On the 75th birthday of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid glowing tribute to his “inspiring life and unwavering commitment to national service.” Sharing an article on Bhagwat’s journey, the PM wrote, “Inspired by the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Shri Mohan Bhagwat ji has dedicated his entire life to societal transformation and strengthening the spirit of harmony and fraternity. On this special occasion, I have penned a few thoughts on Mohan ji and his inspiring personality. Praying for his long and healthy life in service of Maa Bharti.”
Calling him a living embodiment of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Modi said Bhagwat’s leadership coincides with a significant milestone—the RSS centenary this year. He noted that this anniversary falls on the same day as the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, describing it as a “pleasant coincidence.” Praising Bhagwat as a “wise and hardworking head” of the Sangh, he said that when people rise above boundaries and embrace others as their own, it strengthens trust, equality and brotherhood in society.
Highlighting Bhagwat’s personal qualities, the PM described him as soft-spoken, deeply sensitive, and exceptionally good at listening. “Being Sarsanghchalak is more than an organisational responsibility. Extraordinary individuals have defined this role through sacrifice, clarity of purpose and unshakable commitment to the nation. Mohan ji has done full justice to this responsibility while bringing his own intellectual depth and empathetic leadership, guided by the principle of ‘Nation First’.”
Modi said Bhagwat has steered the Sangh through complex challenges by balancing continuity with adaptation. “He has a natural connect with the youth and constantly engages with them, integrating more youngsters into the Sangh Parivar. His public interactions have been especially valuable in today’s dynamic, digital era.”
The PM also praised Bhagwat’s support for initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. Recalling his own RSS days, Modi shared memories of Bhagwat’s father, Madhukarrao Bhagwat, who played a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation in Gujarat. “Such was Madhukarrao ji’s passion for nation-building that he groomed his son, Mohanrao, to continue the work. It is as if one parasmani prepared another.”
Born on September 11, 1950, in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, Bhagwat has been at the helm of RSS’ affairs for over 16 years, making him its third-longest-serving chief after M.S. Golwalkar and Madhukar Dattatraye Deoras. His tenure has seen significant changes, from uniforms to training structures, underscoring his transformative leadership. Speculation arose recently after Bhagwat’s remarks in Nagpur were interpreted as a hint at retirement at 75. Later clarifying in Delhi, he said he was merely quoting Sangh veteran Moropant Pingle’s quip about ceremonial shawls, and never suggested he—or anyone else—should retire.
Incidentally, PM Modi himself turns 75 on September 17.
