Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Hails Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra In Puri As Wonder In Itself

Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday mentioned about Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra in the 102^nd episode of his radio programme ‘Maan Ki Baat’ and hailed the event as a wonder in itself.

Extending his best wishes to the people for the forthcoming Rath Yatra to be held from June 20 in Odisha’s Puri, the Prime Minister said the event is unique.

“My dear countrymen, the day after tomorrow i.e. the 20th of  June is the day of the historical Rath Yatra. Rath Yatra bears a unique identity through out the world. Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra is taken out with great fanfare in different states of the country,” said Modi.

“The Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha is a wonder in itself. When I was in Gujarat, I used to get the opportunity to attend the great Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad,” he said.

The way people from all over the country, every society, every class turn up in these Rath Yatras is exemplary in itself. Along with inner faith, it is also a reflection of the spirit of Ek Bharat- Shreshtha Bharat. “My best wishes to all of you on this auspicious occasion. I pray that Lord Jagannath blesses all countrymen with good health, happiness and prosperity,” the Prime Minister said.

Taking a cue from India’s culture and tradition, Modi went on to mention the festivals and programmes organised in several Raj Bhawans in the Country.

“The Raj Bhavans in our country are now being identified by their social and developmental works. They are gradually getting the flag bearers of India’s TB-free mission and organic farming.

“The Raj Bhavans in Gujarat, Telangana, Goa, Maharashtra, and Sikkim have observed the foundation days of their respective States in such a manner that it has inspired many including me. This is a great initiative which again adds to the ‘Ek Bharat Shashakt Bharat’ idea,” the PM added.

Noting that the International Year of Yoga is set to be observed on June 21, the Prime Minister urged all to adopt yoga in life, make it a part of daily routine. “If you are still not connected with yoga, then the 21st of June is a great opportunity for this resolve. There is no need for many frills in yoga anyway. See, when you join yoga, what a big change will come in your life,” Modi added.