Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at an event commemorating the 150th anniversary of Srila Prabhupada Ji at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital on Thursday, emphasized India’s transformative journey during the “Amrit Kaal,” a 25-year period culminating in the nation’s centenary of independence in 2047.
Expressing optimism, PM Modi highlighted the sense of patriotism among millions of Indians entering this era. “Today, crores of countrymen have entered Amrit Kaal with the energy of patriotism. In this Amrit Kaal, we have resolved to make our India developed. We are moving forward considering the nation as God and taking the vision of the country from God,” PM Modi said.
PM Modi also noted the recent fulfillment of the centuries-old dream of a grand Ram temple.
“We are celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Prabhupada Goswami ji at a time when, just a few days ago, the hundreds of years old dream of a grand Ram temple has been fulfilled. The joy and enthusiasm visible on your faces today, I am sure, also includes the happiness of Ram Lalla’s presence,” he said.
Furthermore, PM Modi acknowledged the contributions of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a revered 15th-century saint, for making spirituality accessible to the masses. He emphasized the importance of celebrating Lord Krishna’s pastimes in daily life, as demonstrated by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.
Reflecting on Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s teachings, PM Modi said, “Chaitanya Mahaprabhu showed us how to find happiness by celebrating Lord Krishna’s pastimes in our lives. Many seekers today are experiencing the pinnacle of spirituality through Sankirtan Bhajan, song, and dance.”
PM Modi also drew parallels between the gathering at Bharat Mandapam and the recent G20 Summit, portraying it as a glimpse of the new India. “This is the picture of the new Bharat, where there is a confluence of ‘Vikas’ and ‘Virasat’,” he added.