Guwahati: Grit & Glory: How India’s Northeast Was Transformed One Heart at a Time, a book authored by acclaimed writer Abhijit Joag, was released on September 26, 2026, at the NEDFi Convention Centre in Guwahati. The book was formally released by Rajiv Kumar Bora, IAS (Retd.), in the presence of senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharaks Haribhau Mirasdar and Ulhas Kulkarni.
The programme was presided over by senior journalist Nava Thakuria and attended by a large number of RSS karyakartas, social workers and representatives of civil society.
Published by New Delhi-based Suruchi Prakashan, the 300-page book is priced at ₹445 and carries a foreword by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat has described the book as an inspiring account of the dedication and determination of young workers of the RSS and Rashtra Sevika Samiti who contributed to social transformation in the Northeast.
The book chronicles the lives and contributions of individuals associated with the Sangh who worked for social transformation across northeastern India, including those who lost their lives in the course of their work. It also examines the region’s history, challenges and social changes, while highlighting the contributions of RSS pracharaks and volunteers associated with various affiliated organisations.
The author has drawn upon inputs from hundreds of RSS volunteers from different parts of the country. The book places particular emphasis on the difficult circumstances in which Sangh workers operated in the Northeast and the challenges they encountered while working in remote and sensitive areas.
Speaking at the launch, Bora recalled the challenges faced by RSS workers during the organisation’s early years in the region. He noted that several RSS pracharaks lost their lives while carrying out their work.
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 various challenges and eventually expanded the organisation’s presence across the region.
Kulkarni spoke about the difficulties faced by Sangh volunteers in parts of northeastern society. He also referred to the RSS’s support for the Assam Agitation and its opposition to what the organisation described as illegal migration from Bangladesh.
In his concluding remarks, Nava Thakuria stressed the importance of credible and responsible media coverage of the RSS and its activities.
The programme began with Pushpanjali offered before a portrait of Bharat Mata by the distinguished guests. The event was anchored by Nabamita Deb, while singer Rita Bhuyan presented a Borgeet. Hirak Sarma delivered the vote of thanks.
The programme concluded with the singing of the full version of ‘Vande Mataram’, India’s national song.
