New Delhi, Sep 28 (UNI) In the 126th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reiterated the importance of Swadeshi and local culture, calling on citizens to promote Indian products and traditions during the upcoming festive season of Diwali and Chhath.
He announced that efforts are underway to include Chhath Puja—a prominent festival from Bihar—in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, saying the festival is no longer just local but now “turning into a global celebration.”
“Chhath Puja honours Surya Dev with offerings to the setting sun. This local tradition is now becoming global,” the Prime Minister said, urging the countrymen to take pride in Indian festivals, art, and handicrafts.
The Prime Minister also paid tributes to several iconic figures from India’s cultural and patriotic history. Marking the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar, the Prime Minister described her as a voice that touched the soul of Indian music lovers.
“Her patriotic songs deeply inspired the nation. She also had a special connection with Indian culture,” he said. Modi recalled that she was inspired by Veer Savarkar, whom she affectionately called Tatya, and had sung many of his compositions.
He also remembered Shaheed Bhagat Singh, calling him a timeless source of inspiration for Indian youth.
Recalling a letter Bhagat Singh wrote before his execution, Modi highlighted his fearless nature: “He had demanded that he be shot as a prisoner of war rather than be hanged. This shows the courage he carried within.”
Remembering Zubeen Garg, the popular Assamese singer who recently died in a tragic accident in Singapore, PM Modi said, “People are mourning the untimely passing of Zubeen Garg, a celebrated singer deeply connected to Assamese culture. His music will continue to captivate generations to come.”
Ahead of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, PM Modi reminded listeners of Mahatma Gandhi’s emphasis on Khadi and Swadeshi.
“After independence, Khadi lost its importance, but in the last 11 years, interest in it has grown significantly. I urge everyone to buy at least one Khadi item this Gandhi Jayanti and proudly share it as Swadeshi,” he said.
He also encouraged people to celebrate upcoming festivals using local products.
“If we commit to buying only what is made in India, we not only support local artisans but also bring home their dreams and dignity,” the PM said. “Make ‘Vocal for Local’ your shopping mantra.”
Highlighting the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) this Vijayadashami, the Prime Minister said the Sangh’s founding in 1925 by Dr. K. B. Hedgewar played a crucial role in restoring national self-respect and cultural confidence.
Quoting former RSS chief Guruji Golwalkar, “Idam Rashtraya, Idam Na Mama”, he said this spirit of selfless service has guided millions of volunteers over the decades.
“Whenever there is a natural disaster, RSS workers are the first to reach. The Sangh’s century-long journey of service is inspiring for every citizen,” he said.
Modi also lauded Sauntkh Mandapa, a Paris-based cultural institution that recently completed 50 years of promoting Indian classical dance abroad. Founded by Padma Shri Milena Salvini, the institute has introduced Indian art to new global audiences.
He also shared how legendary musician Bhupen Hazarika’s iconic song “Manuhe Manuhar Babe” has been translated into Tamil and Sinhala in Sri Lanka, showing the universal message of humanity in his music.
The Prime Minister also spoke with two brave women officers of the Indian Navy Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa, who recently completed a historic global circumnavigation on a sailboat.
Calling their feat “inspiring for the entire nation,” Modi praised their courage and determination.
The duo sailed over 47,000 kilometres across the world’s oceans, braving storms, isolation, and extreme weather conditions.
The officers shared how they managed the 238-day journey completely on their own—navigating, cooking, repairing, and even facing storms with waves as high as three-storey buildings.
They became the first Indians and first Asians to reach Point Nemo, the most remote point on Earth, in a sailboat.
Modi said their achievement is a shining example of Nari Shakti and proof that Indian women are making their mark in every field, from defence to adventure.
The two officers urged young girls to dream big and assured them that with hard work, nothing is impossible.
