The Rashtra Sevika Samiti was established on 25 October 1936 in Wardha, inspired by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the founder of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and initiated by Smt. Lakshmibai Kelkar.
It is observed that attending a shakha (branch) brings about a significant transformation in the thoughts and behavior of a swayamsevak. Smt. Lakshmibai Kelkar of Wardha experienced this firsthand when her son began attending shakhas. This inspired her to envision a similar organization for women.
Soon after, when Dr. Hedgewar visited Wardha, Smt. Kelkar met him and shared her idea. Dr. Hedgewar welcomed her vision and encouraged her to establish a separate organization for women. He explained that both organizations would function like parallel railway tracks—working alongside each other and complementing one another, but not merging.
Thus, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami (25 October 1936), the Rashtra Sevika Samiti was formally founded in Wardha. Its working style is similar to that of the RSS. In the Samiti as well, the position of the Guru is accorded not to any individual but to the sacred Bhagwa Dhwaj (saffron flag). Through its shakhas and training camps, the Samiti focuses on empowering women physically and mentally through structured programs.
Mrityunjay Kumar Jha
Investment Banker and Thinker on RSS Ideology
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