Echoes of Courage and Melody: PM Modi Honors Bhagat Singh and Lata Mangeshkar in Mann Ki Baat

In the 126th episode of his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to two iconic figures of Indian history and culture—freedom fighter Bhagat Singh and legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar—on their birth anniversaries, observed on September 28.

Key tributes and reflections:

1. Bhagat Singh was remembered as a fearless revolutionary whose courage continues to inspire generations. Modi recounted Singh’s letter to the British, demanding to be treated as a prisoner of war and executed by bullet rather than hanging—a testament to his indomitable spirit  
2. The Prime Minister highlighted Bhagat Singh’s empathy and commitment to social justice, noting his sensitivity to the suffering of others and his readiness to help those in need  
3. Lata Mangeshkar was celebrated for her unparalleled contribution to Indian music and culture. Modi emphasized how her songs stirred deep emotions and patriotic fervor across the nation  
4. He recalled her connection with Veer Savarkar and her renditions of his compositions, as well as her personal gesture of sending him a Rakhi every year  
5. Modi also praised the achievements of Indian women, spotlighting two Navy officers who completed a 238-day global circumnavigation, and urged citizens to embrace Swadeshi products during the festive season  
6. Additional themes included the push to list Chhath Puja as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and the upcoming centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh  

Sources: Free Press Journal, PMIndia.gov.in, MSN India, NarendraModi.in