Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid homage to legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar and freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh on their birth anniversaries during the 126th episode of his monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
Addressing the 126th episode of his monthly radio programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted the significance of the day, marking the birth anniversaries of two iconic figures of India — Shaheed Bhagat Singh and legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar.
Paying homage to Bhagat Singh, Prime Minister Modi described him as a “source of inspiration” for generations of Indians, particularly the youth, and said that fearlessness was deeply rooted in his character.
Prime Minister Modi also fondly remembered Lata Mangeshkar, highlighting her profound bond with Indian culture. Prime Minister Modi remarked that anyone who connects with India’s cultural and musical heritage is inevitably moved by her voice. Her songs, Prime Minister Modi said, evoke every human emotion, and her patriotic renditions greatly motivated people. “I offer my heartfelt tribute to Lata Didi,” PM Modi added.
In another announcement, Prime Minister Modi described Chhath Puja as not merely a ritual but a vibrant celebration of ecological harmony, devotion, and community participation, and stated that India is actively working to include it in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Chhath Puja, predominantly observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal, honours the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Devotees offer prayers at riverbanks and ponds while observing rigorous fasts and rituals over four days.
PM Modi also reflected on the 100-year journey of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling it “unprecedented” and “inspiring.” He noted that the organisation has always upheld the spirit of ‘nation first.’
“In the next few days, we will celebrate Vijayadashami, which is special for another reason. This day marks 100 years since the foundation of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. This century-long journey is as amazing as it is inspiring. When the RSS was founded in 1925 on Vijayadashami, the country was still bound by the chains of colonial rule,” PM Modi said.
Mann Ki Baat is a monthly radio programme hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he engages with Indian citizens on topics and issues of national importance.
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