RSS Route March in Chennai What is it and Why is it in News After Madras High Court Order

Chennai, October 26, 2026* - If you saw a group of disciplined volunteers marching in uniform on the streets of Chennai on Sunday, it was the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Route March.

The RSS held its annual Vijayadashami route marches across Tamil Nadu yesterday, including at seven locations in Chennai, after getting a green signal from the Madras High Court. The event was part of its centenary year celebrations.

What is RSS Route March?

Many people think it is a political rally, but it is not. The RSS Route March, called 'Path Sanchalan' in Hindi, is a traditional and disciplined march by RSS swayamsevaks. In this march, volunteers wear their full uniform - white shirt, khaki trouser, black cap and carry a stick - and march in straight lines to the sound of drums.

It is held every year on Vijayadashami. The reason is that Vijayadashami is the foundation day of the RSS. The organization was started on Vijayadashami in 1925 by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar in Nagpur.

The march ends with a small public meeting where senior leaders give a speech about nation-building and social service. The main aim of the march is to show unity, discipline and to connect with the common people.

Why is it in the News in Chennai?

The RSS completed 100 years in 2025. Now it is celebrating its second century with programs all over India.

For this, the RSS had asked for permission to hold route marches at 128 locations in Tamil Nadu on October 25 and November 2. But the Tamil Nadu government did not give permission, saying it could create a law and order problem.

This has happened before also. For the last 3-4 years, the RSS has had to go to the High Court every year for permission.

This time, RSS State Secretary Jagadeesh filed a petition in the Madras High Court. After hearing both sides, the High Court gave permission for the march at all 128 locations with conditions to maintain peace.

Where Did the March Happen in Chennai?

On Sunday, marches were held at 7 places in Chennai

1. Tiruvottiyur

2. Kolathur

3. Egmore

4. Korattur

5. Ayyappanthangal

6. Medavakkam

7. Chromepet

The Egmore march was the biggest in Chennai. After the march, a public meeting was held at Rajarathinam Stadium. Senior BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan was present there and she offered prayers to the saffron flag.

Talking to the media, she said that the government should see RSS as a social service organization. She said it is sad that the RSS has to go to court every year for a peaceful march.

What Happens Next?

All the marches on Sunday were completed peacefully with heavy police security. No incident of violence was reported.

The second phase of the marches will be held on November 1 and November 2 at the remaining locations across Tamil Nadu.

The RSS says that it has been conducting these marches in Tamil Nadu for the last 70 years, but in recent years permission has become a legal fight.