Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday addressed the long-simmering debate over retirement norms during the event “100 Years Journey of Sangh – New Horizon”. Dismissing speculation, he categorically stated that he never advocated for anyone – including himself or political leaders – to retire at the age of 75.
His remarks come amid renewed discussions, particularly after some earlier comments were interpreted as veiled references to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who turns 75 next month.
Bhagwat explained that his words were drawn from anecdotes by former RSS leader Moropant Pingle, known for his wit and humour. “I quoted Moropant, who was very witty; he would make you bounce on your chair,” Bhagwat recalled, referring to an incident during Pingle’s biography launch in Nagpur.
One such anecdote involved senior leader H.V. Sheshadri draping a shawl over Pingle when he turned 75, which was seen as a light-hearted gesture hinting at stepping back. Bhagwat stressed, however, that this was humorous, not a directive. “I never said I will retire or someone should retire,” he clarified.
Drawing parallels from history, Bhagwat cited the example of Bhaiyyaji Dani, a former RSS leader who managed family duties before fully dedicating himself to the organisation. “Bhaiyyaji Dani was a chief, but a family person has to work for his family first. He handed over his family work and took responsibility as Sangh chief,” he said, underlining the balance between personal and organisational commitments.
Highlighting the scale of the RSS’s volunteer base, Bhagwat noted: “We have 3,500 full-time pracharaks and 5-7 lakh active workers. Still, we are a hopeless minority compared to the country’s vast population. Family people often shift their burden on us. You can only understand.”
Reiterating the ethos of the Sangh, he said, “In Sangh, we are swayamsevaks; we are given a job, whether we want it or not. Sangh runs a Shakha; I have to run it even if I am 80 years old. We do whatever we are told to do.”
As the current Sarsanghchalak, Bhagwat pointed out that while he holds the post now, there are at least ten others capable of taking over whenever necessary. “This is not about retirement for anybody. We are ready to work as long as the Sangh wants from us,” he asserted.
