PM Modi Delivers Longest-Ever Independence Day Speech at Red Fort; Receives Heartfelt Gift from Audience Member
New Delhi, August 15: On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag at the historic Red Fort for the 12th consecutive time, marking yet another milestone in his tenure. The day began with a solemn tribute at Rajghat, where the Prime Minister paid floral respects to Mahatma Gandhi, reaffirming his commitment to the values of truth, peace, and non-violence.
Wearing a saffron turban, a choice he has made on Independence Day on three previous occasions (2018, 2020, and 2021), PM Modi stood out in his customary vibrant attire. Over the years, his Independence Day turbans have become a much-anticipated tradition, with colours and patterns symbolizing unity, diversity, and pride in Indian culture.
This year’s celebrations will be remembered for the longest Independence Day speech in the history of PM Modi’s leadership, spanning 103 minutes. In his address, he highlighted India’s achievements in various sectors, including economic growth, infrastructure development, defence modernization, digital transformation, renewable energy, and the empowerment of women and youth.
PM Modi expressed pride in India’s ability to emerge stronger after global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical tensions. He spoke of India’s growing influence on the world stage, particularly through initiatives like the G20 Presidency, advancements in space technology, and leadership in sustainable energy projects.
“Our journey from a developing nation to a leading global power is driven by the hard work of 1.4 billion Indians. The world is looking towards India with new hope, and we must seize this moment,” Modi said in his address.
The celebrations included a grand aerial display over Kartavya Path, where MI-16 helicopters showered thousands of flower petals over the gathered audience while carrying the flag of Operation Sindoor. The sight of petals cascading from the sky was met with enthusiastic cheers from the crowd, adding a spectacular visual highlight to the day’s events.
After the ceremonial proceedings at the Red Fort, PM Modi made his way to interact with groups of schoolchildren, who waved miniature national flags and chanted patriotic slogans. He shook hands, exchanged greetings, and encouraged the young students to contribute towards nation-building.
In a particularly touching moment, a member of the audience stepped forward and presented PM Modi with a photo frame containing a picture of him with his late mother, Heeraben Modi. The Prime Minister accepted the gift with a warm smile, visibly moved by the gesture, which resonated with the emotions of many in attendance.
The Independence Day event in Delhi was marked by persistent rain, adding an unusual charm to the proceedings. While many ministers, dignitaries, and citizens were seen holding umbrellas or covering themselves with polythene sheets, their enthusiasm remained undampened. The wet weather did little to deter the patriotic spirit of the attendees, who stood through the showers to witness the historic moment.
Security around the Red Fort was heightened, with thousands of personnel deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Multiple layers of checks were in place, with coordination between the Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, and intelligence agencies.
The cultural segment of the ceremony featured school performances, traditional dances, and patriotic songs celebrating India’s unity in diversity. Displays of India’s military capabilities, including the showcasing of advanced weapon systems and indigenously developed technology, reinforced the nation’s progress towards self-reliance in defence.
As the celebrations concluded, the Prime Minister’s 103-minute speech and heartfelt interactions with citizens stood out as defining moments of the day. His address not only reflected on the nation’s achievements but also set the tone for India’s aspirations in the coming years.
