‘Grit & Glory’ released in Guwahati, highlights RSS work in Northeast

GUWAHATI, October 1, 2026 — An intriguing book titled Grit & Glory: How India's Northeast was Transformed One Heart at a Time, authored by writer Abhijit Joag, was released at the NEDFi Convention Centre in Guwahati on September 26.

The book was formally released by Rajiv Kr Bora, IAS (retired), in the presence of senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharaks Haribhau Mirasdar and Ulhas Kulkarni. The programme was presided over by journalist Nava Thakuria and attended by a large number of RSS karyakartas and civil society representatives.

Published by New Delhi-based Suruchi Prakashan, the 300-page book is priced at Rs 445 and carries a foreword by Union minister Nitin Gadkari. RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, in a message cited in connection with the book, described it as an account of the dedication of young workers of the RSS and Rashtra Sevika Samiti in the Northeast.

The book narrates the stories of individuals associated with the Sangh who worked for social transformation in Northeast India, including accounts of workers who lost their lives while carrying out their activities. It also examines the region's history, challenges and social changes, with particular attention to RSS pracharaks and volunteers associated with affiliated organisations.

Speaking at the launch, Bora recalled the challenges faced by RSS workers during the organisation's early years in the Northeast and said several pracharaks lost their lives while working in the region.

Mirasdar said the RSS began its work in the Northeast from Guwahati in 1946 and that its expansion remained slow for several years. He said Sangh workers continued their activities despite the challenges they encountered.

Kulkarni spoke about the opposition and hostility faced by Sangh volunteers in parts of the Northeast during the early years of their work in the region. He also referred to the RSS's support for the Assam Agitation over the issue of illegal migration from Bangladesh.

In his closing remarks, Thakuria called for what he described as more credible and balanced media reporting on the RSS and its activities. He said sections of the Indian media often highlight negative aspects of the organisation.

At the beginning of the programme, the distinguished guests offered Pushpanjali before a portrait of Bharat Mata. The programme was anchored by Nabamita Deb, while Rita Bhuyan performed a Borgeet. Hirak Sarma offered the vote of thanks.

The programme concluded with the singing of the full version of Vande Mataram.