PM Modi Visits RSS Headquarters, Hails Sangh as the "Banyan Tree" of India’s Culture

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur for the first time in 11 years after becoming Prime Minister. During his visit, he addressed a gathering at the Madhav Netralaya Premium Centre, reflecting on the achievements of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the past decade and acknowledging the significant role of the RSS in shaping the nation's progress.

In his speech, Prime Minister Modi praised the RSS, describing it as the “banyan tree” of India's immortal culture. He expressed his deep connection with the organisation and its teachings, stating, “Guru Golwalkar’s teachings have been my life mantra.” He underscored the RSS’s role in nurturing the nation’s cultural and spiritual identity.

Modi also highlighted India’s advancements in healthcare, particularly through institutions like Madhav Netralaya, which play a vital role in improving medical accessibility across the country. “Our mission is to ensure that every poor person in India receives the best possible medical treatment,” he affirmed, reinforcing the BJP’s commitment to public welfare.

Addressing the RSS workers, the Prime Minister lauded their selfless service and holistic approach towards nation-building. “Our RSS is a cultural endeavour that works for both inner and outer vision,”he said. The Prime Minister also praised RSS volunteers for their efforts in providing assistance to thousands of devotees during the Prayag Kumbh. “Jahan Seva Karya, Wahan Swayamsevak” (“Where there is service, there is a Swayamsevak”), he remarked, acknowledging their dedication in serving people across cities, villages, and remote areas.

Modi further stressed the importance of a “nation-first” philosophy, explaining, “When our actions are not guided by the consideration of the welfare of the people, but by the philosophy of ‘nation first,’ we become the guiding light for the country.” He urged citizens to continue working diligently for national progress, regardless of the scale of their contributions.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also addressed the gathering, reinforcing the principle of selfless service. “One should do penance, and for that one gets virtue and the reward. But instead of keeping the fruit for ourselves, we should use it for the welfare of others,” he said, encouraging a focus on societal upliftment, particularly in healthcare and supporting the visually impaired.

He spoke about the long journey of the RSS, noting that society had tested and embraced its volunteers. “In Sangh’s philosophy, we say spend one hour on self-development and 23 hours using that growth for society’s welfare. This is our vision, and all our efforts are driven by this very principle,” Bhagwat stated.

Following his visit, PM Modi took to X to share his thoughts, “Visiting the Smriti Mandir in Nagpur is a very special experience. What makes today’s visit even more special is that it coincides with the Vasant Panchami, which is also the birth anniversary of the revered Dr. Saheb. Countless people like me draw inspiration and strength from the thoughts of Dr. Saheb and revered Guruji. Paying tribute to these two great individuals, who envisioned a strong, prosperous, and culturally proud India, was an honour.”​