PM Modi Celebrates Mohan Bhagwat’s 75th Birthday, Highlights Leadership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended heartfelt wishes to Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), on the occasion of his 75th birthday. In a message delivered on September 11, 2025, Modi praised Bhagwat’s lifelong dedication to social harmony and his significant contributions to organizational reform within the RSS.

In his tribute, Modi characterized Bhagwat as a torchbearer of the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which translates to “the world is one family.” The Prime Minister noted Bhagwat’s commitment to fostering equality, unity, and brotherhood among communities. Modi remarked, “It is a happy coincidence that Bhagwat ji turns 75 in the same year that the RSS marks its centenary,” and he offered prayers for the RSS chief’s longevity and continued good health.

Legacy of Service and Leadership

Reflecting on Bhagwat’s journey, Modi highlighted his active role during the Emergency in the 1970s, his efforts in Maharashtra’s underdeveloped regions, and his time spent in rural Bihar, all aimed at empowering society. Rising through the ranks of the RSS, Bhagwat served as the Akhil Bharatiya Sharirik Pramukh in the 1990s, became Sarkaryawah in 2000, and ascended to the position of Sarsanghchalak in 2009.

Modi described Bhagwat’s leadership as marked by vision, intellectual depth, and compassion, stating, “He has led with vision, intellectual depth and compassionate leadership.” The Prime Minister also credited Bhagwat with implementing significant reforms within the RSS, particularly during its transformative phase, which included changes to uniforms, training methods, and the organization’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Prime Minister noted Bhagwat’s ability to engage with the youth and his openness to new ideas, emphasizing his focus on technology and global perspectives. Modi stated, “His tenure will be remembered as the period of greatest change in the Sangh’s 100-year journey,” particularly highlighting Bhagwat’s role in mobilizing volunteers for nationwide campaigns such as Swachh Bharat and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao.

Personal Qualities and Vision for the Future

Modi also praised Bhagwat’s personal attributes, describing him as soft-spoken, a good listener, and deeply rooted in Indian culture, with interests ranging from music to literature. “Every swayamsevak dreams of a prosperous Bharat Mata. Mohan ji embodies both clear vision and strong action to realize that dream,” he remarked.

As the RSS prepares to celebrate its centenary on Vijayadashami this year, which coincides with Gandhi Jayanti and Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti, Modi referred to this milestone as a “historic moment.” He expressed the good fortune of millions of swayamsevaks in having Bhagwat as their leader, calling him a “visionary and hardworking Sarsanghchalak.”

The Prime Minister’s message not only commemorates Bhagwat’s birthday but also underscores the pivotal role he plays in shaping the future of the RSS and its mission to promote social harmony and national service in India.