Refugee Crisis AI generated image. / Generated using ChatGPT

Swami Vivekananda’s observation rings particularly true for mission-driven, multi-generational organizations. It resonates even more powerfully with those that—both in thought and in action—choose not to discredit opposing ideologies, even when those ideologies run counter to their own. Instead of reactive rhetoric, such organizations demonstrate steadfast focus on their core mission, often choosing dignified silence over confrontation.

This restraint is not weakness, but a reflection of deep-rooted confidence in values and vision. However, the idealism of restraint is not without cost. In the absence of self-promotion or counter-narratives, misinterpretation can take root, and over time, misconceptions may flourish.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is one such organization that continuously experienced this path of ridicule - opposition - acceptance. Founded in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the RSS committed itself to the cause of Hindu unity and national regeneration, quietly, systematically, and unwaveringly. Its primary activity—daily Shakhas where men and boys gathered to exercise, play, chant, and listen to discourses—was once mocked as naive or theatrical. Yet these seemingly simple routines were foundational in fostering self-discipline, character-building, and selfless service—principles that would later shape generations of community leaders and volunteers.

Dr. Hedgewar envisioned an India where young men were spiritually aware, physically strong, and socially responsible. Under his leadership and that of his successor, M.S. Golwalkar (Guruji), the RSS began to spread across India, organically drawing dedicated swayamsevaks (volunteers) from all walks of life. And though it avoided the spotlight, the Sangh’s contribution—particularly in times of crisis—was impossible to ignore.

A defining moment in this journey came in 1947, with the catastrophic Partition of India. What was officially framed as “India’s tryst with destiny” turned into a humanitarian nightmare for millions. While leaders announced independence and nationhood from New Delhi, the border regions were plunged into chaos. The Mountbatten Plan of June 3, 1947, was accepted swiftly by Indian National Congress and Indian National Muslim League, thus approving partition of India, leading to violent religious riots, displacement, and the largest mass migration in human history.

In these darkest hours, the RSS chose action over applause.

With Guruji Golwalkar at the helm, RSS volunteers mobilized on the ground, often ahead of government efforts. The Punjab Relief Committee was formed. Camps were established. Women, children, and elderly fleeing violence in Pakistan were escorted to safety—frequently under mortal threat. Food, clothing, and medical care were provided. And tragically, many swayamsevaks lost their lives while saving others.  

“In those days, Sangh swayamsevaks showed unparalleled courage and capacity in saving many families. People were amazed at the way the whole task was accomplished. At that time, I stayed for some days in Amritsar in order to study the situation and encourage the swayamsevaks. I visited camps, where I met people who now hold high positions. They prostrated themselves before me and said, but for your Sangh, we and our women and children would not have been saved. I met Army officers who too praised the great courage of swayamsevaks..Thus the Sangh was praised everywhere,” said Shri. Guruji, in a Marathi article in “Purushartha”, about the valour of swayamsevaks in Punjab.

The RSS, in fact, helped save the Golden Temple at Amritsar twice from the violent attacks. Vajpayee and Paradkar have mentioned these two incidents. The first attack on March 6 was thwarted by swift and brave counteraction by RSS volunteers at Chowk Fawara. Following this, 75 swayamsevaks were stationed to guard the temple under the leadership of Dr. Baldev Prakash, Dr. Indrapal, and Goverdhan Chopra.
 

AI generated Golden Temple. / Generated using Gemini AI

A second assault occurred on March 9, with mobs approaching from multiple directions. Despite a curfew, unarmed pilgrims were trapped inside the temple, and rural Sikh supporters were blocked from entering the city. Responding to urgent calls for help, RSS volunteers mobilized quickly, took strategic positions across the city. Their determined defense turned the tide, forcing the attackers to flee.

In an August 11, 1948 letter responding to Shri Guruji, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, then India's Home Minister, acknowledged the RSS's significant service to Hindu society during times of crisis. He specifically noted that RSS youth protected women and children and provided substantial assistance in areas where their help was needed.

The scale and spirit of their work was captured vividly by A.N. Bali, an English professor from Lahore, Pakistan, in his 1949 book Now It Can Be Told. Bali contrasts the cautious posturing of political leaders with the courageous efforts of “a band of young, selfless Hindus, popularly known as the RSS.” He writes of how the RSS coordinated evacuations and relief with speed, sacrifice, and stunning efficiency.

Their guiding spirit, echoing the Bhagavad Gita, was encapsulated in this profound verse:

या निशा सर्वभूतानां तस्यां जागर्ति संयमी
यस्यां जाग्रति भूतानि सा निशा पश्यतो मुनेः || (BG 2.69)

What is night to all beings is the time of awakening for the self-controlled; and the time of awakening for all beings is night for the introspective sage.

While the rest of the nation celebrated a long-fought independence, the RSS was wide awake to a crisis. Its silent service was rooted in its Prarthana (daily prayer), which articulates the organization’s ethos:

अजय्यां च विश्वस्य देहीश शक्तिं
सुशीलं जगद्येन नम्रं भवेत्
श्रुतं चैव यत्कण्टकाकीर्ण मार्गं
स्वयं स्वीकृतं नः सुगं कारयेत्

O Lord, grant us such strength that none in the world can challenge, such noble character that humbles the world, and such wisdom as may ease the thorny path we have chosen to walk.

The path RSS chose—ridiculed at first, then resisted—is slowly being understood and getting accepted by the broader society. But this evolution wasn’t accidental; it was earned through generations of quiet commitment, crisis response, and unpublicized service. It is the embodiment of Swami Vivekananda’s wisdom and a testimony to the power of purpose-led perseverance.

In a world where perception often outruns truth, and noise overshadows nuance, the RSS’s story invites reflection: that the greatest contributions are not always accompanied by fanfare, but often emerge from the quiet resolve of those who stay true to their dharma, regardless of public recognition. 

 

The author is passionate about environmental sustainability. He is deeply involved in various social work activities in Indian and American communities in the United States. 

(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of New India Abroad)

Note- The images are generated using AI.