New Delhi: On Thursday, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat clarified that he has never claimed he would retire at 75, nor suggested that others should.

His remarks aimed to dispel rumors regarding his previous comments about leadership retirement, which many interpreted as a nod towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, along with Bhagwat, will celebrate his 75th birthday next month.

Bhagwat stated, "We are prepared to retire at any point in our lives, but we will continue to serve as long as the Sangh requires us to." This statement was made during the centenary celebrations of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Regarding the topic of retirement at 75, Bhagwat referenced the late RSS leader Moropant Pingle, sharing a humorous anecdote from a past event in Nagpur.

He recounted how Pingle, upon receiving a shawl for his 70th birthday, humorously remarked that such a gesture often signifies a transition to a more passive role, saying, 'You might think you have honored me, but I know this shawl means I can sit back and observe what unfolds.' Pingle was honored for reaching the age of 75.

Bhagwat reiterated, "I never stated that I would retire or that anyone else should retire." He emphasized that within the Sangh, members are assigned roles regardless of their personal preferences.