Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the Pongal festival in New Delhi by joining a vibrant celebration hosted at the residence of Union Minister L Murugan. The gathering brought together members of the Tamil community, senior government officials, and well-known personalities from the cultural and film fraternity. During the event, the prime minister described Pongal as more than a regional harvest festival, calling it a global celebration that reflects the values of one of the world’s oldest living civilizations.
In his address, Modi underlined that Pongal is deeply connected to agriculture and honours the dedication of farmers whose labour sustains society. He said the festival symbolises gratitude not only toward human effort but also toward the land, the Sun, and nature as a whole. According to him, the spirit of Pongal teaches that appreciation should be woven into everyday life rather than expressed only through words.
The prime minister noted that Tamilians across the world celebrate Pongal with pride and enthusiasm, turning it into a shared cultural moment beyond national boundaries. He highlighted that Tamil culture carries centuries of accumulated wisdom, drawing lessons from the past while guiding future generations. This continuity, he said, strengthens India’s progress by keeping cultural roots firmly intact.
Modi also stressed that the festival promotes balance between nature, family, and society. He linked these values to national initiatives that encourage responsible use of resources, environmental care, and sustainable living. Protecting soil quality, conserving water, and thinking about future generations, he added, are principles that align closely with the message of Pongal.
Earlier, in a written message shared in both Tamil and English, the prime minister extended his greetings to citizens, describing Pongal as a celebration of the bond between human effort and natural rhythms. He said the festival brings families together, strengthens intergenerational ties, and reinforces a sense of unity and shared purpose.
The event was attended by senior leaders, including the Vice President and Union Ministers, along with actors and musicians associated with the Tamil film industry. Members of the cast of the film Parasakthi also took part in the celebrations. Speaking later, some of the attendees said the Pongal gathering in the national capital reflected the country’s cultural unity and respect for regional traditions.
The prime minister’s presence at the celebration was seen as a meaningful outreach to the Tamil community, particularly at a time when cultural connection and inclusivity remain central to national discourse.
