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Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Pongal celebrations in New Delhi, highlighting Tamil culture as a global heritage and stressing unity, gratitude to nature, and the vital role of farmers in nation-building and sustainable development.
Pongal Celebrations at Minister’s Residence
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took part in Pongal celebrations at the residence of Union Minister of State L. Murugan in New Delhi.
Marking the auspicious festival, the Prime Minister offered prayers and fed cows, symbolising gratitude to nature and respect for tradition. He described Pongal as a festival that strengthens the spirit of national unity and reinforces the idea of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
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Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasised that Tamil culture is not confined to India alone. He described it as a shared heritage of all humanity, highlighting its timeless values and global influence.
He noted that Pongal is now celebrated worldwide by the Tamil community and by those who admire Tamil culture, calling it a privilege to celebrate the festival alongside them.
The Prime Minister explained that Pongal represents gratitude toward the earth, the sun, and the farmers who sustain life through their hard work.
He described the festival as a pleasant experience that reminds people of the deep bond between humans and nature. He also extended festive greetings to people across India and to Indians living abroad who are celebrating various regional festivals.
Reflecting on his personal experiences over the past year, PM Modi spoke about visiting the 1,000-year-old Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamil Nadu and participating in the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi.
He said these moments made him feel the powerful energy of cultural unity. He also recalled witnessing the greatness of Tamil history during the inauguration of the Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram.
PM Modi highlighted that in Tamil culture, farmers are regarded as the foundation of life, a belief also reflected in the ancient Tamil text Tirukkural.
He praised farmers as strong partners in nation-building and said their efforts significantly support the vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.” He reaffirmed the central government’s commitment to empowering farmers and strengthening agriculture.
The Prime Minister stressed that Pongal inspires people to turn gratitude toward nature into a way of life. He urged citizens to preserve soil fertility, conserve water, and use natural resources responsibly for future generations.
He pointed out that initiatives such as Mission Life, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, Amrit Sarovar, and Per Drop, More Crop are aligned with this vision and aim to make agriculture more sustainable.
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PM Modi spoke about the growing role of sustainable farming, natural agriculture, agri-tech, and value addition. He praised Tamil youth who have left high-profile careers to take up farming and encouraged them to expand their efforts.
He concluded by saying that India is drawing strength from its cultural roots while confidently moving toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
