Celebrating 100 Years of Rashtra Sewa

RASHTRIYA SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH (RSS)

Introduction: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is one of the largest voluntary organisations in the world. It was founded in 1925 to promote social unity, discipline, and service to the nation. Over the years, the RSS has grown into a major cultural and social force in India, inspiring millions of volunteers to work for society.

Foundation and History: The RSS was founded on 27 September 1925, which was the day of Vijayadashami (Dussehra), in Nagpur, Maharashtra by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. At that time, India was under British rule, and there was a need to instill patriotism, unity, and self-confidence among the people. Hedgewar’s vision was to create an organisation that would train individuals to dedicate themselves to the service of the country.

Organisation and Activities: The basic unit of the RSS is called a Shakha (meaning "branch"). In a Shakha, members, known as Swayamsevaks, gather regularly for physical training, group games, patriotic songs, discussions, and social service activities. The aim is to build discipline, leadership, and teamwork.

The RSS does not have a formal membership system—anyone attending Shakhas and contributing to activities becomes part of it.

Ideals and Principles - The RSS emphasises:

● Discipline and Character-building

● Selfless Service (Sewa) to society

● Nationalism and Patriotism

● Unity beyond caste, language, or region

● Preservation of Indian culture and traditions

Social Work and Contributions: The RSS and its volunteers are known for their social service. They have actively participated in relief work during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation also runs schools, hostels, and service projects in rural and tribal areas, focusing on education, health, and social welfare.

Influence and Legacy: Over time, the RSS has influenced many social, cultural, and political movements in India. Several organisations, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), have connections with the RSS.

Its impact on Indian society is significant, as it continues to inspire volunteers to dedicate themselves to the nation’s service.

Importance on Dussehra: The day of Dussehra (Vijayadashami) holds special importance for the RSS because it was on this day that the organisation was founded in 1925. Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and righteousness over injustice. For the RSS, this day represents the beginning of its mission to build a strong and united India through discipline, service, and cultural values.

Every year on Dussehra, the RSS holds its annual Vijayadashami address, where the Sarsanghchalak (chief of RSS) shares the organisation’s vision, achievements, and future goals. This tradition highlights how the ideals of courage, unity, and service—central to Dussehra—remain guiding principles for the RSS even today.

Centenary Celebration – 100 Years of RSS: This year, 2025, marks a historic moment for the RSS as it completes 100 years since its foundation. The centenary celebrations are not just an occasion to look back at its long journey, but also to renew its commitment to the ideals of nationalism, social service, and cultural pride. For millions of Swayamsevaks, this Dussehra is especially significant because it celebrates a century of dedication to the nation and sets the vision for the next hundred years.

Conclusion: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not just an organisation but a movement devoted to the values of unity, service, and patriotism. By promoting discipline and social service, it has played an important role in India’s cultural and social development. Its foundation on Dussehra gives it symbolic strength, and in 2025, its centenary celebration makes this day even more meaningful, reminding us that the spirit of service and victory of good are timeless values for every generation.

Towards a Data-Driven World

A CAREER AS A DATA SCIENTIST 

Have you ever wondered how Netflix suggests movies you’ll love, how Google Maps tells you the fastest route, or how Instagram shows you posts that match your interests?

The answer is data science. Data scientists are like detectives who search through huge amounts of information to find patterns and solutions. Their work helps companies make smart decisions.

What do Data Scientists do?

A data scientist’s job is exciting but challenging. Here’s what they usually do:

● Collect data from different sources like apps, websites, surveys, or social media.

● Clean the data (because real-world data is often messy!).

● Ask the right questions — for example: Why are customers leaving a shop? How can we improve a delivery system?

● Use statistics, mathematics, and computer programs to find answers.

● Build models that can predict future trends.

Explain their findings to managers, engineers, and even non-technical people in simple words.

● Work with different teams like marketing, operations, and customer service.

In short, they turn raw data into useful knowledge.

Where are they needed?

Everywhere! 🌍

■ Healthcare → predicting diseases and improving treatment.

■ Sports → improving player performance and team strategy.

■ Finance → detecting fraud and managing risks.

■ E-commerce → recommending products you’ll like.

■ Education, manufacturing, telecom, transport… the list goes on.

If you’re curious, enjoy problem-solving, and love learning, data science can open endless doors.

How do you become a Data Scientist?

1. Education

First, study Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science at school.

In college, take a degree in Math, Statistics, Economics, Computer Science, or Engineering.

