Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an emotional tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri on their birth anniversaries, vowing to carry forward their timeless ideals to shape a developed and self-reliant India. In a stirring message shared on X, Modi celebrated Gandhi’s transformative legacy, emphasizing how his principles of truth, non-violence, and simplicity reshaped history and inspired global movements for justice.

“Gandhi Jayanti is a moment to honor Bapu’s extraordinary life. His courage and humility turned simplicity into a force for monumental change,” Modi wrote. He highlighted Gandhi’s belief in service and compassion as powerful tools for empowering communities and fostering unity. Born in Gujarat in 1869, Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (truth and resistance) galvanized India’s freedom struggle, earning him reverence as the nation’s moral compass.

Modi also paid glowing tributes to India’s second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, born in Uttar Pradesh in 1904. Lauding Shastri’s integrity and leadership, Modi called him an “exemplary statesman” whose humility and decisive actions strengthened India during challenging times. Shastri’s iconic slogan, ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ (Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer), continues to resonate, inspiring patriotism and resilience. His leadership during the 1965 India-Pakistan war and his commitment to simplicity earned him enduring respect.

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The Prime Minister urged citizens to embrace Swadeshi—the promotion of Indian-made products—as a fitting tribute to both leaders. “Supporting Swadeshi is the cornerstone of a self-reliant, prosperous India,” Modi said, linking the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) to their legacies. He emphasized that buying local products strengthens the economy and honors the values of Gandhi and Shastri, who championed self-sufficiency.

Modi’s tributes come at a time when India is pushing for economic independence and global influence. By invoking the legacies of Gandhi and Shastri, he aims to inspire a new generation to uphold their values of unity, integrity, and service in building a stronger nation.

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