Celebrating a Century: RSS Marks 100 Years with Grand Event in Mumbai, Bollywood Celebrates Alongside
In a historic milestone, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), one of India’s most influential socio-cultural organizations, commemorated its 100th anniversary in 2025. The centenary celebrations unfolded over a spectacular two-day event held at a sprawling auditorium in Mumbai, drawing attention not only from political and social spheres but also from the vibrant world of Bollywood. This convergence of cultural icons, political leaders, and entertainment celebrities highlighted the profound influence of the RSS on Indian society and its intersections with the film industry.
Day One of the Centenary Celebrations: A Star-Studded Affair
The first day of the celebration, held on Saturday, February 7, 2025, was a grand affair that saw the attendance of numerous prominent personalities from various fields, including renowned Bollywood superstars, acclaimed filmmakers, and influential artists. The presence of Bollywood celebrities underscored the deep-rooted connections between the organization and the entertainment industry, which has long served as a powerful platform for cultural expression and social messaging in India.
Among the notable Bollywood figures present were superstars Salman Khan and Ranbir Kapoor, whose star power continues to dominate the Indian film industry. Accompanying them were celebrated directors and producers such as Mohit Suri, Subhash Ghai, Nitesh Tiwari, Mahaveer Jain, Om Raut, Vikram Malhotra, and lyricist Prasoon Joshi. Their presence added glamour and vibrancy to the event, which also served as a platform to discuss cultural, social, and political themes relevant to contemporary India.
The Intersection of Bollywood and Social Movements
Bollywood has historically played a transformative role in shaping societal narratives and fostering national identity. The attendance of numerous film industry stalwarts at the RSS centenary celebrations exemplifies this symbiotic relationship. Many celebrities used the occasion to voice their support for the organization’s mission, emphasizing themes of patriotism, cultural preservation, and social service.
This event also reflected Bollywood’s evolving role in promoting social messages and engaging with political organizations. The presence of stars from diverse backgrounds highlights the industry’s acknowledgment of its responsibility in fostering social cohesion and national pride through cinema and public appearances.
Updates from Bollywood: Upcoming Films and Projects
The celebration was also a chance to spotlight upcoming Bollywood projects that are generating buzz among fans and critics alike. Notably, actress Ananya Panday and filmmaker Karan Johar are preparing to release their romantic film, Chand Mera Dil. The film features Lakshya, known for his roles in Kill (2024) and The Ba***ds Of Bollywood (2025), and is helmed by director Vivek Soni, whose Netflix original Aap Jaisa Koi (2025), starring R Madhavan and Fatima Sana Shaikh, received widespread critical acclaim.
In addition, Ananya Panday’s recent release, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Main (2025), premiered in cinemas during Christmas and is now available for rent on Amazon Prime Video. The actress is also actively involved in television, currently working on the second season of Call Me Bae, a slice-of-life show backed by Karan Johar that explores contemporary youth culture and social themes.
Karan Johar’s Expanding Film Portfolio
Karan Johar, one of Bollywood’s most influential filmmakers and producers, continues to diversify his portfolio with several high-profile projects. Besides Chand Mera Dil, he is involved in multiple upcoming ventures, including the Netflix film Accused, directed by Konkona Sen Sharma and Pratibha Ranta, which delves into social justice issues. The director is also producing Naagzilla, a fantasy-action film starring Kartik Aaryan, which is generating excitement among fans.
Further projects include an untitled film featuring Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan, promising a fresh narrative that blends social themes with Bollywood glamour. Additionally, Karan Johar is collaborating with Aditya Roy Kapur on a thriller that is yet to be titled, hinting at his continued commitment to exploring diverse genres within Bollywood cinema.
Bollywood’s Role in Cultural and Social Discourse
The convergence of Bollywood personalities at the RSS centenary celebrations underscores the film industry’s integral role in India’s cultural fabric. Bollywood stars are often seen as ambassadors of national identity, using their platforms to promote social causes, patriotism, and cultural values. The event highlighted how cinema and social organizations like the RSS intersect in fostering a shared sense of Indian identity, especially in an era marked by rapid social change.
Moreover, Bollywood’s engagement with organizations like RSS signifies a broader trend where entertainment is increasingly intertwined with social and political discourse. Films and celebrity endorsements are powerful tools in shaping public opinion, and Bollywood’s participation in such historic events amplifies its influence beyond entertainment into societal transformation.
The Significance of the Centenary Celebrations in India’s Cultural Landscape
Celebrating 100 years of the RSS is not just an acknowledgment of a political and social movement, but also a reflection of its enduring impact on Indian society. The event in Mumbai served as a reminder of the importance of cultural unity, patriotism, and social service—values that resonate deeply within Bollywood narratives and the broader cultural ethos of India.
This milestone also offered an opportunity for reflection on how Bollywood has evolved over the decades, from its early days of storytelling to its current status as a global cinematic powerhouse. The participation of prominent Bollywood figures at the event symbolizes their recognition of the collective efforts to shape India’s identity and cultural narrative.
Conclusion: A Fusion of Culture, Cinema, and Social Pride
The RSS’s centenary celebrations in Mumbai exemplified the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and social landscape, where politics, social movements, and Bollywood intersect. As the film industry continues to grow and diversify, its role in fostering national pride, promoting social messages, and shaping cultural discourse remains vital. The presence of Bollywood celebrities at such a historic event underscores their influence in shaping the narrative of modern India and highlights the enduring relationship between cinema and society.
With numerous exciting projects on the horizon and a legacy rooted in cultural pride, Bollywood remains at the forefront of India’s evolving story—celebrating its past, shaping its present, and inspiring its future.
