Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Sunday, emphasizing the importance of commemorating the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’. He urged citizens to carry its values forward, enhancing India’s rich cultural legacy.
Speaking in his monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi announced an array of programmes to celebrate this milestone, stressing the song’s significance. ‘Vande Mataram’, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first performed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896, symbolizes the spirit of India.
Throughout his address, Modi praised numerous citizen-driven initiatives across the country. He highlighted efforts like the revival of mangroves in Gujarat, the establishment of innovative Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh, and the ongoing lake restoration projects in Bengaluru.
In a noteworthy mention, the Prime Minister commended India’s paramilitary forces for incorporating indigenous dog breeds into their ranks. These breeds, including Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds, showcased remarkable contributions, particularly during operations in Maoist-affected areas.
Modi shared an impressive anecdote about a Mudhol Hound that excelled in international competitions, remarking, “Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives.” This emphasizes the value of local dog 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 said.
He also mentioned that some of these breeds will proudly participate in the upcoming parade at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary on October 31.
In addition to honoring our dog breeds, Modi acknowledged the transformative work of farmers in Koraput, Odisha, particularly women cultivating coffee. Their hard work is enhancing local livelihoods and contributing to India’s agricultural diversity.
“Indian coffee — from Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hassan, Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Malabar — is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” he added.
In his remarks, the Prime Minister noted how modern social media revitalizes Sanskrit. He cited Yash Salunke, a young creator who inspires others by teaching Sanskrit through engaging reels. This highlights the cultural renaissance driven by digital tools.
As the festival of Chhath Puja approaches, Modi extended his greetings, describing it as a celebration of devotion and culture that promotes India’s social unity. The festival symbolizes a strong bond between nature and community.
“The Mahaparva of Chhath reflects the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he said.
Referring to Operation Sindoor, Modi expressed national pride in initiatives across regions once plagued by violence. He spoke about how festivities lit up even those areas that had lived in fear.
“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in areas that had long remained under the shadow of Maoist violence,” he remarked.
Modi took a moment to honor tribal figures like Komaram Bheem, who fought oppression, calling him a symbol of resistance. He also acknowledged Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose birth anniversary on November 15 will be celebrated in India.
“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,” he said.
