Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) or National Patriotic Organization is a right-wing charitable; educational; volunteer; Hindu nationalist; non-governmental organization. It is the world's largest voluntary non-governmental organization. RSS states that its ideology is based on the principle of selfless service to India.

The RSS was founded on Vijayadasami Day; 27 September 1925 as a social organization to provide character training through Hindu discipline; to unite the Hindu community in overcoming caste-based divisions; to counter British colonialism in India; and to suppress Muslim separatism. The organization initially drew inspiration from European right-wing groups during World War II. Gradually RSS has grown into an extremely prominent Hindu nationalist umbrella organization and by the 1990s; allied organizations had established numerous schools; charities and clubs to spread its ideological beliefs.

It has been criticised as an extremist organization and as a paramilitary group. It has also been criticised when its members participated in anti-Muslim violence and has since formed militant wing Bajrang Dal. Along with other extremist organizations the RSS was involved in a wide range of riots; often inciting and organizing violence against Christians and Muslims. Pictures From History