Biography of Keshav Baliram Hedgewar:
Keshav Baliram Hedgewar was a prominent freedom fighter, social activist, and the founding leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization in India. He played a significant role in the nationalist movement and the revival of Hindu culture and values.
Here is a brief biography of Keshav Baliram Hedgewar:
Early Life and Education:
Birth: Keshav Baliram Hedgewar was born on April 1, 1889, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
Education: He pursued his medical studies at the prestigious Calcutta Medical College and later obtained a degree in medicine. He was deeply influenced by the freedom struggle during his student years.
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| Biography of Keshav Baliram Hedgewar |
Involvement in the Freedom Movement:
Active Participant: Hedgewar actively participated in the Indian freedom movement against British colonial rule. He was inspired by leaders like Lokmanya Tilak and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
Imprisonment: He was arrested multiple times for his involvement in nationalist activities and spent a total of about a year in British prisons.
Hedgewar’s Establishment of RSS:
Founding RSS: In 1925, Keshav Baliram Hedgewar founded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Nagpur with the aim of promoting the values of nationalism, self-discipline, and Hindu culture.
Ideology: RSS emphasized physical fitness, discipline, and moral values. It became a prominent organization working toward social and cultural rejuvenation.
Hedgewar’s Contribution to Hindu Nationalism:
Hindu Rashtra: Hedgewar envisioned a strong and united Hindu society. He worked to promote the concept of “Hindu Rashtra” (Hindu nation) and cultural nationalism.
Organizational Growth: Under his leadership, RSS expanded its activities and gained popularity among Hindu youth across India.
Legacy:
Passing: Keshav Baliram Hedgewar passed away on June 21, 1940, at the age of 51.
Influence: His vision and ideology significantly influenced the growth of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which, over the years, became one of the largest and most influential socio-cultural organizations in India.
Commemoration:
Hedgewar Smriti Utsav: Every year, RSS organizes the Hedgewar Smriti Utsav to commemorate his life and contributions to the organization and the nation.
Keshav Baliram Hedgewar’s legacy lives on through the continued work of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which has played a prominent role in shaping India’s cultural and political landscape. The organization continues to focus on the promotion of cultural and social values while working toward the betterment of society.