New Delhi, Oct 26 (UNI) In the 127th episode of his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today celebrated the resilient spirit of India’s people during the festive season, spotlighting how lamps of joy flickered even in areas once darkened by Maoist terror. Speaking directly to the nation, Modi expressed hope as these regions witness the gradual replacement of fear with peace and progress.
“This time, the festive lamps of joy shone brightly even in places that were once shrouded in the darkness of Maoist terror,” Modi said. “The people living there have expressed a strong desire for the complete eradication of this menace. Their hope is now rekindled,” he added.
Modi also highlighted the enthusiastic response to the government’s GST Bachat Utsav, a festival of savings that coincides with the festive season. “During this festival season, something heartening has been observed: a significant rise in the purchase of indigenous products across markets,” he noted. “Many people have shared messages with me, proudly listing the locally made goods they have chosen to buy this time.”
The Prime Minister recalled his earlier appeal urging citizens to reduce edible oil consumption by 10 percent, a call that has received a positive and encouraging response. “Friends, in my earlier letter, I had urged everyone to reduce the consumption of edible oil by 10 percent — a call that has been met with an encouraging and positive response from the people,” he added. Turning to cultural festivities, Modi paid tribute to the ongoing celebrations of Diwali and Chhath Puja, which unite millions across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Purvanchal.
“Thekua is being prepared, ghats are adorned, and markets bustle with life. Everywhere, devotion, affection, and tradition converge,” he said, lauding the dedication of women observing the Chhath Vrat and calling the festival a beautiful symbol of social harmony. The Prime Minister also shared inspiring stories of grassroots initiatives, such as Ambikapur’s innovative “Garbage Cafes” exchanging meals for plastic waste and Bengaluru’s campaign to rejuvenate lakes, which has successfully engaged corporates and communities alike. He further praised Gujarat’s mangrove plantation efforts that have revitalized marine biodiversity and helped local fish farmers.
In a heartfelt moment, Modi commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, urging citizens to participate in events and share their tributes using hashtag VandeMataram150. He also applauded young social media content creators who are breathing new life into Sanskrit, blending tradition with modernity and inspiring a renewed interest in the ancient language.
Paying homage to tribal heroes Komaram Bheem and Bhagwan Birsa Munda, Modi emphasized their enduring legacy in the fight for justice and urged the youth to draw inspiration from their spirit of resistance and unity. Closing on an optimistic and motivational note, Modi acknowledged the flood of messages from listeners celebrating innovation and community service across India’s towns and villages. “We will meet again next month with fresh topics,” he said, signing off with a warm “Namaste” and reaffirming the power of culture, unity, and youthful energy in shaping India’s promising future.
