Savarkar was the brightest ‘guiding star’ between 1857 and 1947: Mohan Bhagwat

December 12, 2025

NEW DELHI, Dec 12, 2025 — Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Friday described Vinayak Damodar Savarkar as “the brightest guiding star between 1857 and 1947” while speaking at an event in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands that also saw Union Home Minister Amit Shah in attendance. Bhagwat’s remarks came as the two leaders unveiled a grand statue commemorating Savarkar’s legacy as part of celebrations marking the 115th anniversary of his inspirational poem Sagara Pran Talamalala.

VIDEO | RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, speaking at the unveiling of the Savarkar statue in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, said: “In the next 20 years, every Indian should strive to fulfill the expectations that Savarkar had for the nation. Savarkar described India as a ‘Hindu… pic.twitter.com/EkRJmPzqIj

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 12, 2025

Event Held in Savarkar’s Honour

The programme was held at the B.R. Ambedkar Institute of Technology Auditorium in Pahargaon and drew senior dignitaries and a large audience, including military leadership and local officials. Bhagwat’s tribute to Savarkar highlighted the freedom fighter’s multidimensional contributions in literature, poetry, law, theatre, and social reform roles that, he said, helped shape India’s struggle for independence.

Savarkar’s Commitment to the Nation

While recalling Savarkar’s years of imprisonment alongside his brothers at the infamous Cellular Jail in the Andamans, Bhagwat cited Savarkar’s letters and personal dedication as emblematic of deep devotion to the nation. He said Savarkar viewed every skill he acquired whether in writing, music, or law as an “offering to the country” and a part of his service to India.

Bhagwat underscored that Savarkar never saw himself through the lens of caste or regional identity but exclusively as a servant of the nation, promoting unity and national cohesion well before Independence.

Message of Unity and National Purpose

Bhagwat used the occasion to reiterate his message that contemporary Indians must uphold national unity and progress. He stressed the importance of self‑reliance (swadeshi) and urged parents and educators to instil in young people a dedication not just to personal success, but also to the nation’s development and collective future.

Echoing Savarkar’s vision, he said the country must work toward cultural strength and unity, values that he described as foundational to the idea of India itself.

Savarkar’s Enduring Legacy

Savarkar widely regarded as a freedom fighter, poet, and ideologue remains a complex and influential figure in India’s independence movement. His contributions to nationalist thought, particularly the development of ideas around cultural nationalism, continue to spark discussions across political and academic circles.

The unveiling of the statue and related commemorations are part of broader efforts including artistic and cultural presentations to highlight Savarkar’s role in India’s path to freedom and to inspire future generations to appreciate the sacrifices of earlier patriots