Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised two inspiring initiatives from Odisha during the 124th edition of his monthly radio program Mann Ki Baat. He highlighted the remarkable example of women-led empowerment in Mayurbhanj district, where over 650 tribal women revived the traditional Santhali saree. Once fading from memory, the saree is now back in the spotlight, thanks to the efforts of these women who are preserving cultural heritage and becoming self-reliant.
“These women are not just making cloth, they are carving their own identity,” PM Modi said, applauding how the revival of the Santhali saree has enabled them to earn thousands of rupees every month.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded the Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali, a devotional group from Keonjhar district, for spreading environmental awareness through a unique blend of culture and music. Led by Pramila Pradhan, the group is using modified kirtans and bhajans to raise awareness about forest fires, showcasing a creative approach to promoting eco-consciousness.
“The most beautiful glimpse of India’s diversity is found in our folk songs and traditions, and our bhajans and kirtans are a part of this. But have you ever heard that people are made aware of forest fires through kirtans? You may not believe it, but amazing work is happening in Keonjhar district of Odisha. Here, there is a group named Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali,” PM Modi said.
“Along with devotion, today, this group is also chanting the mantra of environmental protection. The inspiration behind this initiative is Pramila Pradhan ji. To protect the forest and the environment, she has added new lyrics and new messages to traditional songs. Her troupe went across rom village to village. Through songs, people were made to understand how much damage forest fires cause. This example reminds us that our folk traditions are not something of the past; they still have the power to give direction to society,” PM Modi stated.
