'Generational Work': Rashmi Samant on Her Book 'Hundred Years Young'
Author Rashmi Samant discusses her book 'Hundred Years Young', exploring the RSS's generational work and diverse perspectives.
Author Rashmi Samant has released a comprehensive new book titled 'Hundred Years Young: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh', which delves into the complexities of the organization as it marks a century of existence. In a conversation with ANI, Samant emphasized that the RSS is far from a typical organization, describing its mission as one of "generational work" centered around the core philosophy of "man-making."
Beyond the 'Coloured Lens'
Samant argues that the RSS is frequently viewed through a "very coloured lens," where public discourse is often split between extreme criticism or excessive praise. She believes that very few people discuss the organization based on actual lived experiences, which led her to take a unique approach in her writing.
To counter these biases, Samant collaborated with 20 young contributors from a vast array of backgrounds. These contributors include individuals from various faiths—including Hindu, Muslim, Christian, and Jewish—as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. By incorporating these diverse identities, she aims to provide a reasoned, logical, and bold perspective that moves beyond societal stereotypes.
The Concept of 'Man-Making'
According to the author, the scale of the RSS's undertaking is so massive that it cannot be understood in a short period or through a single viewpoint. She explains that the goal of "man-making" is a slow process that unfolds over generations.
"RSS is not your typical organisation. RSS does generational work. The core motto of RSS is man-making, and that is not something that happens in one day or two days; it happens generationally... It has just been four generations, so the goal of the RSS is so massive, and the undertaking is so vast that I do believe that the organisation is only 100 years old," Samant stated.
A Deep and Unexplored Ocean
Samant admitted that the process of researching the book was a transformative experience for her. She compared the organization to the ocean, noting that just as the deep sea remains largely unexplored, so does the full extent of the RSS's activities.
During her research, she encountered anecdotes that surprised her, revealing the organization's involvement in areas she previously knew nothing about. She noted that the RSS works across all sections of society and has had a profound impact on the course of history, not only within India but globally, over the last century.
Key Highlights of the Book's Approach:
- Diverse Voices: Includes insights from people of different religions and gender identities.
- Youth Perspective: Features young contributors who apply logic and critical reasoning.
- Historical Impact: Examines the organization's influence on India's trajectory over 100 years.
- Holistic View: Rejects the binary of blind praise or blind criticism.