TFP Bureau, Raipur, September 28, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 126th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ aired on Sunday, blended history, culture, and contemporary achievements to inspire citizens across the nation. Speaking on the birth anniversaries of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar, the Prime Minister paid glowing tributes to the revolutionary martyr and the legendary singer, calling them guiding lights whose legacies continue to inspire generations.
In Raipur, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai joined citizens at Sindhu Palace, Shankar Nagar, to listen to the broadcast. He described Mann Ki Baat as “a powerful medium that connects millions of Indians, celebrates innovation, and brings forth exemplary contributions from every corner of the country.”
During the broadcast, the Prime Minister recalled Bhagat Singh’s unmatched courage, citing the letter he wrote before his execution in which he demanded to be treated as a prisoner of war. “This indomitable spirit continues to inspire our youth to put national interest above everything,” he said. He also remembered Lata Mangeshkar, whose melodious voice and patriotic songs stirred generations, and shared his personal bond with her, recalling how she sent him a rakhi every year.
The address also celebrated the extraordinary feat of two women officers of the Indian Navy, Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Lieutenant Commander Roopa, who successfully completed the Navika Sagar Parikrama. Over 238 days, they circumnavigated the globe in a sailboat, covering 47,500 kilometers and hoisting the tricolor at Point Nemo—the remotest spot on Earth. The Prime Minister praised their determination, noting that their journey was harder than summiting Mount Everest and rarer than reaching space.
Both officers spoke briefly during the program, recounting their grueling training, the storms they braved in the Southern Ocean, and their moment of pride when they unfurled the national flag at Point Nemo. They credited teamwork and the Navy’s rigorous preparation for their success, while urging India’s young women to dream big and break barriers.
Chief Minister Sai, inspired by their account, said that their achievement reflects the limitless potential of India’s daughters. “The bravery and resolve of Lieutenant Commander Dilna and Roopa are a matter of immense pride for the nation. They prove that with courage and discipline, no goal is beyond reach,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted cultural traditions, noting that the government is working to secure UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status for Chhath Puja, which, like Kolkata’s Durga Puja, has already become a global festival. He emphasized the role of cultural preservation, citing efforts by entrepreneurs who are blending tradition with innovation—from herbal-dyed clothing in Tamil Nadu to tribal weaving initiatives in Jharkhand and Mithila painting enterprises empowering rural women in Bihar.
In his Raipur address following the broadcast, CM Sai echoed the Prime Minister’s call for Atmanirbhar Bharat, stressing the importance of adopting swadeshi products. He pointed out that under GST reforms, citizens have benefitted from reduced tax rates on essential goods, vehicles, farm equipment, and machinery. “When we choose swadeshi, we are not just buying goods. We are carrying home a family’s hope, a craftsman’s labor, and an entrepreneur’s dream,” he said, urging people to make Vocal for Local their festive shopping mantra.
The Prime Minister also underscored the rising popularity of khadi, which has seen record sales in recent years, urging citizens to purchase khadi products on Gandhi Jayanti as a tribute to Bapu’s ideals. CM Sai joined the appeal, saying khadi has become both a symbol of heritage and a modern lifestyle choice.
The episode also touched upon upcoming festivals including Vijayadashami, which this year marks 100 years of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The Prime Minister reflected on the Sangh’s century-long journey of service and sacrifice, attributing its resilience to its core value of putting the nation first. He also remembered Maharishi Valmiki ahead of his Jayanti, emphasizing his role in shaping India’s cultural ethos through the Ramayan.
Further, the Prime Minister paid tributes to eminent cultural figures—singer Zubeen Garg of Assam, philosopher S.L. Bhyrappa of Karnataka, and the contributions of the Paris-based Sauntkh Mandapa Institute in popularizing Indian dance globally. He also praised Sri Lankan artists for translating Bhupen Hazarika’s iconic song Manuhe-Manuhar Baba into Tamil and Sinhala, demonstrating the global resonance of Indian music.
As the festive season approaches, the Prime Minister called upon citizens to combine celebrations with cleanliness drives, reminding them that Swachhata must go beyond individual homes to neighborhoods, markets, and villages. He urged people to make Diwali truly special by pledging to support swadeshi goods, thereby advancing both self-reliance and sustainability.
The Raipur event concluded with CM Sai offering greetings for Navratri and Diwali, reiterating that Mann Ki Baatcontinues to serve as a mirror of India’s cultural pride, people’s achievements, and collective aspirations. The gathering was attended by MLA Purandar Mishra, CGMSC Chairman Deepak Mhaske, Minority Commission Chairman Amarjeet Chhabra, and several other dignitaries and citizens, who joined in listening to the Prime Minister’s monthly broadcast.
