Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Pushes UNESCO Tag For Chhath Puja, Urges Khadi On Gandhi Jayanti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 126th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday (September 28), where he touched upon a wide range of issues - from cultural heritage and festivals to tributes for national icons and stories of courage.

During the address, the Prime Minister paid homage to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. Modi recalled a powerful letter written by Bhagat Singh to the British before his execution, in which he demanded to be treated as a prisoner of war and shot rather than hanged. "Amar Shaheed Bhagat Singh is an inspiration for every Indian, especially the youth of our country," Modi said.

He also remembered legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar on her birth anniversary, describing her as someone whose music stirred every human emotion. Modi noted that her patriotic songs had a profound impact on generations. "Lata Didi always had a deep connection with India's culture. She sent me Rakhi every year without fail. I once told her that my favourite song was 'Jyoti Kalash Chhalke,' sung by her and composed by Sudhir Phadke ji," he added.

The Prime Minister also introduced listeners to two Indian Navy officers - Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa - who demonstrated grit and determination during the Navika Sagar Parikrama.

On the cultural front, Modi announced that the government is working to include Chhath Puja in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. He described the festival as a sacred occasion dedicated to Surya Dev, where devotees offer prayers to the setting sun. "Chhath is celebrated not just across India but globally, and it is fast becoming a world festival. When it is included in the UNESCO list, people across the globe will witness its grandeur and divinity," he said. Modi recalled that Kolkata's Durga Puja had already been added to the list due to similar efforts, and he emphasized that such recognition gives India's cultural traditions global visibility.

Ahead of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, Modi urged people to buy Khadi and Swadeshi products. He highlighted the renewed enthusiasm for Khadi in the past 11 years, with sales rising significantly. "Say with pride that these are Swadeshi, and share it on social media with #VocalforLocal," he urged. Modi also praised innovative ventures blending tradition with modernity. He cited Yaazh Naturals in Tamil Nadu, where Ashok Jagdishan and Prem Selvaraj left corporate careers to launch eco-friendly products like yoga mats from grass and banana fibre and herbal-dyed clothes, providing employment to 200 families. He also mentioned Ashish Satyavrat Sahu of Jharkhand, who showcased tribal weaving and garments globally through the Johargram brand, taking Jharkhand's heritage to international platforms.

The Prime Minister also dedicated a portion of his address to mark the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Calling its 100-year journey "amazing, unprecedented, and inspiring," he said the organisation had been founded at a time when India was suffering under colonial rule, which had eroded self-respect and self-confidence. Modi praised RSS volunteers for their discipline, spirit of sacrifice, and service to the nation. "Whenever there is a natural disaster in the country, RSS volunteers are the first to reach. The spirit of 'Nation First' guides every action of millions of volunteers. I extend my best wishes to all those dedicating themselves to the noble cause of serving the nation," he said.