Nagpur: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat's tribute to veteran ideologue Moropant Pingale drew controversy, after his remark about stepping aside at the age of 75 was interpreted by opposition parties as a subtle nudge towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
While the RSS insists that the comment was only about Pingale, the timing and context have invited political speculation on the same.
Speaking at the launch of ‘Moropant Pingale: The Architect of Hindu Resurgence’, Bhagwat shared an anecdote about Pingale's 75th birthday, recalling how he interpreted the ceremonial shawl as a sign to step back for younger leadership.
"Pingale once said that when the shawl of 75 years is draped over you, it means that you have reached a certain age and should step aside and let others work," Bhagwat said at an auditorium at Vanamati, Nagpur. he described the moment as one of humility and awareness, portraying Pingale as a leader who knew when to make way.
Have a look at his entire statement here:
The RSS later clarified that the comment was context-specific and meant solely to honour Pingale's legacy, asking people not to draw broader references.
Opposition Reacts to Bhagwat's Statement
The Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), however, were quick to pick up on the subtext. With both PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah set to turn 75 in 2025, Opposition leaders claimed the comment reflected deeper undercurrents within the BJP-RSS relationship.
Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called it a “clear message”, hinting at long-standing tensions over BJP’s handling of senior leadership. “Internal conflicts are now public. Nobody knows the fallout of this conflict,” she added.
Congress’s Jairam Ramesh added a sharp jibe “One arrow, two targets... reminded by the RSS chief upon return that he (Modi) will turn 75 on September 17, 2025. But the Prime Minister could also tell the RSS chief that he too will turn 75 on September 11, 2025!”
The BJP has yet to officially respond to the political digs.
