Inside the RSS: Hedgewar's Forgotten Legacy, Martial Hinduism & Modern Politics

25/05/2025 1h 32min

Listen "Inside the RSS: Hedgewar's Forgotten Legacy, Martial Hinduism & Modern Politics"

Episode Synopsis

You can buy Sachin Nandha’s book here: https://www.amazon.in/dp/0143467662Sachin Nandha is a philosopher and strategist with a background in private equity. He advises leaders on global trends and is deeply influenced by India’s history and philosophy. As Director-General of the International Centre for Sustainability, he works on initiatives combining thought leadership and environmental progress. He is the author of Hedgewar (Founder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh).In this episode, Vinamre and Sachin discuss:-The life, ideology, and lasting influence of K.B. Hedgewar, the founder of the RSS, along with insights from its archives.-Hedgewar’s views on caste and his relationships with key figures like Bose, Savarkar, Nehru, and Gandhi.-The role of mentorship in the RSS, how Shakhas operate in India and the UK, and the ideological contrast between Hedgewarism and Savarkarism.-The relevance of Hindus reclaiming a martial spirit and how the RSS has evolved over time.-A deeper look at the RSS’s modern appeal and its impact on contemporary politics and society.Watch this episode to explore Hedgewar’s legacy, the evolution of the RSS, and its impact on modern India.00:00 - Who was Hedgewar?6:20 - What's inside the archives of the RSS?12:33 - Why has no one written a biography on Hedgewar before?15:45 - How Shakhas look in the UK24:00 - Mentorship in the RSS30:12 - Hedgewar's views on caste32:22 - Hedgewar and Bose35:44 - Hedgewar and Savarkar38:10 - Hedgewar and Nehru40:35 - Hedgewar and Gandhi43:44 - Was Gandhi an utopian?46:52 - Social structure in the 1920s 1:00:30 - The need for Hindus to return to a martial form of religion1:08:40 - Views on modern RSS Shakhas1:11:21 - Hedgewarism vs. Savarkarism1:20:35 - The appeal of the RSS today1:24:33 - How studying Hedgewar changed his worldview1:28:05 - Conclusion

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