2. Learn Programming

Languages like Python, R, SQL, and Java are must-knows.

Practice with small projects and competitions (like Kaggle).

3. Higher Studies / Courses

Postgraduate courses in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, or Business Analytics are helpful.

Subjects you’ll study: data visualisation, cloud computing, machine learning, database systems, and more.

4. Keep Practising

Build your own projects: analysing cricket scores, predicting exam marks, or studying YouTube trends.

This helps you gain confidence and stand out.

Skills you need

✔ Strong maths and problem-solving skills

✔ Good communication (to explain tough ideas simply)

✔ Creativity and curiosity to ask the right questions

✔ Patience and persistence (because not every experiment works!)

✔ Team spirit and time-management

✔ Attention to detail

Where can you study in India?

☆Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata – famous for statistics courses.

☆IITs – Kanpur, Bombay, Roorkee, Kharagpur, Bangalore (Mathematics, Computing, and Data Science programmes).

☆Indian School of Business (ISB), Hyderabad and Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai – offer Business Analytics courses.

☆IISERs – BS-MS programmes with a focus on science and data.

Many online platforms and short-term bootcamps also offer training.

How much can you earn? 💰

¤ Freshers (0–2 years): ₹6–10 lakhs per year

¤ Mid-level (3–5 years): ₹10–20 lakhs per year

¤ Senior experts (6–10+ years): ₹20–35 lakhs or more

Top cities for data science jobs in India are Bengaluru, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Pune, and Mumbai.

Job Options

With data skills, you can become:

◇ Data Scientist

◇ Data Analyst

◇ Machine Learning Engineer

◇ Big Data Engineer

◇ AI Specialist

◇ Data Architect

Final word

Data science is one of the most exciting careers of the 21st century. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about solving real-life problems, helping people, and shaping the future.

If you enjoy maths, computers, and puzzles, and if you’re curious about “why” and “how” things happen, this field could be your perfect match!

✨ Remember: Data is the new oil, and data scientists are the engineers who refine it.

The mighty constrictors of South America

ANACONDAS 

Anacondas are a group of large, non-venomous snakes native to tropical South America. Belonging to the boa family (Boidae), these snakes are famous worldwide for their immense size and strength, making them some of the largest snakes on Earth. The most famous among them, the green anaconda (Eunectes murinus), is recognised as the heaviest snake in the world, with females significantly larger than males—a rare trait in the animal kingdom.

Types and Habitat

There are four recognised species in the genus Eunectes:

1. Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) – the largest and most widespread.

2. Yellow Anaconda (Eunectes notaeus) – smaller and found mainly in Paraguay and northern Argentina.

3. Dark-Spotted Anaconda (Eunectes deschauenseei) – a rarer species.

4. Bolivian Anaconda (Eunectes beniensis) – discovered more recently and found in Bolivia.

These semi-aquatic snakes thrive in slow-moving rivers, swamps, marshes, and flooded grasslands of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Their eyes and nostrils on top of their head allow them to remain almost entirely underwater, perfectly adapted for ambushing prey while staying hidden.

Hunting and Diet:

Anacondas are ambush predators. Though sluggish on land, they are fast and graceful swimmers. They wait motionless beneath the water’s surface, then lunge at unsuspecting prey. Using their powerful coils, they constrict—not crush—the prey, squeezing until it can’t breathe.

Their diet includes:

Fish, turtles, and birds

Larger mammals like capybaras, deer, and peccaries

Even caimans and, on rare occasions, jaguars

After a huge meal, an anaconda may go weeks or even months without eating. Their flexible jaws and expandable bodies allow them to swallow prey many times wider than their head.

Size and Physical Features:

Length: Green anacondas can grow over 9 meters (30 feet).

Weight: They can weigh 250 kg (550 lbs) or more.

Diameter: Up to 30 cm (12 inches) thick.

Their olive-green bodies with dark oval spots act as camouflage in murky waters.

They can hold their breath for up to 10 minutes, an adaptation for underwater hunting.

Reproduction and Life Cycle: 

Unlike many snakes that lay eggs, anacondas are ovoviviparous—they give birth to live young. After mating, females carry developing embryos inside their bodies for six to seven months. A single litter can include 20–40 baby anacondas, each already about 60–80 cm (2–3 feet) long and fully independent from birth.

Behaviour and Ecology: 

Solitary Lifestyle: Anacondas are mostly solitary, coming together only during mating season.

Activity: They are mostly nocturnal hunters.

Ecosystem Role: As top predators, they help control populations of capybaras, fish, and other animals, keeping wetland ecosystems balanced.

