New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a vibrant Pongal celebration on Tuesday at the residence of Union Minister Shri L. Murugan. Extending his heartfelt wishes to the nation, Shri Modi reflected on the rich cultural traditions of India, expressing hope that the festive season fosters togetherness, prosperity, and gratitude.
Narendra Modi: "Yesterday, I took part in a very memorable Sankranti and Pongal programme. May this festival strengthen the bonds of togetherness, bring prosperity and inspire us to celebrate our cultural traditions with joy and gratitude."Yesterday, I took part in a very memorable Sankranti and Pongal programme. May this festival strengthen the bonds of togetherness, bring prosperity and inspire us to celebrate our cultural traditions with joy and gratitude. pic.twitter.com/TlMvbbWLN5
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 14, 2025
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted the joyous spirit of Pongal resonating across Tamil Nadu and wished for happiness, contentment, and success in every citizen’s life. Acknowledging the festive series beginning with Lohri, followed by Makar Uttarayan, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu, he conveyed his best wishes to people across the country.
Recalling his interactions during Tamil Puthandu celebrations last year, the Prime Minister expressed delight at seeing familiar faces and thanked Union Minister Shri L. Murugan for hosting the occasion, likening it to celebrating with family and friends.
Highlighting Farmers and Cultural Significance
Quoting the great Tamil saint Thiruvalluvar, Shri Modi underscored the role of educated citizens, honest businesses, and bountiful crops in nation-building. He emphasized the centrality of farmers, or Annadata Kisans, in India’s festivals, particularly during Pongal when fresh harvests are offered to the divine.
The Prime Minister also reflected on the increasing awareness around millets (Shri Anna) and their connection to Tamil traditions. He shared that over three crore farmers engaged in millet cultivation have directly benefited from millet promotion efforts. He expressed happiness at the growing interest among youth in millet-related startups, underscoring the nutritional and economic benefits of this superfood.
Unity in Diversity: The Spirit of Kolam
Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the Tamil tradition of Kolam, intricate designs created with flour during Pongal. He noted the symbolic significance of Kolam, where individual dots, each representing unique values, come together to create a unified masterpiece. Drawing parallels, he remarked that India’s diversity similarly gains strength and beauty when its corners connect emotionally.
Shri Modi emphasized that the festival of Pongal reflects the essence of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. He also lauded initiatives like the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam, which showcase enthusiastic participation by the Tamil community and strengthen cultural ties across regions.
Vision for a Unified, Developed India
The Prime Minister urged citizens to unite in building a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Referring to the Panch Pran he introduced during his Red Fort address, he called for collective resolve in fostering national unity. Concluding his address, Shri Modi invited everyone to rededicate themselves to the mission of strengthening the country’s unity on the auspicious occasion of Pongal.
With this message of harmony and tradition, the celebrations at Shri Murugan’s residence underscored the enduring spirit of India’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
.png)
The opinions posted here do not belong to 🔰www.indiansdaily.com. The author is solely responsible for the opinions.
As per the IT policy of the Central Government, insults against an individual, community, religion or country, defamatory and inflammatory remarks, obscene and vulgar language are punishable offenses. Legal action will be taken for such expressions of opinion.