Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged Indians to make the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’ memorable by embodying its spirit for future generations. In his monthly radio address, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi encouraged citizens to participate in nationwide programs commemorating the song penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896.
The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of Vande Mataram as a vibrant reflection of India’s culture and spirit. Modi highlighted various citizen-led initiatives, such as efforts to revive mangroves in Gujarat and establish Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh. He also mentioned the restoration of lakes in Bengaluru as examples of grassroots activism.
During his 30-minute address, Modi praised the contributions of paramilitary forces, particularly the BSF and CRPF, for incorporating Indian dog breeds like Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds into their units. He celebrated a Mudhol Hound’s recent victory at an international competition, surpassing various foreign breeds.
“Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives,” the Prime Minister stated.
Modi announced that some of these Indian breeds will participate in a parade at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, commemorating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary on October 31.
He expressed admiration for farmers in Koraput, Odisha, who are cultivating coffee with remarkable enthusiasm, positively transforming the lives of local women. Modi praised the global admiration for Indian coffee varieties from regions such as Chikmagalur and Coorg.
“Indian coffee is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” he highlighted.
The Prime Minister noted the revitalization of Sanskrit through social media, citing youngsters like Yash Salunke, who teaches the language through entertaining online reels. This creative blend of tradition and modernity invigorates cultural heritage.
Extending his warm wishes for Chhath Puja, Modi described the festival as emblematic of devotion and tradition, embodying India’s social unity.
“The Mahaparva of Chhath reflects the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he emphasized, encouraging participation.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, Modi expressed pride in the campaign, especially in areas previously afflicted by Maoist conflict. He stated that this time, lamps of joy illuminated regions that have long suffered beneath the shadow of violence.
“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in areas that had long remained under the shadow of Maoist violence,” he remarked.
During his address, Modi honored tribal hero Komaram Bheem for his bravery against the Nizam of Hyderabad, citing him as a beacon of resistance. He also paid tribute to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose birth anniversary, Janajateeya Gaurav Diwas, will be observed on November 15.
“Like Birsa Munda and Komaram Bheem, there are many other great luminaries in our tribal communities. I urge everyone to read about them and draw inspiration,” the Prime Minister concluded.
