Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio program Mann Ki Baat celebrated its 100th episode on Sunday, marking a historic milestone in Indian broadcasting. The program, which aims to serve as a voice for millions of Indians, was broadcast live from the United Nations headquarters in New York and featured several prominent guests. External Affairs Minister S Jais-Shankar joined the Indian community in Somerset, New Jersey, to listen to the broadcast, which Modi described as a link between the country and the world.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay hailed Mann Ki Baat as one of the most celebrated radio broadcasts, with millions of listeners across more than 50 languages and dialects. Azoulay also appeared on the 100th episode, thanking Modi for the opportunity to participate in the program and speaking about the importance of education.
During the broadcast, Modi talked about how Mann Ki Baat filled his “emptiness” after coming to Delhi in 2014. He described it as expressing the feelings of crores (tens of millions) of Indians, which has ensured he is never cut off from the people. The program reflects the “Mann ki baat” or the point of view of crores of Indians and an expression of their feelings, Modi said.
Modi recalled that the program started on October 3, 2014, on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami and has since become a unique festival of goodness and positivity for fellow citizens. The monthly radio program, which mostly steers clear from politics, has become an essential medium for learning from others. “This program has ensured that I am never cut off from you,” Modi said.
In the 100th episode, Modi also had a telephonic conversation with some people featured earlier on the broadcast for their unique initiatives. He talked about how Mann Ki Baat has been an exercise for him to learn from others and worship the qualities in others, including rivals.
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Union ministers, listened to Modi’s address at different places as the ruling party went all out to make the 100th episode a mega exercise in public connect. The BJP said nearly four lakh venues would be set up for people to listen to the PM’s broadcast.
However, the Congress party swiped at Modi, saying the occasion of the 100th episode was heralded with great fanfare still, It was “maun ki baat (silence)” on critical issues such as China, Adani, increasing economic inequalities, and the protest by wrestlers in New Delhi.
In conclusion, Mann Ki Baat’s 100th episode marked a momentous occasion in Indian broadcasting history, highlighting the importance of connecting with people and promoting positivity and learning. Despite some criticism, the program has proven to promote national unity and exchange ideas effectively.