Cultural Significance and Myths:

In Amazonian folklore, giant anacondas—sometimes called “water spirits” or “sacred snakes”—feature in many legends. Stories of mythical snakes swallowing boats or entire villages have fueled their reputation as fearsome creatures. Popular movies have exaggerated these myths, but in reality, attacks on humans are extremely rare.

Conservation Status: 

Green Anaconda: Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide range and stable population.

Other Species: Face habitat loss, water pollution, and hunting (either for their skin or out of fear).

Protection Efforts: Preserving Amazon wetlands and educating local communities are crucial for their survival.

Amazing Facts About Anacondas:

● Females can be up to five times heavier than males.

● They use heat-sensing abilities to detect warm-blooded prey in the dark.

● Indigenous peoples sometimes view them as guardians of water sources.

● Anacondas can regurgitate their prey if threatened, allowing them to escape quickly.

Conclusion:

The anaconda is more than a symbol of power—it’s a key part of South America’s delicate ecosystems. By understanding these giants, we not only discover their fascinating biology but also learn the importance of protecting rainforests and wetlands where they thrive. Far from being monsters, anacondas are reminders of the wild beauty and balance of nature.

The Ancient Shrine that Inspired Modern Architecture

CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE, MITAOLI 

Perched atop a hill in the quiet village of Mitaoli, Madhya Pradesh, the Chausath Yogini Temple—also known as Ekattarso Mahadeva Temple—is a unique architectural and spiritual marvel. Built in the 11th century by King Devapala of the Kachchhapaghata dynasty, it is one of the few surviving temples in India dedicated to the 64 yoginis, powerful female deities revered in Tantric traditions.

A Temple of Yoginis

The term Chausath Yogini literally means “64 yoginis.” These goddesses, associated with mysticism and cosmic energy, played a vital role in Tantric worship practices. The temple’s design reflects this sacred purpose—an open-air circular courtyard surrounded by 64 chambers, each believed to have housed an idol of a yogini. At the very heart of the structure lies an open mandapa (pavilion) dedicated to Lord Shiva, symbolising the union of masculine and feminine energies in the universe.

Architectural Brilliance

The temple’s architecture is both simple and profound. Constructed entirely of sandstone, it stands as a testament to India’s medieval craftsmanship. The circular layout is particularly striking, creating a sense of harmony and cosmic balance. The open-to-sky design reflects the Tantric principle of worship under the vast expanse of the heavens—signifying communion with cosmic forces, beyond the confines of enclosed spaces.

Link to Parliament House

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Chausath Yogini Temple is its alleged influence on modern Indian architecture. Many historians and architects believe that its circular design and central dome served as the inspiration for the Parliament House in New Delhi, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker in the early 20th century. The resemblance is remarkable—both structures feature a circular form with chambers arranged around a central open space. This connection highlights how ancient Indian architectural wisdom continues to shape modern civic spaces.

A Blend of History, Spirituality, and Legacy

Beyond its architectural significance, the Chausath Yogini Temple represents India’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions. It preserves a rare glimpse into the Tantric practices of the medieval period while also standing as a symbol of continuity between India’s sacred past and its democratic present. Visitors who climb the stone steps leading to the hilltop temple are rewarded not only with breathtaking views of the landscape but also with a profound sense of connection to centuries of heritage.

✨ In essence, the Chausath Yogini Temple at Mitaoli is more than an ancient shrine—it is a living link between history, spirituality, and modern nation-building.

The Legend of Revolutionary India

SHAHEED-E-AZAM BHAGAT SINGH 

Bhagat Singh, fondly remembered as Shaheed-e-Azam, was one of the greatest revolutionaries of India’s freedom struggle. Born on 28 September 1907 in village Banga, Punjab (now in Pakistan), he grew up in a family deeply involved in the national movement. His father and uncle, Ajit Singh, were active in progressive politics, which deeply influenced young Bhagat.

Early Education and Inspiration

In 1923, Bhagat Singh joined National College, Lahore, founded by Lala Lajpat Rai two years earlier in response to Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement. The college encouraged students to shun British-subsidised institutions and embrace nationalist ideals.

First Arrest and Literary Pursuits

In May 1927, Bhagat Singh was arrested on false charges of involvement in a bombing but was released after five weeks on surety. Alongside his political activities, he expressed his revolutionary thoughts through writing. He edited and contributed to Urdu and Punjabi newspapers published in Amritsar, wrote low-priced pamphlets for the Naujawan Bharat Sabha, and often used pseudonyms such as Balwant, Ranjit, and Vidhrohi.

