Vol. 10, Issue 2, Part B (2024)

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is a formidable and multifaceted organization deeply entrenched in India's cultural and political landscape. Established in 1925, the RSS operates through a well-structured hierarchy, from local grassroots units (Shakhas) to regional and national bodies, facilitating community engagement and nurturing leadership. The present study analyzed the structure and function of social services, ideology, political influence, and controversies surrounding the RSS. The organization's core activities encompass character development, ideological education, and diverse social services, all underpinned by its commitment to the Hindutva ideology. This cultural and national interpretation of Hinduism serves as the foundation of the RSS's vision, aspiring to unify India around its rich cultural heritage. The RSS exerts substantial political influence, primarily through its affiliation with the Bharatiya Janata Party (B.J.P.) and promoting Hindutva. This influence shapes India's political landscape, from policy decisions to electoral strategies and public discourse. The organization's expansive network of local units empowers it to mobilize political support, particularly within India's Hindu majority. However, the RSS has not been immune to controversy, facing allegations of 'Hindu terrorism' and involvement in contentious events such as the Babri Masjid demolition and the Gujarat riots. These controversies have sparked heated debates, legal disputes, and varying scholarly perspectives. Nevertheless, the RSS's positive contributions overshadow these controversies, allowing the organization to flourish and become a prominent advocate for Hindu culture and values on a grand scale.