The Sangh seems to be telling people that it is not confined to men or to old tradition-bound structures, but recognises the power and contribution of women and the energy of youth in building the future of the nation
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), often portrayed as an “men’s-only organisation for the elderly”, has been consciously transforming its image with deliberate efforts towards engaging youth and women. As part of an evolved ‘image makeover’ process, the organisation has been reconnecting with more inclusivity than ever before.
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At the heart of this shift is the Sangh’s recent focus on India’s legendary women leaders, the forgotten queens — from Ahilyabai Holkar, the visionary administrator and reformer, to Rani Abbakka, who defended India’s western coast against foreign invaders, and the iconic Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi, a symbol of courage in the freedom struggle.
From issuing special statements on Rani Abbakka during the concluding ceremony of the ABPS on Sunday, to organising year-long programmes based on Holkar’s contribution to Indian civilisation, Sangh is placing such figures at the centre of its public outreach, literature, and commemorations — acknowledging that India’s history of leadership, governance, and reform has been enriched by women.
Even though Sangh has a women’s wing — Rashtriya Sevika Samiti — the main organisation, since its inception, never had the provision of having women members according to its rules and regulations.
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Youth Outreach: Catch Them Young
To make a stronger outreach among the youth and include more young members in the organisational fold through its Shakhas and other social work, the Sangh has designed special programmes to motivate them.
While addressing the concluding ceremony of the ABPS in Bengaluru on Sunday, Dattatreya Hosabale, RSS general secretary, said: “Special programmes for youth will be planned by Prant units. Several programmes for the youth aged between 15 and 30 will be taken up that will focus on nation-building activities, service activities and Panch Parivartan. Local units will plan these events as per need.”
New youth and women-focused programmes are being rolled out as part of the centenary preparations. Youth outreach will focus on students and non-students in the 15–30 age group through large-scale social engagements, seminars, and Sangh training camps. For women, initiatives are being designed to promote leadership, participation in social reforms, and community-welfare activities, he added.
Breaking Stereotypes
Several efforts and programmes taken up recently also mark a clear move towards countering old stereotypes. The message from the Sangh is unambiguous. It seems to be telling people that the RSS is not an organisation confined to men or to old tradition-bound structures, but one that recognises the power and contribution of women and the energy of youth in building the future of the nation.
As the Sangh approaches its centenary, it is trying to position itself as an organisation deeply rooted in tradition but open, inclusive, and ready to inspire the next generation — cutting across gender, age, and social divisions.
