New Delhi — In a historic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday unveiled a special ₹100 commemorative coin and a postage stamp at the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). For the first time in independent India, the new coin bears an iconic depiction of Bharat Mata
Symbolism and Design
- Obverse side: The ₹100 coin features the Indian national emblem.
- Reverse side: It presents a majestic depiction of Bharat Mata in Varada Mudra (the gesture of blessing), seated on a lion, with RSS swayamsevaks shown bowing before her in reverence.
- Also inscribed on the coin is the RSS motto:
“Rashtray Swaha, Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama”
— loosely translated as “Everything is dedicated to the nation; everything belongs to the nation; nothing is mine.” - The years 1925–2025 are also included to mark the RSS’s hundred years of existence.
The postage stamp released alongside the coin commemorates the participation of RSS swayamsevaks in the 1963 Republic Day Parade, capturing a symbolic moment in the organisation’s history. The stamp carries the motto “Rashtra Bhakti – Seva – Anushashan” (Patriotism – Service – Discipline).
Remarks at the Launch
Speaking at the unveiling, the Prime Minister described the event as a matter of “great pride and historical significance,” emphasizing that this is the first time Bharat Mata has appeared on Indian currency since independence. He lauded the RSS as a bastion of selfless service, dedication, and nation-building over the past century.
Modi invoked the symbolism of Vijayadashami, the day the RSS was founded in 1925, linking it to the victory of virtue over injustice — “truth over falsehood, light over darkness.” He paid tribute to Dr. K. B. Hedgewar, the founding figure of RSS, and highlighted the organisation’s commitment to social service, education, cultural values, and community upliftment.
Reactions and Criticism
The unveiling has drawn both praise and criticism. Supporters view it as a symbolic recognition of the RSS’s century-long role in India’s socio-cultural landscape.
However, opposition figures have expressed strong reservations. The Congress and Left parties have accused the government of using state symbols to further ideological narratives. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned why the RSS is being glorified, especially pointing to Sardar Patel’s historical criticisms of the organisation. The CPI(M) described the depiction of a Hindu goddess-like figure on official currency as a violation of secular norms and an overruling of constitutional principles.
Significance & Legacy
The coin and stamp release coincides with the centenary of a major social-cultural organization in India. The use of Bharat Mata, a figure deeply associated with Hindu symbolism, marks a new chapter in how national identity, faith, and state imagery intertwine. The event underscores the enduring influence of national mythos and symbolism in contemporary India.
As India moves forward, this commemoration may leave a lasting imprint not only in numismatic collections, but also in the symbolic lexicon of nationhood—and in the debates around pluralism, state symbolism, and the ideals the Republic wishes to project.
