19 March,2026 11:30 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
PM Narendra Modi. File Pic
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday sent heartfelt letters to citizens across India, extending his greetings on the festive occasions of Ugadi, Chaitra Navratri, and Gudi Padwa. In his letters, he highlighted the cultural and spiritual significance of these festivals and encouraged people to embrace life with courage, gratitude, and optimism.
In letters addressed to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Goa, the Prime Minister extended his best wishes on Ugadi, marking the New Year in several southern states. He emphasized that the arrival of spring brings "new energy and possibilities" and noted the significance of traditional culinary practices during the festival.
PM Modi highlighted the preparation of "bitter-sweet" dishes during Ugadi, which, he explained, convey the deeper meaning of life teaching people to face challenges with courage and welcome success with gratitude. He also acknowledged the efforts of farmers gearing up for the new agricultural season.
"On the sacred and auspicious occasion of Ugadi, I wish you and your family a happy New Year. The fragrance of newly blooming flowers and the arrival of seasonal fruits signal a spirit of new energy and possibilities. Ugadi reminds us to embrace life in all its flavours. May the New Year bring good health, happiness, and success in all your endeavours," he wrote.
PM Modi also sent greetings to the people of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi for Chaitra Navratri and the beginning of Yugabda 5128 and Vikram Samvat 2083.
He highlighted the tradition of restraint and devotion during the nine-day festival and the worship of Maa Shakti in her nine forms, noting that the festival reflects India's ethos of "Unity in Diversity." The Prime Minister described Navratri as a period of self-discipline, sacrifice, and spiritual reflection.
"Chaitra Navratri provides an opportunity for devotion and self-control. Worshipping the nine diverse forms of Maa Shakti reflects the Upanishadic philosophy that enables us to perceive the Divine in multiple forms. This vision establishes India's cultural ethos and strengthens our unity," PM Modi wrote.
He also acknowledged the historical and scientific significance of the traditional calendar, which guides the celebration of these festivals.
For Maharashtra and Goa, PM Modi sent warm greetings on Gudi Padwa, describing the festival as a symbol of victory, prosperity, and hope. He highlighted the importance of holding onto cultural roots amid a rapidly changing world and said that the festival inspires a renewed sense of purpose.
"On the auspicious occasion of Gudi Padwa, I extend my heartfelt greetings to you and your family. The Gudi is raised high as a symbol of victory and optimism. These traditions anchor us in our roots and guide us in life. May this New Year bring happiness, health, and prosperity to all," the Prime Minister wrote.
He also linked the festival to the arrival of spring and India's journey towards progress and self-reliance, emphasizing the relevance of these cultural values in contemporary life.
(With ANI Inputs)
