagwat family runs deep. I had the privilege of working closely with his late father, the esteemed Madhukarrao Bhagwat, whose life was a testament to unwavering dedication towards nation-building. Madhukarrao ji, a practising lawyer, spent his youth strengthening the foundations of the RSS in Gujarat and imbued his son Mohan with a steadfast commitment to the cause of the nation,” Modi said in an article published in various newspapers.
Calling his rapport with the youth “noteworthy”, the Prime Minister noted that Bhagwat’s ability to inspire has drawn many young Indians into the RSS fold.
“He maintains close contact with people and values dialogue,” Modi said, adding that Bhagwat’s openness to evolving best practices and his willingness to adapt with the times reflect the dynamism required of a modern leader.
The Prime Minister particularly recalled Bhagwat’s pivotal leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic. Describing him as a “guide during crisis and beyond”, Modi highlighted the strategic clarity with which Bhagwat steered RSS volunteers to continue service amid uncertainty.
“He guided volunteers to continue social service while ensuring their safety, encouraging the use of technology for outreach. Under his leadership, the Sangh organised medical camps and extended help to those in need, balancing global perspectives with local action. Though the Sangh mourned the loss of some dedicated volunteers, his inspiration ensured the indomitable spirit of service endured,” the Prime Minister said.
Reflecting on Bhagwat’s leadership over the past decade and a half, the Prime Minister credited him with overseeing some of the most transformative reforms in the RSS’s 100-year history.
“From the change in uniform to the modifications in the Shiksha Vargs (training camps), several significant changes occurred under his leadership,” Modi said.
The centenary year of the Sangh, which coincides with Vijayadashami, Gandhi Jayanti, and the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, was described by the Prime Minister as a “historic convergence”—made all the more significant by the leadership of Bhagwat.
“Earlier this year, during the inauguration of the Madhav Netra Hospital in Nagpur, I remarked that the RSS is like the Akshayvat—the immortal banyan tree—whose roots are deep and strong because of its enduring values. Mohan Bhagwat’s unwavering dedication to these values inspires all,” Modi recalled.
The Prime Minister also praised Bhagwat’s sustained advocacy for national development initiatives and sustainable living.
“Bhagwat ji has been instrumental in energising the Sangh’s participation in successful mass movements like Swachh Bharat Mission and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. His commitment to environmental causes and sustainable lifestyles is well-known. He places strong emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India),” he noted.
As the RSS enters its centenary year, Modi said that under Bhagwat’s stewardship, the organisation has witnessed not just structural evolution but also a renewed sense of purpose rooted in timeless values.
