On September 15, 2023, we mark the 11th death anniversary of Kuppalli Sitaramayya Sudarshan, the fifth Sarsanghachalak (chief) of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). K.S. Sudarshan, a prominent figure in the world of Hindutva, was known for his unwavering commitment to the principles of the RSS and his staunch advocacy of 'Swadeshi' (self-reliance) in India.

Born on June 18, 1931, in Raipur, K.S. Sudarshan's journey into the world of RSS began at the young age of nine when he attended his first RSS shakha. This early exposure to the organization sowed the seeds of a lifelong association with the RSS. Sudarshan pursued higher education, earning a gold medal in Bachelor of Engineering in Telecommunications from Sagar University. However, he chose to dedicate his life to the RSS cause, becoming an RSS pracharak in 1954.

Throughout his career within the RSS, Sudarshan demonstrated a deep commitment to the Hindutva ideology and the promotion of Hindu culture and values. He rose steadily through the ranks, serving as pranth pracharak in 1964 and eventually being appointed as convener at the national level in 1969. His dedication and leadership qualities did not go unnoticed, and he became the number two in the RSS organization under Rajju Bhaiyya.

In the year 2000, Sudarshan ascended to the highest position within the RSS as the Sarsanghachalak. This transition occurred due to the declining health of Rajju Bhaiyya, who entrusted Sudarshan with the responsibility of leading the organization during a pivotal period.

One of the defining aspects of K.S. Sudarshan's tenure as the RSS chief was his unwavering advocacy of 'Swadeshi' or self-reliance in India. He believed that India's growth and development should be rooted in its own strengths and resources. Sudarshan's advocacy for 'Swadeshi' resonated strongly with the RSS's vision of promoting indigenous products, culture, and traditions. Under his leadership, the RSS actively promoted the idea of 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) as a means to strengthen India's economic and cultural foundations.

Sudarshan's commitment to 'Swadeshi' often put him in the spotlight and occasionally led to disagreements with the political establishment, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He was a Hindutva hardliner who did not shy away from controversy when he felt it was necessary to uphold his principles and the interests of the RSS.

As we remember K.S. Sudarshan on his 11th death anniversary, it is essential to acknowledge the significant impact he had on shaping the narrative of 'Swadeshi' and self-reliance in India. His leadership within the RSS left an indelible mark on the organization and the broader discourse surrounding cultural and economic nationalism in the country. While his approach may have sparked debates and controversies, there is no denying his unwavering commitment to the values he held dear.

Today, as India continues to navigate its path toward self-reliance and 'Aatmanirbharta,' the legacy of K.S. Sudarshan serves as a reminder of the importance of staying rooted in one's cultural and national identity while striving for progress and development. His contributions to the RSS and the Hindutva movement will be remembered for generations to come.

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