K. B. Hedgewar

Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar (1889–1940), popularly known as Dr. Hedgewar, was an Indian physician and the founder of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist and voluntary organization in India.

Dr. Hedgevar

Early Life and Education

Dr. Hedgewar was born on April 1, 1889, in Nagpur, a city in the present-day Indian state of Maharashtra. He completed his early education in Nagpur before traveling to Calcutta (now Kolkata) for medical studies, where he earned his degree in medicine.

Political Activism

Influenced by the nationalist fervor sweeping across India during his medical studies in Calcutta, Dr. Hedgewar became an active participant in the independence struggle against British rule. He joined the Anushilan Samiti, a revolutionary group, and later became involved with the Indian National Congress, the leading nationalist political party at the time.

Founding of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh

Dr. Hedgewar's political experiences and ideological reflections led him to believe in the need for an organization that would promote unity and discipline among Hindus. To that end, he founded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1925. The RSS sought to encourage the concept of a united Hindu community, foster a spirit of self-sacrifice and service among its members, and prepare them for participation in the independence struggle.

Role in RSS

As the founder and the first Sarsanghchalak (chief) of the RSS, Dr. Hedgewar played a crucial role in shaping the organization's ideology and operations. He was a charismatic leader, known for his disciplined lifestyle and dedication to the RSS's goals. He held the position of Sarsanghchalak until his death in 1940.

Legacy

Dr. Hedgewar's work through the RSS left a lasting impact on Indian society and politics. The organization he founded has grown into one of the largest voluntary organizations in the world and has spawned several offshoots involved in various aspects of Indian society, including education, rural development, and healthcare.

See Also

• Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
• Indian National Congress
• Indian independence movement

References

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