Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has made a compelling appeal to citizens, urging them to commit to a developed India by fulfilling the five pledges outlined by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The call came during his inaugural address at a lecture series organized by Bharatiya Vichar Manch in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.
RSS Centenary Celebrations and National Vision
The event, held at the Gujarat University Convention and Exhibition Centre, marks the significant milestone of RSS completing 100 years of continuous service to the nation. Chief Minister Patel emphasized that the organization has consistently operated with the 'Nation First' motto throughout its century-long journey.
"Let us realise the Panch Prana given by the Sangh and be committed to a developed India," Patel stated in his powerful address. He highlighted that the RSS has presented these five pledges through its creative approach that offers solutions to global challenges.
Enduring Legacy and National Impact
CM Patel noted that even after a hundred years, the fundamental ideas of RSS haven't changed but have instead become more profound and comprehensive. "It is said about the Sangh that under its guidance, ordinary people are doing extraordinary and wonderful work," he added, praising the organization's focus on personality development and preparing youth dedicated to national service.
The Chief Minister connected RSS's century of service with various national programs that have highlighted the spirit of 'Nation First' under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. These include celebrations of:
- 150 years of Vande Mataram
- 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda
- 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
- 100th birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee
- 75 years of the Constitution
He emphasized that the RSS centenary now joins this prestigious list of national commemorations.
Event Highlights and Distinguished Presence
The inauguration ceremony saw participation from several distinguished personalities, including Shubhanginiraje Gaekwad, chairperson of Bharatiya Vichar Manch and chancellor of MS University, and Stephen Hickling, British deputy high commissioner. Other notable attendees included Gujarat University vice chancellor Neerja Gupta, Chairperson of Navrachana Education Society Tejal Amin, and various BJP leaders.
The venue features an extensive walkthrough exhibition showcasing RSS's journey through historical documents, photographs, and thoughts of leaders, complemented by a multimedia show and documentary film. The event remains open to the public until November 14, providing citizens an opportunity to engage with this significant historical presentation.
On the first day of the lecture series, RSS Sahasarkaryavah Dr. Krishna Gopal delivered an insightful lecture titled 'Yugadrishta Dr Hedgewar: Journey from Seed to Banyan Tree'. He described Dr. Hedgewar as a prominent national leader and organizer in modern Indian history who, after completing medical studies, dedicated his entire life to nation-building.
The ongoing event at Gujarat University Convention Centre represents a significant moment in recognizing RSS's century of contribution to national development and its continuing relevance in contemporary India's growth story.
