New Delhi, May 22: Sunil Ambecker, the All India Publicity Chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), stated that the organization’s influence was not strong enough during the time of India’s partition; otherwise, the division might not have occurred. He made these remarks during the screening of the documentary “RSS Journey in Delhi,” presented by the Indraprastha World Communication Center.
Ambecker noted that between 1942 and 1947, the RSS expanded rapidly and deeply in Delhi and throughout Punjab. Many individuals joined the organization to contribute to its efforts. He emphasized that at the time of partition, the RSS lacked the necessary strength to prevent the division.
He highlighted that Guruji’s directive during that period was to ensure the complete safety of Hindus in the newly formed Pakistan, and that volunteers should remain steadfast until every individual was safely relocated.
Ambecker acknowledged the countless sacrifices made by volunteers and the immense suffering endured, which is difficult to quantify. Numerous camps were established for the displaced, housing millions. During the chaotic first fortnight of August 1947, while everyone was preoccupied, Guruji was in Karachi, guiding volunteers on how to ensure the safety of the Hindu community.
He remarked that if the RSS had aimed to engage in politics, Dr. Hedgewar would have founded a political party. Instead, his goal was to uplift society and foster a cultural renaissance, which led to the establishment of the RSS. The organization’s mission was to serve society and empower the nation with self-confidence.
Ambecker pointed out that the RSS’s activities in Delhi began in its early days, initiated by Dr. Hedgewar himself. Thus, the history of the RSS is deeply intertwined with its work in Delhi over the past century.
Throughout the years, significant events in the country have underscored Delhi’s importance, and the RSS’s contributions have played a vital role in that context. As the political center of the nation, Delhi has remained a focal point for party politics, even after independence. In this environment, the RSS has continued to operate as a social and cultural organization, striving to unite society beyond its specific programs.
On this occasion, Dr. Anil Agarwal, Delhi Province Chief of the RSS, emphasized the continuity and adaptability that characterize the organization’s work. Ritesh Agarwal, the RSS Delhi Province Publicity Chief, stated that the documentary narrates the story of the RSS’s inception and expansion in Delhi through evidence, memories, and historical events. It depicts the establishment of the RSS in Delhi, the pain of partition, and the organization’s efforts during that tumultuous time.
He added that the film traces the journey from the first branch in Delhi to the extensive reach of the RSS today. Agarwal also mentioned the special edition of “Rashtra Seva ke 100 Varsh” published by “Apni Delhi Apni Baat” in honor of the RSS’s centenary year.
Ritesh Agarwal revealed that over 60 senior workers were formally and informally interviewed for the special edition and documentary. More than 85 books were reviewed, along with articles and archival materials. The research process involved viewing over 100 hours of video footage, including old videos and interviews from the Indraprastha World Communication Center’s archives. Speeches and interviews from former RSS officials and leaders were also studied.
The event was attended by Ashok Porwal, Secretary of the RSS Central Office, and other prominent members of the organization.
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