RSS Centenary Year: Hosabale Calls for Social Unity and Civic Responsibility in Shillong
By Our Correspondent Shillong, 21st March 2026
As part of the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, its Sarkaryavah (General Secretary) Dattatreya Hosabale addressed a Prominent Citizens’ Meet in Shillong, emphasising social unity, cultural identity and civic responsibility.
The event, organised by RSS Meghalaya, was held at Courtyard by Marriott Shillong and brought together distinguished members of society for dialogue and exchange of ideas.
In his keynote address, Hosabale recalled Shillong’s association with national icons like Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore and Subhas Chandra Bose. He traced the RSS journey since its founding in 1925 by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur, noting its expansion to nearly 85,000 daily shakhas nationwide.
Hosabale said Hedgewar founded the organisation to address social fragmentation that enabled foreign domination, stressing that the RSS seeks to organise society rather than function as just another institution. Highlighting India’s civilisational ethos, he said diversity in language and culture strengthens national unity, which must be sustained through continuous social work and character building.
He underscored that transformation begins with individuals, families and ethical conduct guided by dharma as moral responsibility. Addressing misconceptions, he said the centenary year aims to expand societal engagement with the RSS message of collective contribution.
Hosabale outlined “Panch Parivartan,” focusing on social harmony beyond caste divisions, swadeshi consciousness, family values, environmental responsibility and civic duties. During an interactive session, he raised concerns over drug abuse, calling it both a social and security challenge, and stressed the need for strong families and vigilance.
On women’s empowerment, he highlighted the importance of eliminating harmful customs while recognising traditional leadership roles. He also reiterated that the RSS does not support religious discrimination and respects constitutional freedoms.
He concluded by urging citizens to engage directly with the organisation to better understand its work and vision.
