December 26th, 2025 - From the Margins to the Mainstream: How the Hindu Right Shaped Modern India

In his most prominent speech of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi used India’s annual Independence Day address to publicly acknowledge the organization that shaped his early life and now plays a decisive role in Indian politics. His remarks marked his strongest and most explicit recognition yet of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, or R.S.S., a Hindu nationalist organization that has grown into a powerful force as it marked its 100th anniversary.

Founded a century ago with the goal of reviving Hindu identity after centuries of foreign rule, the R.S.S. has evolved from a controversial fringe movement into one of the most influential political and social networks in the world. Despite periods of prohibition and long-standing criticism — including past accusations linked to Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination — the group has steadily expanded its reach and legitimacy, particularly during Mr. Modi’s 11 years in national office.

With one of its most prominent figures now leading India, the R.S.S. has gained unprecedented access to power and institutions. Its influence extends deep into government agencies, political parties, educational systems, media outlets and civic organizations. Through a vast web of affiliated groups, it recruits, trains and positions loyal members across society, ensuring its agenda will endure beyond any single leader.

At the heart of the organization are its local branches, known as shakhas, where volunteers gather daily for physical training, ideological discussion and community bonding. These meetings, replicated tens of thousands of times across the country, serve as both recruitment hubs and training grounds for future leaders. It was through this system that Mr. Modi himself rose, beginning as a young volunteer before entering politics. The political arm most closely associated with the R.S.S. is Mr. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party, which has dominated elections and reshaped India’s political landscape. Supporters view the movement as a unifying force that promotes discipline, cultural pride and national strength. Critics, however, argue that its Hindu-first philosophy has deepened religious divisions and marginalized minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians.

As the R.S.S. celebrated its centenary, its leaders struck a careful public tone, emphasizing inclusivity and social harmony while reaffirming their vision of India as fundamentally Hindu in character. This balance between moderation in speeches and assertiveness on the ground has fueled debate about the group’s long-term goals and methods.

With its organizational discipline, grassroots reach and close alignment with India’s ruling party, the R.S.S. stands as one of the most consequential forces shaping the country’s future. Whether viewed as a guardian of tradition or a challenge to India’s secular foundations, its influence is now firmly embedded in the nation’s political and social fabric.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Grandiose (adj, gran-dee-OHSS) - Grandiose is usually used disapprovingly to describe something that seems impressive or is intended to be impressive, but that is either not possible or practical.

Example: The long-vacant historic building has finally been purchased, and the developer has announced grandiose plans to make it the center of a new theater district.

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