Jaipur: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday emphasized that the organisation’s enduring strength lies in the conviction, commitment, and emotional energy of its volunteers. Speaking at the release of the book “Aur Yah Jeevan Samarpit” at the Pathey Kan Sansthan in Jaipur, Bhagwat reflected on the journey and sacrifices of 24 late RSS pracharaks from Rajasthan, highlighting how the Sangh’s vitality stems from the dedication of its members.

“The Sangh runs on the emotional strength and life-force of its volunteers. By their mindset alone, every swayamsevak becomes a pracharak. That is the Sangh’s life energy,” Bhagwat said, underscoring that the organisation’s core essence is embedded in the personal commitment of its members rather than institutional infrastructure.

He cautioned that despite the RSS’ significant expansion and the improvement of working conditions over the years, its foundational spirit must remain intact. “Today, the Sangh has grown, and facilities have increased, but that brings its own challenges. We must remain as we were during the times of opposition and neglect. Only that spirit will take the Sangh forward,” Bhagwat said, stressing that institutional growth should not dilute the organisation’s original ideals.

Bhagwat also elaborated on the unique nature of the RSS’ work, asserting that it cannot be fully understood from an outsider’s perspective. “Many tried to run branches like the Sangh in competition, but none lasted beyond 15 days. Our branches have run for a hundred years and continue to grow because the Sangh is sustained by the dedication of its volunteers,” he said, highlighting the resilience and longevity of the organisation.

According to Bhagwat, the work of the RSS has now become a matter of public discussion and goodwill. “Who could have imagined a century ago that simple shakhas would contribute to nation-building? People mocked us, saying we were merely waving sticks in the air. But today, the Sangh marks its centenary with growing social acceptance,” he added, noting how public perception has shifted over time to acknowledge the Sangh’s social and cultural contributions.

Referring to the newly released book, Bhagwat said that it not only evokes pride in the achievements of past pracharaks but also serves as an inspiration for value-driven, principled living. He urged the current generation of volunteers to internalize the ideals depicted in the book, stressing that even a small reflection of the brilliance of past pracharaks in one’s own life could contribute to illuminating society and the nation.

The book “Aur Yah Jeevan Samarpit” chronicles the personal and professional journeys of 24 late RSS pracharaks from Rajasthan, highlighting their sacrifices, struggles, and unwavering commitment to the organisation. Bhagwat noted that the lessons from these lives can guide current and future swayamsevaks in their personal development and in their contribution to society.

In his address, Bhagwat repeatedly underlined the idea that the Sangh’s longevity and influence stem less from its structure or resources and more from the voluntary spirit that drives every swayamsevak. He described this commitment as the “life energy” of the Sangh—a force that ensures the continuity of its programs, principles, and social outreach over decades.

Bhagwat’s remarks also served as a reflection on the centenary journey of the RSS, emphasizing how it has evolved from a small, often ridiculed organisation into a nationally recognized body contributing to social, cultural, and nation-building efforts. Despite public recognition and expansion, Bhagwat stressed that the essence of the Sangh must remain rooted in the selfless service and personal discipline of its volunteers.

Concluding his address, Bhagwat encouraged swayamsevaks to imbibe the ideals of discipline, dedication, and selflessness exemplified by the pracharaks chronicled in the book. “If even a particle of their brilliance enters our lives, we too can illuminate society and the nation,” he said, reinforcing the message that individual commitment can collectively sustain an organisation and make a meaningful contribution to the country.

The book launch and Bhagwat’s address were attended by senior RSS functionaries, scholars, and local volunteers, reflecting the organisation’s emphasis on mentorship, learning from past experiences, and fostering values-based leadership among its members. The release of “Aur Yah Jeevan Samarpit” adds to a series of publications and initiatives aimed at documenting the lives and contributions of RSS pracharaks, ensuring that their lessons remain accessible to future generations.

In essence, Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks highlighted a central tenet of the RSS philosophy: the organisation’s enduring strength lies in the conviction, dedication, and moral courage of its volunteers. Despite the passage of time, expansion of operations, and changing socio-political contexts, this core principle remains unchanged and continues to define the Sangh’s identity, purpose, and impact on Indian society.