As Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) completes 100 years this year, the organisation has decided to bring some changes in its annual programme during the grand centenary celebration on ‘Vijayadashami Utsav’. The traditional ‘Path Sanchalan’ (route march) will not be held on Vijayadashami day, but earlier, on September 27, almost five days before the main function. Every year, the ‘Path Sanchalan’ is an important part of the Vijayadashami celebrations, with nearly 5,000 Swayamsevaks taking part. However, for the centenary year, the number is expected to nearly double to 10,000 Swayamsevaks and make it one of the largest ever route marches in Nagpur.

 

To ensure smooth arrangements and avoid delays in the Vijayadashami programme, RSS has fixed a separate date for the march. Sitabuldi has been chosen as the venue for the ‘Path Sanchalan’ and preparations have already begun. Thousands of Swayamsevaks in uniform will march in discipline and showcase the organisation’s unity and strength. Mahanagar Sanghachalak Rajesh Loya informed ‘The Hitavada’ that this year’s celebration will be “grand and historic” due to the overwhelming enthusiasm among Swayamsevaks.

 

“There is a huge response because it is the centenary year. The ‘Path Sanchalan’ will reflect the scale of participation,” he said. Meanwhile, the Vijayadashami Utsav will be held on October 2 at Reshimbagh ground, where RSS Sarsanghachalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat will address the gathering. Former President Ram Nath Kovind will be the chief guest at the centenary event. As part of its 100-year celebrations, RSS has also announced a nationwide programme under Samajik Samrasta banner, which includes over one lakh Hindu sammelans and Ghar-Ghar Sampark Abhiyan to bring together different Hindu communities.