RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat's Comments Spark Retirement Rumours

The idea that one should retire at the age of 75 has been a topic of discussion. But when RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, during a program, mentioned an anecdote about RSS leader Moropant Pingale retiring at 75, it sparked speculation about whether he himself is considering stepping down.

In fact, Bhagwat will turn 75 on September 11 this year. However, the reality is that he was merely quoting something Moropant had once said. Meanwhile, Bhagwat has a packed schedule throughout the year in connection with RSS’s centenary celebrations, which officially begin on October 2 this year and will continue for a full year thereafter.

Mohan Bhagwat to Lead Outreach Programs

The centenary celebrations will conclude in November 2026 with a grand public gathering in Delhi. Starting next month, Bhagwat is set to participate in dialogue programs with intellectuals in four major metropolitan cities.

In fact, while launching a book on Moropant Pingale, Bhagwat recalled an incident from an RSS meeting held in Vrindavan last year. According to Bhagwat, during that meeting, Moropant was honoured with a shawl upon turning 75. On receiving it, Moropant remarked, “I know what this 75-year shawl means… it means you’ve aged, now step aside and let others do the work.”

Bhagwat’s sharing of this story is what led to speculation that he may be hinting at his own retirement. Just last week (July 4–6), during a meeting of RSS’s regional campaigners in Delhi, Bhagwat’s schedule for the centenary year was finalised. A senior official stated that all centenary year programs have been designed around Mohan Bhagwat, making the idea of his mid-year retirement improbable.

Moreover, there is no fixed retirement age for the Sarsanghchalak (RSS chief) or any RSS office-bearer. The Sarsanghchalak himself decides when to step down.