RSS Teaches 'Nation Is Everything' And That Serving People Is Akin To Serving God: PM Modi In Lex Fridman Podcast

During a podcast conversation with American podcaster Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delved into his lifelong association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organisation. PM Modi recounted how his journey with the RSS began at the tender age of eight, shaping his worldview and informing his political ideology. He recalled being drawn to the RSS's patriotic songs and activities, which stirred something deep within him. He spent entire nights listening to these songs and eventually became a part of the organisation. The RSS's emphasis on discipline, hard work, and patriotism resonated with the prime minister, who has prioritised putting India above all else throughout his life.

Notably, the RSS is a Hindu nationalist organisation founded in 1925. Growing up in a village, PM Modi was drawn to the RSS's patriotic songs and sports activities. He recalls being deeply moved by the songs, which "stirred something inside" him. This early exposure laid the foundation for his future involvement with the organisation. As Prime Minister Modi puts it, "One of the core values that were instilled in us at RSS was whatever you do, do it with a purpose."

He stated, “From the outside, people may call me a leader, some call me the Prime Minister. However, deep within, there is only unwavering spiritual commitment. Every action is dedicated to serving others. People may see a stark difference between a saint and a leader, but to me, there is no real difference... There was a man whose name I don't recall. Whenever he came to our village, he used to hold programmes at different locations. I would spend the entire night listening to patriotic songs. In our village, there was a branch of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, and that's how I eventually became a part of it. One of the core values that was instilled in us at RSS was whatever you do, do it with purpose."

Volunteer Organisation ‘RSS'

The RSS is a colossal organisation, nearing its 100th anniversary, with millions of members worldwide. PM Modi asserted that understanding the RSS requires effort, as it is not merely a political entity but a way of life. The organisation's philosophy is built around the concept of "seva" or service, with volunteers engaged in various social initiatives.

Prime Minister Modi underlined the RSS's role in promoting education, healthcare, and social welfare. He cited the example of Seva Bharti, an organisation founded by RSS volunteers, which runs over 1,25,000 social service projects without government assistance. Similarly, the ‘Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram' has established over 70,000 one-teacher schools in remote tribal areas.

Shaping PM Modi's Political Ideology

The prime minister's association with the RSS has had a profound impact on his political ideology. He believed that the organisation has instilled in him a sense of purpose and discipline. The RSS's emphasis on service and nation-building has shaped Prime Minister Modi's approach to governance.

As PM Modi explained, "The nation is everything, and serving the people is akin to serving God." The philosophy was reflected in his government's initiatives, such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) and the Ayushman Bharat Yojana (Long-Term Health Insurance Scheme).

The RSS's influence extended to the labour union movement in India. PM Narendra Modi notes that the organisation's approach differs massively from traditional leftist ideologies. Instead of focusing on class struggle, the RSS emphasises the importance of workers contributing to the nation's development.

As PM Modi puts it, "Workers unite the world." The shift in perspective reflected the RSS's commitment to promoting national unity and social harmony.

‘Found a Life of Purpose'

PM Narendra Modi's journey with the RSS has been a defining aspect of his life. He credited the organisation with instilling in him a sense of discipline and purpose. As he reflected, "Through the RSS, I found a life of purpose."

PM Modi's association with the RSS has been since his childhood and his narrative stressed the organisation's emphasis on service, social welfare, and national unity.