Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar
Guruji - A Life of Service and Leadership
A visual journey through the life, teachings, and national vision of Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar — where history meets inspiration.
Early Life & Education
Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar, affectionately known as Guruji, was born on February 19, 1906, in Ramtek, near Nagpur, Maharashtra. From childhood, he showed a deep curiosity for spirituality, Indian heritage, and moral values.
He pursued his early education in Nagpur and later completed his Master’s in Zoology from Banaras Hindu University under the mentorship of Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. Though he had an academic future ahead, Guruji chose the path of national service and cultural awakening.
His intellectual brilliance and spiritual depth shaped his vision for a united, self-reliant, and spiritually strong India.
Career at BHU and Nickname “Guruji”
After completing his postgraduate studies, Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar began teaching at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). His deep insight into biology and his thoughtful nature made him a remarkable teacher, admired by both students and peers.
At BHU, his humility, simplicity, and devotion to truth earned him the affectionate title “Guruji” — meaning a respected teacher and spiritual mentor. Students often sought his guidance not just for studies, but for life lessons filled with discipline, purpose, and patriotism.
Although deeply immersed in academics, Guruji felt a stronger pull toward serving the nation’s spiritual and cultural revival — a journey that would later shape his lifelong mission in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Career at BHU and Nickname “Guruji”
After completing his tenure at Banaras Hindu University, Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar met Dr. K. B. Hedgewar, the founder of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Deeply inspired by his vision of a united India, Golwalkar joined the RSS in 1931.
His dedication and discipline soon made him a respected guide and thinker. By the late 1930s, he was actively training volunteers and shaping the organization’s ideology.
His humble nature, intellect, and leadership earned him the affectionate title “Guruji”, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of service and spiritual leadership.
Becoming Sarsanghchalak (1940)
In 1940, following the passing of Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar — lovingly called Guruji — was appointed as the second Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
At just 34 years of age, Guruji’s visionary leadership strengthened the RSS through discipline, spiritual unity, and dedication to nation-building, laying the foundation for its vast organizational growth across India.
Final Years (late 1960s — 1973)
In the late 1960s and early 1970s Madhav S. Golwalkar’s public appearances reduced as his health declined. Despite this, he remained an intellectual and organizational reference for those who followed his ideas — continuing correspondence, issuing guidance within the organization, and influencing internal direction until his final months.
Late 1960s
Progressive reduction in long travels and large public functions as age and health limited participation.
Early 1970s
Maintained correspondence and provided counsel; his writings continued to be circulated among followers and institutions connected to his work.
June 5, 1973
Passed away in Nagpur. His death was followed by organized remembrances and reflections on his life and influence.
Personal • Family
Family & Personal Values
Emphasizing consistency and duty, these personal values shaped private decisions, family interactions, and everyday conduct. The following panel summarises the guiding principles, family role, and practical habits that characterized private life.
Duty & Responsibility
Family obligations were treated as foundational — moral and social duties were prioritized, and private conduct modeled public expectations.
Discipline & Routine
Daily habits emphasized modest living, scheduled study and reflection, and limited personal indulgence to focus on service and work.
Cultural Education
Family acted as the first school for cultural practices — language, scriptural reading, and traditional customs were encouraged at home.
Service & Mentorship
Encouraged younger family members to offer service and to cultivate leadership through responsibility rather than status.