RSS centenary: 7,000 swayamsevaks join pathasanchalan in Hubballi
On Sunday, the RSS marked its 100th year with a big Pathasanchalan (march) through Hubballi as part of the Vijayadasami festival.
About 7,000 Swayamsevaks joined in—up 20% from last year—walking together from Nehru Stadium through the city's busy streets and back again.
Local businesses and residents really got involved
Local businesses and residents really got involved: shops along the route closed their shutters as a sign of respect, and people showered flower petals on the marchers.
A replica of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was erected to welcome the Swayamsevaks at Shivaji Chowk.
Union Minister Prahlad Joshi and other leaders also joined, making it feel like a major community moment.
This march was just 1 piece of the RSS's centenary activities
This march was just one piece of the RSS's centenary activities, which include awareness drives and giving out uniforms.
During the event, RSS Joint General Secretary Krishna Gopal spoke about India's unity in diversity and encouraged Hindus to help build up the nation.
The strong turnout shows how much local interest in RSS has grown this milestone year.