Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on the 12th anniversary of his monthly radio broadcast ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, October 25, 2026, describing the initiative as a “journey of inspiration” and comparing it to a spiritual pilgrimage that highlights the extraordinary contributions of ordinary citizens.
A 12-Year Uninterrupted Journey
Addressing the nation during the 139th episode of the monthly programme, Prime Minister Modi recalled the inception of the broadcast on October 3, 2014, which coincided with the festival of Vijayadashami across All India Radio (Akashvani) and Doordarshan networks.
”Twelve years ago, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, we began ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Since then, our journey has continued uninterrupted. All of you have been both fellow travellers and inspiration of this journey,” PM Modi stated.
Honouring Unsung Heroes and Family Connection
Comparing the radio address to traditional Indian pilgrimages, the Prime Minister emphasized that the program offers a vital platform to showcase grassroots initiatives, selflessness, and community leadership that often go unnoticed by mainstream media.
”Our country has had a tradition of pilgrimages for centuries. For me, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is not less than a pilgrimage to closely understand the efforts of people of the country and to pay tributes to their contributions. People who live for society and country are themselves like places of pilgrimage,” he said.
He thanked listeners for their decade-plus of “warmth and affection,” sharing that many citizens write to him expressing how the monthly address feels like a intimate conversation among family members.
