Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ address, extended warm greetings to citizens as India entered a month brimming with diverse festivals. The PM stressed the ethos of ‘unity in diversity’ that defines the nation.
“These festivals happen at different parts of the country, but these show how unity is woven in the diversity of India, we must keep strengthening this feeling of unity," the PM said in his address.
He noted that the occasion marked the beginning of Chaitra Navratri and Vikram Samvat, the Indian New Year.
Reading out letters from citizens across states, he talked about the greetings received in multiple languages for Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Hindu New Year, and other regional festivals.
“You must have understood that these messages are in different languages, but do you know the reason for it? That is what I want to talk to you about. Today and in the next few days, the new year is starting in different states across the country, so people have sent me wishes in different languages,” he said.
Also read: Leaders greet nation on Navratri, Hindu New Year celeb
The Prime Minister noted that Ugadi was being celebrated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, while Maharashtra observed Gudi Padwa.
He also mentioned the upcoming festivities of Baisakhi Bihu in Assam, Poila Baisakh in Bengal, and Navreh in Jammu and Kashmir.
The month, he said, would witness grand celebrations from April 13 to 15, culminating in Eid. “This whole month is filled with festivals,” he remarked.
"Students to make productive use of summer"
PM Modi also reflected on the completion of school examinations and the onset of summer vacations. Recounting childhood memories of summer holidays filled with play, learning, and constructive activities, he encouraged students to utilise the time to cultivate new hobbies and skills.
“I remember my childhood days when my friends and I used to indulge in some mischief or the other, but at the same time, we used to do something constructive and also learn. The days in summer are long, children have a lot to do, this is the time to adopt a new hobby and hone your skills,” he said.
Pointing to the myriad opportunities available for learning, he cited science, technology, drama, and arts programmes being organised by institutions across the country.
He urged children to explore technology camps, theatre workshops, and voluntary activities.
“Children don’t have any dearth of platforms where they can learn. Some organisation might be having a technology camp where children can learn about making apps as well as open-source software. Speech and drama schools can be useful for children too. Apart from this, you will also have many places during these holidays to join volunteer activity,” he said.
Encouraging students to share their experiences using the hashtag #MyHolidays, he added, “Summer days are long and children have a lot to do during the time. This is the time to inculcate a new hobby as well as hone your skills. You also have the opportunity to join volunteer activities and service endeavours during these holidays.”
PM Modi also announced the launch of ‘MY-Bharat’, a calendar designed to help students make productive use of their summer vacations.
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