Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Says Traditional Arts Empower Society And Drive Economic Growth

Addressing the nation on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India’s traditional arts are playing a vital role in empowering society and acting as a strong vehicle for economic progress.

Speaking in the 129th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, he shared stories of individuals, especially women, who have preserved cultural traditions while generating employment. According to him, such examples reflect how heritage-based skills can transform local economies.

“Our traditional arts are empowering society and becoming a major vehicle for people’s economic progress. The lace craft of Narasapuram district in Andhra Pradesh is gaining popularity across the country. This lace craft has been in the hands of women for generations. The women of the country have preserved it with great patience and meticulousness,” PM Modi said.

Now, he added, the tradition is being taken forward in a modern way with support from the Andhra Pradesh government and NABARD.

“The Narasapuram Lace has also received the GI Tag. Today, more than 500 products are being made from it, and approximately one lakh women in more than 250 villages are getting employment from it,” he said.

Turning attention to the North-East, PM Modi highlighted the work of Margaret Ramtharsiem from Churachandpur in Manipur.

“The efforts of Margaret Ramtharsiem of Churachandpur, Manipur, are also of a similar kind. She saw Manipur’s traditional products, its handicrafts, and items made from bamboo and wood, with a broad vision. Because of that vision, from a handicraft artist, she became a medium for transforming people’s lives. Today, Margaret’s unit employs over 50 artists, and through her hard work, she has developed a market for her products in several states across the country, including Delhi,” PM Modi said.

Sharing another example, PM Modi spoke about Chokhone Krichena from Manipur’s Senapati district.

PM Modi added, “Krichena expanded this traditional experience to a greater extent. She made floriculture her passion. Today, she connects this work with various markets and empowers local communities in her area. This instance exemplifies the fact that when traditional knowledge is leveraged with a modern vision, it can become a major vehicle for economic progress. If you have similar success stories around you, please share them with me.”

Shifting focus, PM Modi said India’s most beautiful feature is its continuous festive atmosphere across different regions. Beyond major festivals, he noted, numerous local celebrations take place throughout the year, offering unique cultural experiences.

PM Modi said that the festival season is currently underway in the Rann of Kutch.

“This year, the Kutch Ranotsav began on November 23 and will continue until February 20 next year,” he said.

“The diverse folk culture, folk music, dance, and handicrafts of Kutch are on display here. Witnessing the grandeur of the White Rann of Kutch is a delightful experience in itself. At night, when the moonlight spreads over the White Rann, the view is mesmerising. The Rann Utsav’s Tent City is very popular,” PM Modi added.

According to information received by him, over two lakh people have attended the Rannotsav in the past month, including visitors from abroad.

“Whenever you get the opportunity, be sure to participate in such festivals and enjoy India’s diversity,” Prime Minister Modi concluded.

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