Ministry of Culture Organizes 'Aashirwad Ka Diya' Event on Prime Minister Modi's Birthday

The Ministry of Culture organized the 'Aashirwad Ka Diya' program on September 17, 2026, at Purana Qila in New Delhi to commemorate the birthday of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The event was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who lit the lamp as part of the 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan'.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat stated that 'Aashirwad Ka Diya' is not merely a lamp, but a symbol of the power of people's blessings, service, gratitude, and the resolve for a developed India. Highlighting the significance of the lamp in Indian culture, he noted that it conveys a message of spreading light in the lives of others and paving the way for public welfare.

Expressing respect for Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Shri Shekhawat remarked that the Prime Minister's entire public life has been dedicated to the national interest and public service. He described the Prime Minister as a dedicated worker, seeker, ascetic, and organizer who views public office as a responsibility and a medium for service rather than a matter of prestige. The Union Minister characterized the Prime Minister's working style as result-oriented, stating that the true measure of good governance is the reach of schemes to the last person and their actual impact on society.

Shri Shekhawat mentioned that since 2014, India has embarked on a new journey of development and good governance. He stated that, according to the Prime Minister's vision, 'heritage and development' are complementary to each other, and the Ministry of Culture is working with the resolve of 'Development as well as Heritage.' He added that the conservation and promotion of classical, folk, and traditional cultural traditions are priorities for the ministry, as only a society inspired by its heritage can move forward with pride toward the goal of a developed India.

Additionally, referring to the BRICS Summit, the Union Minister stated that India's growing role on a global level and the world's trust reflect the country's decisive leadership.

During the program, artists and students from the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Kathak Kendra, National School of Drama, Lalit Kala Akademi, and Regional Cultural Centres delivered performances based on Indian classical and cultural traditions. At the conclusion of the event, 'Aashirwad Ka Diya' was lit collectively, and the resolve for service, culture, nation-building, and a developed India by 2047 in the Amrit Kaal was reaffirmed.