PM Modi lauds Odisha’s tribal women, ‘kirtan’ group in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded two inspiring initiatives from Odisha that beautifully blend tradition with social transformation during the 124th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday.

Highlighting a remarkable example of women-led empowerment, the Prime Minister spoke about more than 650 tribal women from Mayurbhanj district who revived the traditional Santhali saree. Once fading from memory, the saree is now back in the spotlight. It has been possible due to the efforts of these women, who are not only preserving cultural heritage but also 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.

Kirtan To Aware About Forest Fires

In a unique example of environmental awareness through culture, PM Modi also appreciated the efforts of Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali, a devotional group in Keonjhar district. Led by Pramila Pradhan, the group is raising awareness about forest fires through modified kirtans and bhajans.

“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.