PM Modi Celebrates Diwali With Indian Navy Aboard INS Vikrant, Calls Visit Memorable

Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his longstanding tradition of marking Diwali with India's armed forces on October 20, 2025, by visiting the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant stationed off the coasts of Goa and Karwar. The premier's unannounced trip to the indigenous warship, India's largest naval vessel, underscored his commitment to honouring the sacrifices of military personnel who often spend festivals away from their families. Commissioned in 2022, INS Vikrant symbolises the nation's growing maritime prowess and self-reliance in defence manufacturing, displacing British-era carriers like INS Viraat.

Amid the serene Arabian Sea backdrop, Modi's presence aboard the 45,000-tonne behemoth not only boosted troop morale but also highlighted the strategic importance of the Indian Navy in safeguarding vital sea lanes, especially as regional tensions simmer in the Indo-Pacific. This annual ritual, which began during Modi's first term in 2014 with jawans in Siachen Glacier, has evolved into a poignant symbol of national gratitude, blending cultural festivity with messages of unity and resilience.

Upon boarding the Vikrant, Modi was greeted by a contingent of enthusiastic sailors who had prepared a festive setup complete with traditional lamps and sweets, transforming the steel decks into a floating celebration of lights. The prime minister, dressed in a casual kurta, distributed gifts and shared moments of camaraderie, posing for photographs and exchanging Diwali greetings in the local Konkani dialect to connect with the diverse crew.

In a heartfelt address broadcast live from the carrier's flight deck, Modi extended warm wishes to the entire nation, emphasising the festival's themes of victory over darkness and renewal. "Diwali is not just about lighting lamps outside; it's about igniting the lamp within," he remarked, drawing parallels to the navy's unyielding vigilance. The event, captured in viral clips on his official YouTube channel, featured Modi lighting a ceremonial diya against the golden hues of the setting sun, evoking a sense of poetic harmony between human endeavour and nature's vastness. Such gestures, experts note, serve to humanise leadership while reinforcing the armed forces' role in national security narratives.

Describing the experience as profoundly memorable, Modi reflected on the surreal beauty of his surroundings during his speech to the assembled personnel. "Today, on one side I have infinite horizons and infinite sky, and on the other side I have this giant, INS Vikrant, embodying infinite powers," he said, his voice carrying over the ocean breeze. "The glow of the sun's rays on the ocean's waters is like the Diwali lamps lit by brave soldiers." These words resonated deeply with the troops, many of whom hailed from coastal states like Goa and Karnataka, where naval service is a point of local pride. Modi's visit also touched on broader policy themes, subtly nodding to initiatives like 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India), which propelled Vikrant's construction at Cochin Shipyard.

By choosing the navy this year—following army and air force celebrations in previous Diwalis—the prime minister signalled a balanced recognition across services, amid ongoing efforts to modernise the fleet with indigenous submarines and frigates. The address, interspersed with anecdotes from his own modest upbringing, fostered an atmosphere of shared purpose, reminding personnel that their duties illuminate the path for 1.4 billion Indians.

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As fireworks lit the evening sky and the crew partook in a communal feast, Modi's Diwali aboard INS Vikrant encapsulated the festival's spirit of joy and solidarity. The event drew widespread acclaim on social media, with hashtags like #DiwaliWithNavy trending nationwide, amplifying messages of patriotism. For the sailors, far from home hearths, it was a rare beacon of warmth; for the nation, a reminder of the guardians who ensure lights stay on year-round. With Diwali's fervour peaking across India—from bustling Mumbai markets to serene Himalayan villages—this naval rendezvous added a nautical chapter to the celebrations, reinforcing Modi's image as a leader attuned to the grassroots.

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