Pune: In celebration of Vijayadashami, the foundation day of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), 58 processions were held across Pune on Saturday, October 12.

The processions, organized in various parts of the Pune Metropolitan Area, saw the participation of over 12,000 RSS volunteers dressed in full uniform. These processions were conducted in 55 localities spread across nine zones of the city.

This year's processions were especially significant as the RSS entered its centennial year, adding a deeper meaning to the occasion. The processions started at 7:30 a.m. and were welcomed with great enthusiasm by residents of all social strata, including those from suburbs and slum areas.

Citizens gathered along the procession routes to offer their support and cheer for the volunteers.

A key highlight of the day was the ceremonial tribute paid to the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the SSPMS grounds in Shivajinagar. The tribute was accompanied by the unique band music of the RSS, adding a traditional touch to the ceremony.

Present at the tribute were Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol, MP Medha Kulkarni, Pune City RSS Chief Ravindra Wanzarwadkar, and Kasba area RSS Chief Adv. Prashant Yadav, who all paid floral tributes to the statue.

Before this, a ceremonial conch blowing and the hoisting of the saffron flag were conducted at the Motibagh office by Wanzarwadkar and Yadav. Pune City RSS Secretary Sachin Bhosale was also present at the event.

The processions took various routes through different neighborhoods, including large and small housing societies. For the first time, a ceremonial procession was also held at the Savitribai Phule Pune University campus.

Additionally, in some areas, weapons worship ceremonies were conducted alongside the processions, adding to the cultural significance of the day.