RSS Not Changing, Simply Evolving With Time: Mohan Bhagwat at Centenary Film Music Launch

Sarsanghchalak launches anthem ‘Bhagwa Hai Apni Pehchaan’ sung by Sukhwinder Singh; ‘Shatak’ film to chronicle RSS’s 100-year journey from 1925 founding to nationwide movement

NEW DELHI — Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday stated that the organization has not changed but is “evolving” and “unfolding with time” as it marks its centenary year. The RSS Sarsanghchalak made these remarks while launching the music of ‘Shatak,’ a film documenting the organization’s 100-year journey, at the RSS headquarters Keshav Kunj in Jhandewalan.

The event featured the release of the anthem ‘Bhagwa Hai Apni Pehchaan,’ sung by renowned playback singer Sukhwinder Singh, marking the first official cultural initiative tied to the RSS’s centenary celebrations.

‘RSS is Unfolding, Not Changing’

Addressing the gathering, Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that while the RSS appears to be changing as it takes new forms over time, it is actually revealing its inherent nature gradually rather than undergoing fundamental transformation.

“The organisation is celebrating its centenary. But as the organisation evolves and takes on new forms, people perceive it as changing. However, it’s not actually changing; it’s simply unfolding gradually,” Bhagwat said.

Using a botanical analogy, the RSS chief explained that just as a seed sprouts into a plant and eventually becomes a tree bearing fruits and flowers, these different manifestations represent the same entity in various stages of development, not fundamental change.

He further stated that the RSS and its founder Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar are inseparable, with the organization embodying the vision and ideology of “Doctor Sahab,” as Hedgewar is reverentially called within RSS circles.

Tribute to Dr. Hedgewar’s Resilience

Bhagwat paid special homage to the psychological strength of Dr. Hedgewar, who founded the RSS in Nagpur on Vijayadashami in 1925. The RSS chief highlighted how Hedgewar overcame immense personal tragedy at a young age without allowing it to diminish his resolve or vision.

Dr. Hedgewar was orphaned at the age of 11 when both his parents died during a plague outbreak. Despite this devastating loss, he maintained remarkable mental fortitude and clarity of purpose throughout his life.

“When Doctor saheb experienced great trauma at a young age, he possessed the ability to withstand even the greatest shocks without letting his faith or nature waver in the slightest. He demonstrated excellent mental health and a strong, healthy mind from the beginning,” Bhagwat said.

The Sarsanghchalak suggested that Hedgewar’s psychological makeup itself could be a subject worthy of academic study and research, given his exceptional resilience and leadership qualities.

Anthem Celebrates Bhagwa Identity

The song ‘Bhagwa Hai Apni Pehchaan’ (Saffron is Our Identity) serves as a powerful cultural statement celebrating the saffron color that has historically symbolized sacrifice, courage, and spiritual strength in Indian tradition.

According to the filmmakers, the anthem portrays the saffron hue not merely as a symbolic color but as a fundamental identity rooted in values, service to the nation, and collective consciousness. The song calls for unity under the saffron flag, urging people to rise together with shared purpose and cultural pride.

Sukhwinder Singh, who has lent his powerful voice to the anthem, expressed his honor at having Bhagwat launch the song. “I’m overwhelmed to have Mohan Bhagwat ji launch my song ‘Bhagwa Hai Apni Pehchaan’. His presence is a blessing, and his vision inspires us. I loved the director’s vision – simplicity with impact. History should be cherished,” the singer stated.

Singh described his involvement in the project as more than professional engagement, calling it “national service.” He said he poured his heart into the composition, hoping it would resonate with audiences and authentically portray “the true spirit of Hindustan.”

‘Shatak’ to Document Century-Long Journey

The film ‘Shatak’ (meaning ‘century’) aims to chronicle the RSS’s 100-year trajectory from its modest beginning with a handful of volunteers in Nagpur to its current status as one of India’s largest voluntary organizations.

The cinematic project seeks to present what the makers describe as the untold story of the RSS, documenting its key leaders, organizational philosophy, and contributions to India’s social and cultural landscape over the past century.

Producer Vir Kapur positioned the film as an acknowledgment of the organization’s journey and its role in shaping contemporary India. “I have always served this nation and through it, the RSS in whatever way I can. Shatak is a humble step in a journey that began a hundred years ago, built through quiet, tireless effort,” Kapur said.

He added that at a time when India is being viewed globally as a source of inspiration, it becomes important to tell this story truthfully. “This film is our small contribution to a much larger mission of clarity, unity and national pride,” the producer stated.

Production Team and Release Plans

‘Shatak’ is being directed by Aashish Mall and co-produced by Aashish Tiwari. The film is presented by ADA 360 Degree LLP and conceptualized by Anil D Agarwal.

In addition to ‘Bhagwa Hai Apni Pehchaan,’ another song titled ‘Bharat Maa Ke Bacche’ was also launched at the event, with both tracks performed by Sukhwinder Singh.

The music launch was attended by senior RSS functionary Bhaiyaji Joshi along with the film’s creative and production team. While ‘Shatak’ is scheduled for theatrical release later this year, specific dates have not yet been announced by the makers.

RSS Centenary Context

The year 2025-26 represents a landmark for the RSS as it completes a century of existence. Founded by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar on Vijayadashami (Dussehra) in 1925 in Nagpur, the organization began with a small group of volunteers committed to what Hedgewar envisioned as character-building and nation-building through cultural renaissance.

Over the past 100 years, the RSS has expanded its presence across India, establishing a network of shakhas (branches) and affiliated organizations working in education, social service, tribal welfare, and various other sectors.

The centenary celebrations include multiple initiatives aimed at presenting the organization’s philosophy, activities, and historical contributions. The film ‘Shatak’ represents a significant cultural component of these commemorative efforts, attempting to reach broader audiences through cinema.

Addressing Perceptions

According to the filmmakers, public understanding of the RSS has often been shaped by external narratives rather than direct engagement with the organization’s stated philosophy and internal workings. The film aims to provide what the makers term an authentic portrayal based on the organization’s own historical records and testimonies.

Bhagwat’s assertion that the RSS is “unfolding” rather than changing reflects the organization’s consistent position that while its methods and reach have adapted to contemporary contexts, its core philosophy remains anchored in the founding vision of Dr. Hedgewar.

The RSS maintains that it functions as a cultural and social organization focused on nation-building through individual character formation, social harmony, and preservation of what it describes as Bharatiya (Indian) values and traditions.

The music launch for ‘Shatak’ represents one of several high-profile initiatives planned to mark the centenary, with the RSS seeking to articulate its narrative through modern media platforms while continuing its traditional grassroots volunteer activities across the country.