Introduction
The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, shared captivating moments from his Diwali festivities aboard the INS Vikrant alongside members of the Indian Navy. He described the occasion as an extraordinary day, moment, and view, with the expansive ocean on one side and the formidable strength of India’s courageous soldiers on the other. The boundless horizon and sky contrasted with the massive power of the INS Vikrant, symbolizing infinite might. He likened the sunlight glistening on the sea to the lamps lit by the valiant soldiers during Deepavali, creating a sacred chain of lights. The Prime Minister felt honored to spend this Diwali with the brave Navy personnel.
Prime Minister’s Social Media Posts
In a thread of posts on X, Shri Modi expressed:
- “Celebrating Diwali with our brave Navy personnel on board the INS Vikrant.”
- “People love celebrating Diwali with their families. And so do I, which is why every year I meet our army and security personnel who keep our nation safe. Happy to be among our brave naval personnel on the western seaboard off Goa and Karwar on Indian Naval Ships with INS Vikrant as the flagship.”
- “Highlights from INS Vikrant, including the Air Power Demo, a vibrant cultural programme and more…”
- “At the majestic flightdeck of INS Vikrant, with the MiG-29 fighters.”
- “Witnessed an awe-inspiring Air Power Demo on INS Vikrant, showcasing precision and prowess. The take-off and landing of MiG-29 fighters on a short runway, both in daylight and in the dark night, was a breathtaking display of skill, discipline and technological excellence.”
- “Bara Khana is an integral part of the armed forces traditions. At INS Vikrant last evening, took part in the Bara Khana with naval personnel.”
- “INS Vikrant is India’s pride! This is the largest warship constructed indigenously. I recall the programme in Kochi when it was commissioned. And now, today, I had the opportunity to be here to mark Diwali.”
- “Will always cherish the cultural programme on board INS Vikrant last evening. The naval personnel are truly creative and versatile. They penned a song ‘Kasam Sindoor Ki’ which will remain etched in my memory.”
- “From the Air Power Demo at INS Vikrant!”
- “Yoga on INS Vikrant! Good to see brave naval personnel aboard India’s pride, INS Vikrant, take part in a Yoga session. May Yoga continue to unite us and strengthen both our physical and mental well-being.”
Image source: Narendra Modi’s X post (Prime Minister’s Office, PIB Delhi)
Highlights of the Event
The warships involved in the day’s Steam Past included INS Vikrant (the review platform), INS Vikramaditya (visited by the PM ten years ago for the Combined Commanders’ Conference), INS Surat (commissioned earlier this year in Mumbai), INS Mormugao, INS Chennai (part of the 2023 Bastille Day celebrations in France), INS Imphal (involved in this year’s Mauritius National Day celebrations), INS Kolkata, INS Tushil, INS Tabar, INS Teg, INS Betwa, INS Deepak, and INS Aditya.
The Flypast at INS Vikrant featured the Chetak with flag and navy ensign, MH 60 R, Seaking, Kamov 31, Dornier, P8I, and MiG 29K.
Prime Minister’s Reflections in Hindi (Translated)
Just like all of you, I too love celebrating Diwali with my family. That’s why, on this auspicious occasion, I meet the soldiers and security forces personnel dedicated to protecting our nation every year. This time, I had the fortune to be on our flagship INS Vikrant near the western maritime border off Goa and Karwar. This opportunity with our valiant naval personnel has filled me with new energy and enthusiasm.
INS Vikrant is the pride of India! It is the largest warship built with indigenous technology. I remember the ceremony when it was inducted into the navy fleet in Kochi. Today, on the auspicious occasion of Deepavali, I feel proud to be here.
The cultural program on INS Vikrant last evening will be unforgettable. Our naval personnel are not only talented and brave but also very creative. Their song ‘Kasam Sindoor Ki’ will always remain in my memories.
Keyword: Diwali
Meta description: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares inspiring moments from his Diwali celebration aboard INS Vikrant, highlighting India’s naval strength and traditions.