New Delhi: In a rare and poignant edition of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today paid rich tributes to several iconic figures from India’s musical and cultural world, recalling their enduring legacies and his personal associations with them.
Marking the birth anniversary of Lata Mangeshkar, the Prime Minister began the 128th episode of his monthly radio address by describing the legendary singer’s voice as one that continues to stir the depths of human emotion and remains an indelible part of India’s cultural identity.
“Her songs were not merely compositions; they were expressions of devotion, emotion, and patriotism,” Modi said.
He also recounted his personal bond with the late singer, noting that she used to send him a Rakhi every year.
Recalling his first introduction to her through composer Sudhir Phadke, he expressed admiration for her rendition of "Jyoti Kalash Chhalke". Striking an emotional chord with listeners, he played the song during the broadcast, underscoring its timeless appeal.
He also recalled Mangeshkar’s deep admiration for Veer Savarkar, the RSS ideologue she affectionately called “Tatya”, noting that she had rendered several of his compositions.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Bhupen Hazarika, recalling his recent visit to Assam during the ongoing centenary celebrations of the legendary musician.
He underscored the global reach of Hazarika’s work and praised a recent cultural initiative in Sri Lanka, where local artists translated his iconic song "Manuhe-Manuhar Babe" into Tamil and Sinhala. Audio clips of both versions were played during the broadcast.
Turning to more recent losses in the music world, Modi expressed grief over the passing of Zubeen Garg, describing him as a prominent and beloved figure in Assamese music and culture.
“Zubeen Garg will always remain etched in our memories, and his music will continue to captivate generations to come,” he said, quoting an Assamese tribute: “Ahomor hamoskritir ujjol ratno... janotar hridayot teyo haday jiyay thakibo”
(“Zubeen was the shining gem of Assamese culture... he will live on in the hearts of the people”).
The Prime Minister also paid homage to eminent Kannada writer and philosopher SL Bhyrappa, who passed away recently.
Calling him a thinker deeply rooted in India’s civilisational ethos, Modi urged the youth to engage with his literary contributions, many of which have been translated into other languages.
The Prime Minister concluded his remarks by recognising the contributions of Sauntkh Mandapa, a Paris-based cultural institute that recently completed 50 years of promoting Indian classical dance in Europe.
Founded by Padma Shri awardee Milena Salvini, the institute has played a significant role in popularising Indian performing arts on the global stage.
