The RSS has announced a year-long celebration to mark the 500th birth anniversary of Rani Durgawati, a Rajput who married into the Gond community, starting October 5. Celebrated as a tribal icon who valiantly resisted Muslim invaders, the festivities will be organized by the Sangh’s tribal welfare wing, Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, and will include cultural performances, sports competitions, and the publication of articles about Durgawati.

These celebrations will lead up to the grand observance of ‘Janjaatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day)’ on November 15, coinciding with the crucial Jharkhand Assembly elections, where securing the tribal vote is vital.

Previously, the BJP declared 2025 as ‘Janjaatiya Gaurav Varsh’ to honor the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda and launched the PM-JANMAN scheme aimed at the welfare of tribal communities in Khunti, Jharkhand. On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet also approved the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan, with a budget of ₹79,156 crore, to enhance the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities nationwide. This program aims to provide government benefits to five crore tribal families across 63,000 tribal-majority villages.

The BJP’s efforts come amid concerns that tribal voters in Jharkhand may be distancing themselves from the party, especially following Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s arrest. However, recent political shifts, such as the defection of JMM tribal leader Champai Soren to the BJP, may help regain support.

At the annual meeting of the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram in Samalkha, Haryana, on September 21, plans for the celebrations will be detailed, showcasing prayer rituals from various tribal groups and emphasizing their connections to broader Hindu practices. The RSS maintains that tribal communities are integral to the ancient Hindu belief system.

Pramod Pethkar, the publicity in-charge of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, highlighted Rani Durgawati’s multifaceted legacy, noting her role in defending her people from invaders, her contributions to public welfare, and her efforts in water conservation and justice.

While acknowledging the political backdrop, a senior Sangh leader stated that the celebrations transcend party lines, celebrating Durgawati as a source of inspiration for all, not just tribal communities.

The celebrations will be executed through 21,917 projects run at 16,413 locations nationwide, focusing on education, women’s welfare, and rural development. Rani Durgawati, born on October 5, 1524, was a regent of Gondwana and is primarily remembered for her fierce defense against the Mughal Empire, ultimately sacrificing her life in battle. She remains a revered figure across the Gondwana region.