Saunders Assassination

The turning point came in December 1928, when he, along with Shivaram Rajguru—both members of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA)—assassinated John Saunders, a British police officer. The act was intended to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, who had succumbed to injuries from a lathi charge ordered by Superintendent James Scott. Mistaking Saunders for Scott, they carried out the shooting, while Chandra Shekhar Azad shot dead Head Constable Channan Singh, who tried to pursue them. The trio went underground for months.

Assembly Bombing and Trial

In April 1929, Bhagat Singh resurfaced with Batukeshwar Dutt, setting off two low-intensity bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi. They deliberately caused no casualties, instead throwing leaflets and raising slogans of revolution. They surrendered willingly, declaring through their leaflet:

“It is easy to kill individuals, but you cannot kill ideas. Great empires crumbled, while the ideas survived.”

Hunger Strike and Popularity

Bhagat Singh’s stature grew immensely after his arrest. He joined Jatin Das in a hunger strike, demanding better treatment for Indian political prisoners. The strike lasted several weeks and ended tragically with Das’s death in September 1929, which stirred the nation’s conscience.

Martyrdom

Ultimately, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were sentenced to death in the Lahore Conspiracy Case. On 23 March 1931, at the young age of 23, the trio was executed in Lahore Central Jail. Their sacrifice ignited a wave of patriotism across India, inspiring countless others to join the freedom struggle.

Legacy

Bhagat Singh remains immortal in India’s history—not only for his daring revolutionary acts but also for his vision of an independent, socialist, and egalitarian India. His words and deeds continue to inspire generations with the message that while men may perish, ideas of freedom and justice live forever.

---

The Book Instead of Toys

An inspiring incident from the life of Shaheed Bhagat Singh that reflects his determination, courage, and patriotism:

When Bhagat Singh was a young boy, his father once asked him what gift he wanted. While most children would ask for toys or sweets, Bhagat Singh surprised everyone by asking for a gun to fight the British. His father, instead, gave him a book on the freedom struggle. Little Bhagat Singh happily accepted it and began reading about the lives of freedom fighters.

This showed his early passion for the nation and his strong desire to dedicate his life to India’s freedom. Even at such a tender age, he was not interested in material things—his mind was set on the fight for independence.

Why it’s Inspiring

This incident tells us that true inspiration can begin in childhood when we choose knowledge and purpose over short-term pleasures. Bhagat Singh’s choice reflected his clarity, determination, and vision, which later shaped him into one of India’s most fearless revolutionaries.

The story within the story

 THE TALE OF TALES - The girl who outsmarted the travellers

Long ago, when the Earth was still an open canvas, people lived as wanderers. They travelled from one place to another in search of food, shelter, and clothing. With no radio, no television, and no telephones, people turned to stories for entertainment. Stories carried wisdom, knowledge, and laughter from one generation to the next.

It was common for travellers to exchange tales for a place to rest, or even for food. A good storyteller could earn a warm meal, and sometimes, even escape a hard day’s work.

One evening, a group of weary friends arrived at a resting spot after a long day’s journey. Hungry and tired, they began to argue about who should fetch firewood and cook dinner. None of them wished to move. Just then, they saw a young girl walking along the same path.

“Ah,” whispered one traveller perhaps she can help us.”

They stopped her and asked, “Little one, would you like to hear some stories?”

The girl’s eyes lit up. She loved stories more than anything. “Yes, I would love that,” she said eagerly.

The travellers smiled at each other, for they had a plan. “Let’s make it interesting,” one of them suggested. “We will tell you stories that sound impossible. If you say they are impossible, you must cook for us. But if you tell us a story, and we say it’s impossible, then we must cook for you.”

The girl agreed.

The first traveller began:

“My grandfather was a poor farmer. He worked in a rich man’s house, where he was mocked every day for being slow and clumsy. Yet, he never stopped praying to God. One night, God appeared to him in a dream, and when he woke, he felt an immense power flowing through his body.

The next time his master scolded him, that power rushed to his veins. He grew in size, lifted the entire house on his shoulders, and leapt high into the air! The cupboards crashed, the beds flew, and the windows shattered. His master trembled with fear and begged him to stop. From that day onward, he was no longer a servant but treated as part of the family.”

The traveller finished and asked, “Well? Do you agree with my story?”

The group and the girl nodded. No one disagreed.

