Women Rulers in RSS Narrative: Celebrating Historical Icons

Context:

This article highlights how the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has increasingly focused on celebrating historical women rulers like Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Durgawati, and Rani Abbakka, emphasizing their contributions to defending Hinduism and resisting foreign invaders. Published on March 31, 2025, it sheds light on their legacies and the RSS’s efforts to integrate these figures into its cultural and ideological framework.

Key Information in Points:

• RSS’s Recognition of Women Rulers: The RSS has celebrated historical figures such as Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Durgawati, and Rani Abbakka for their roles in defeating invaders and protecting Hinduism.
• Ahilyabai Holkar’s Legacy:
• • Born in 1725, she became queen of the Malwa region under Maratha rule in 1767 after the deaths of her husband and father-in-law.
  • Ruled for three decades, a period considered highly prosperous for central India.
  • Revered as a feminist icon for pioneering women’s education and empowerment at a time when it was prohibited.
  • Known for renovating temples nationwide, notably the Kashi Vishwanath temple, aligning with RSS’s temple politics.
  • RSS marked her 300th birth anniversary with year-long celebrations ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
• Rani Durgawati’s Contributions:
• • Fought against Muslim rulers, showcasing military prowess and resistance to foreign domination.
  • Celebrated by the RSS for her role in safeguarding Hindu religion and culture.
• Rani Abbakka’s Achievements:
• • Known as Ullala Maharani, a 16th-century ruler from Karnataka, recognized on her 500th birth anniversary by RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale in 2025.
  • Defended Ullal against Portuguese invaders, earning praise as a master administrator, invincible strategist, and valiant freedom fighter.
  • Promoted inclusivity by establishing Shiva temples and pilgrimage sites, aligning with Bharat’s tradition.
• RSS’s Broader Objective:
• • Commemorations aim to honor “unsung heroes” who resisted foreign invaders like Mughals and the British, not just celebrate womanhood.
  • Part of a narrative to counter the Mughal-dominated medieval history and highlight Indian rulers’ contributions.
• Lachit Borphukan Reference: The RSS also celebrated the anniversary of Lachit Borphukan, an Assamese commander who defeated the Mughals, showing a broader focus on regional heroes.
• Efforts to Address Gender Criticism:
• • RSS has faced criticism for being male-centric; responded by featuring mountaineer Santosh Yadav as the first woman chief guest at its 2022 Dussehra event.
  • General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale expressed regret in 2022 over limited women’s participation in Sangh meetings.
• Sangh’s Historical Stance: Since its inception, the RSS has celebrated rulers who fought foreign powers, aligning with its goal to popularize their contributions to national freedom.

Key Terms:

• RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh): A Hindu nationalist organization founded in 1925, focusing on cultural and social initiatives.
• Ahilyabai Holkar: 18th-century Malwa queen known for women’s empowerment and temple renovations.
• Rani Durgawati: Warrior queen who resisted Muslim rulers and protected Hindu culture.
• Rani Abbakka: 16th-century ruler who fought Portuguese invaders and promoted inclusivity.
• Dattatreya Hosabale: RSS General Secretary who highlighted Rani Abbakka’s legacy in 2025.
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: A significant Hindu temple renovated by Ahilyabai Holkar, central to temple politics.
• Lachit Borphukan: Assamese commander celebrated for defeating Mughals, reflecting RSS’s regional focus.
• Santosh Yadav: Mountaineer and first woman chief guest at RSS’s 2022 Dussehra, symbolising gender outreach.

Link To The Original Article – https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/women-rulers-rss-heroes-vote-bank-sangh-politics-9916599/