PM Modi highlights Chhath Puja, Vande Mataram 150th anniversary, and citizen-led Initiatives in Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 127th Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday, October 26, extended Chhath Puja greetings and highlighted India’s cultural and social achievements, PTI reported. He described Chhath as a festival that brings together devotion, tradition and social unity. Urging participation from India and abroad, Modi said, “Every section of the society comes together on Chhath Ghats.”

Operation Sindoor, eradication of Naxalism added color to the festivals

Modi credited successes like Operation Sindoor and steps taken to end the Maoist menace for making this festive season more vibrant. “Lamps of happiness were lit even in the affected areas before the Maoist terror,” he said, highlighting the public’s desire for complete eradication of the problem.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to tribal heroes including Komaram Bheem and Lord Birsa Munda, whose birth anniversary will be observed as Tribal Pride Day on November 15. He encouraged citizens to learn about other influential tribal veterans.

Celebrating cultural heritage and civic initiatives

Highlighting India’s cultural pride, Modi celebrated the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram and urged citizens to carry forward its values. Nationwide events will celebrate this milestone.

He also highlighted citizen-led initiatives ranging from mangrove revival in Gujarat and garbage cafes in Chhattisgarh to lake restoration in Bengaluru. Modi praised the paramilitary forces for introducing Indian dog breeds like Mudhol and Rampur Hounds, mentioning their role in detecting explosives and excelling in competitions.

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In the field of agriculture, Modi praised coffee cultivation in Koraput, Odisha, which has transformed local livelihoods and increased global recognition of Indian coffee in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Finally, Modi highlighted efforts to revive Sanskrit among the youth through social media, citing content creator and cricketer brother Yash Salunkhe, whose reels combining cricket and Sanskrit have gained widespread popularity.

Through reflection on festivals, tribal heroes, cultural milestones and civic initiatives, Modi emphasized India’s resilience, unity and rich heritage.