The second traveller stepped forward with his tale:

“My grandfather lived through a terrible famine. He was weak and had little to his name. One day, after quarreling with his brother, he wandered into a forest and saw a man painting. To his amazement, the man painted a deer that sprang to life!

Greedy for this magical brush, my grandfather tricked the painter. He painted a boat with the man inside it, added strong winds, and blew him far away. Now the brush was his. He painted clouds heavy with rain and fields filled with grain. His village prospered, and he was made treasurer.

In time, he painted a son, and later a beautiful daughter for his son to marry. And so, I was born to painted parents. The brush is gone now, but perhaps my smooth hair is a gift from it. I still use the best herbs from the best orchard that my grandfather once painted.”

He finished with a proud smile. “Do you agree with my story?”

“Yes, we all do,” said the group and the girl.

Now it was the young girl’s turn. She sat tall and began:

“My grandparents were noble people, respected for their strength and generosity. They possessed treasures of great power—a chest filled with hulk-like strength and magical objects such as a wish-granting paintbrush.

But during a time of civil strife, their servants betrayed them and fled with these possessions. My parents spent their lives searching, and today, I too have set out on this quest. And here, at last, I find those possessions—with you. You are the long-lost servants of my family who stole from us.”

The travellers shifted uncomfortably.

The girl finished firmly, “This is the end of my story. Do you agree?”

The group stammered. “Yes… we do.”

“Excellent,” said the girl with a smile. “Now, return my possessions.”

The travellers quickly backtracked. “No, no—we don’t agree after all!”

The girl’s eyes twinkled. “Ah, but if you disagree, then the rules say you must cook for me.”

The travellers realised they had been outwitted. With no choice left, they gathered firewood, lit the fire, and cooked a fine meal.

And so, while the tired travellers toiled over pots and pans, the clever girl rested peacefully, listening to the crackle of the fire and savouring her victory.

From that day, the story of the little girl’s wit spread far and wide, reminding everyone that cleverness can be stronger than strength—and that a good story can win you more than just a smile.

The Magician Who Made India Proud

SUHANI SHAH 

Suhani Shah has carved a special place in history as one of the world’s most talented magicians. Known as a magician, mentalist, mind reader, YouTuber, and author, she created a milestone for India by winning the Best Magic Creator Award at the FISM World Championship of Magic 2025 in Italy — a prestigious event often called the Olympics of Magic. She is the first Indian ever to receive this award, bringing global recognition to Indian magic.

Early Life and First Steps in Magic ✨

Born on 29 January 1990 in Udaipur, Rajasthan, Suhani grew up in a Marwari family where magic was not just entertainment but a passion. Her father, himself a magician, supported her dream when at the age of six she declared she wanted to pursue magic as her career.

In 1997, at just seven years old, Suhani performed her first live magic show in Ahmedabad. From that moment, she never looked back. With time and dedication, she rose to become one of India’s most renowned mentalists.

The Magic of the Mind 🧠

Unlike traditional magicians, Suhani’s art focuses on psychology, observation, and storytelling. Her acts often combine mind reading with deep human connection, leaving audiences spellbound.

Her big international breakthrough came when she appeared on the Australian TV show “The Project.” There, she amazed the hosts by correctly guessing an iPhone passcode and performing other impossible-seeming tricks. Clips of this performance went viral online, introducing her to audiences across the world.

Making History at FISM 2025 🏆

At the FISM World Championship of Magic in Italy, Suhani competed against top magicians from the USA, UK, Australia, UAE and many other countries. In 2025, the event introduced a new category — FISM’s Online Magic Awards, honouring digital magicians who share their craft through platforms like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.

Suhani not only participated but won the award for Best Magic Creator, marking a historic first for India. This achievement made her an inspiration to young magicians worldwide.

A Global Digital Star 🌍

Today, Suhani has become one of the most followed mentalists in the world, with over 4.5 million YouTube subscribers and 2.1 million Instagram followers. Her digital performances attract millions, proving that magic can thrive in both theatres and online spaces.

Beyond Magic: A Guide to Life 🌸

Suhani Shah is not just an entertainer. She is also a hypnotherapist and author who helps people overcome fear, self-doubt, and limitations. Her book “Unleash Your Hidden Powers” offers readers practical tools to build confidence and find happiness.

Inspiring the Next Generation 🌟

From a seven-year-old performing her first magic trick to becoming a global icon, Suhani Shah’s journey is a story of dreams, dedication, and breaking barriers. She stands as proof that with passion and hard work, nothing is impossible.