Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 116th episode of Mann Ki Baat, broadcast on November 24, 2024, underscored India's cultural vibrancy and its growing influence across the globe. From commemorating National Cadet Corps (NCC) Day to highlighting yoga's global reach and the international celebration of Indian heritage, the address reflected on India's achievements, values, and soft power.
A Spotlight on NCC and Youth Empowerment
PM Modi began by celebrating NCC Day, marking its significance as one of the largest uniformed youth organizations in the world. He emphasized the NCC’s role in fostering discipline, patriotism, and leadership among India’s youth, applauding their contributions to disaster management, environmental conservation, and national defence training.
He called on young citizens to engage actively in initiatives promoting societal well-being, aligning this with the larger narrative of India’s youth shaping a bright and resilient future.
Indian Culture's Expanding Global Footprint
One of the central themes of this episode was the international appreciation of Indian culture. PM Modi pointed out how various countries are embracing Indian traditions, languages, and arts. For instance, Kuwait’s national radio now broadcasts a program in Hindi, celebrating Indian culture, cinema, and art a testimony to the widespread admiration for India's heritage.
He also referenced the 300th birth anniversary celebrations of Turkmenistan’s national poet, which included the unveiling of a statue of Rabindranath Tagore. Such recognition not only honors Tagore but also highlights India's literary and philosophical contributions to the world.
Celebrations of Indian Heritage in the Caribbean
In the Caribbean, nations like Suriname and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines organized vibrant celebrations of Indian Arrival Day and Indian Heritage Day, respectively. These events showcased the pride and enthusiasm of the Indian diaspora, emphasizing their deep connection to ancestral traditions while contributing to their adopted homelands.
Yoga: A Global Symbol of Harmony and Health
PM Modi reiterated the global resonance of yoga, especially during the 10th International Day of Yoga earlier this year. From Egypt to Myanmar, yoga events were held at iconic locations such as the banks of the Nile, the Red Sea, and even at the Galle Fort in Sri Lanka. Notably, a Saudi woman led a yoga session for the first time in Saudi Arabia, signaling the universal appeal of this ancient practice.
The Prime Minister encouraged citizens to integrate yoga into their daily lives, calling it a unifying force and a means to promote mental and physical well-being.
Promoting Local to Global: The Case of Araku Coffee
Another highlight of the address was PM Modi’s praise for Araku coffee, produced in Andhra Pradesh’s Alluri Sita Rama Raju district. Known for its exceptional flavor and aroma, Araku coffee has garnered international acclaim, including recognition at the G20 Summit in Delhi. Such successes, Modi noted, exemplify India's ability to take local products to the global stage.
Strengthening Agricultural Exports
The address also celebrated achievements in agricultural exports, citing the recent shipment of snow peas from Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district to London. This milestone reflects India's commitment to integrating rural and regional economies into global trade networks, offering new opportunities for prosperity.
Cultural Preservation and Emotional Recharge
Concluding his speech, PM Modi highlighted the role of culture as an emotional anchor during times of crisis. He reiterated that cultural practices not only preserve India’s identity but also foster resilience, creativity, and global connectivity. As Mann Ki Baat approaches its 10-year milestone, it remains a platform for celebrating these stories of inspiration and unity.
Conclusion
The 116th Mann Ki Baat showcased India's cultural heritage as a cornerstone of its global influence, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement, local innovation, and international collaboration. PM Modi’s message resonated with a vision of a culturally confident and globally connected India, encouraging citizens to take pride in their heritage while contributing to the world stage.
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