The uniform is largely for ceremonial purposes. The RSS does not make it compulsory to wear even for its daily shakha gatherings. It is to be worn on occasions like vijayadashmi, apart from routine marches, or while carrying out disaster relief operations so that they are easily recognized by people in need.
Dussehra is a historic day for the RSS; on this day the organization was founded in 1925 by K B Hedgewar. Held on October 11, it was unique this year for reasons elaborated in his annual speech by Sarsanghsanchalak Mohan Bhagwat. For media, however, it was momentous mainly for the new RSS uniform—with trousers replacing shorts—unveiled for the first time in public.
RSS is known for rendering help to the people in the event of disasters like floods and earthquakes. During the pneumonic plague of 1994 in Surat, RSS rendered very useful service. This epidemic, which lasted for two harrowing weeks, caused widespread panic and triggered an exodus of large numbers from the city, doctors included. Estimates suggest that a quarter of Surat’s population fled during this time. The RSS hired a aircraft and flew into the city with medical relief material.
Dropping altitude to conduct an aerial survey, an unusual site greeted those on board; it was a steady stream of men in khaki shorts. They were RSS men and were helping bury and cremate the dead and doctors from as far as Ahmedabad, from Sangh affiliated National Medicos organization. Even after two years, those on board, still narrate this tale with a tinge of incredulity and an appreciation of the RSS.
The Sarsanghchalak’s speech is an event that invites scrutiny. It is perceived as a ‘state of union’ address by many in the press. With the BJP in power, it is often seen that way. But no one in Sangh would draw that equivalence. It is but a valued tradition. It started with Hedgewar, at a time when a group of no more than 15 swamsevaks would listen to the address, and now in Bhagwat era millions tuning in their thousands—including ministers, celebrities and religious heads—attend the event. It has been 91 years, and a lot has changed in terms of perceptions and fame, but the purpose remains the same.
Resham bagh, where RSS Shakhas are held, was purchased by Hedgewar in 1932 for a paltry Rs. 2000. Resham Bagh today is festive with attendees of all ages. The oldest participant is a spunky old man who has been attending shakhas since 1932. His name is M G Vaidya. He holds the distinction of having worked with all Sarsanghsanchlaks except one, since he met Hedgewar at just a boy. At 95, this family man boasts of two sons who are pracharaks.
Vaidya says switch in uniform has to do with change in times and need of comfort. It is a mark not only of belonging to the Sangh, but also of three principles; patriotism, spirit of service and discipline. (IPA Service)
INDIA
RSS ADJUSTING TO CHANGE OF TIMES
NEW SHORTS INDICATE THAT SANGH HAS ARRIVED
Harihar Swarup - 2016-10-22 16:37
For a very long time, the ‘kickers’ of the RSS have been ridiculed. Now the blooming shorts have been replaced by khaki pants. For a long time, knickers have had an intriguing hold over the media. A few years ago, there was chatter that blooming shorts would be replaced which has been done now. It was conjectured that the organization was planning to update its look to appeal to the young. The routine criticism of khaki shorts has had little influence over members of the RSS. Queries of change of attires have always been met with bemusement. It would surprise RSS baiters that sartorial ridicule elicit mirth and not self-censure.