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| Keshav Baliram Hedgewar ji |
On October 12, 2024, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) will celebrate its 100th foundation day, marking a century of fostering nationalism, discipline, and societal development.
For those unfamiliar with the RSS and wondering what Swayamsevaks do in a Shakha, today we will explain what it is and what activities take place there.
What is a Shakha?
A saffron flag (called the Bhagawa Dhwaj) flutters in the midst of an open playground. Youths and boys of all ages engage in a variety of indigenous games. Uninhibited joy fills the air. There are exercises, Suryanamaskar, and sometimes training in skilfully wielding the “Danda.” All activities are carried out with total discipline. The physical fitness programmes are followed by the group singing of patriotic songs. Also part of the routine is the exposition and discussion of national events and issues.
The day’s activities culminate in the participants assembling in orderly rows in front of the flag at the single whistle of the group leader. They reverently recite the prayer “Namaste Sada Vatsale Matrubhoome” (My salutation to you, loving Motherland). The prayer verses, as well as the group leader’s various commands, are all in Sanskrit. The prayer concludes with a heartfelt chant of the inspiring incantation, “Bharat mata Ki Jai.”
- This, in essence, is a Shakha of the RSS. The participants are known as “Sangh Swayamsevaks.”
- The Shakha is the most effective and time-tested instrument for moulding individuals along patriotic lines, far beyond its physical dimension.
- This process is further strengthened by graded training camps called “Sangha Shiksha Varga” at the provincial and national levels, held at regular intervals.
The RSS has popularised the observance of six national festivals of social significance: Varsha Pratipada or Hindu New Year; Hindu Samrajya Dinotsav on Jyeshtha Shuddha Trayodashi, commemorating the coronation of Chatrapati Shivaji; Gurupooja on Ashadha Poornima; Raksha Bandhan on Shravana Poornima; Vijayadashami on Ashwayuja Shuddha Dashami; and Makara Sankranti.
