The Tension Between Language Politics And Hindutva In Karnataka
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[*]Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in particular have emerged as the RSS’ bastions. The organisation has a particularly strong network of shakhas across these two districts.
[*]The BJP’s geographical reach also mirrors the RSS’ network across Karnataka. In regions where the RSS has a strong network, it has translated into a strong BJP presence.
[*]The mobilisation around the Kannada identity is particularly strong in the Old Mysore region, including Bengaluru, where the RSS is relatively weak.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) presence in Karnataka goes back to the mid-1930s. The first shakha was set up in 1935 in the town of Chikkodi. Since then (as of 2021), the RSS has expanded to around 4,600 shakhas. In regions like coastal Karnataka, the RSS has established itself as one of the preeminent socio-religious organisations. Its success in coastal, central and northern Karnataka has played a key role in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerging as a major political force. At the same time, regions like Old Mysore offer the RSS an opportunity to grow. Old Mysore is where the RSS and the BJP have had a limited footprint. With 2025 marking the 100th anniversary of the RSS’ establishment, it is a good time to relook at the organisation’s successes and future potential in Karnataka. This piece looks back at the RSS’ origins, growth and examines prospects of expansion in the state.
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From Swayamsevak To Ambedkarite: Bhanwar Meghwanshi On His Break from the RSS
BY Jagisha Arora
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