Ministry of Culture organises ‘Aashirwad Ka Diya’ programme on the birthday of PM Modi

On the occasion of the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ministry of Culture organised the ‘Aashirwad Ka Diya’ programme at Purana Qila, New Delhi, on 17th September 2026. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the programme by lighting the Aashirwad Ka Diya, organised under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan with the chant of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.

In his address, Union Minister Shri Shekhawat said that the Aashirwad Ka Diya is not just a lamp, but a symbol of the power of people’s blessings, service, gratitude and the resolve for a Viksit Bharat. He said that in Indian culture, the diya gives the message of burning itself to spread light in others’ lives, dispelling darkness and paving the way for public welfare. In this spirit, this lamp is also a symbol of collective resolve towards service to the nation.

Artists and students of Sangeet Natak Akademi, Kathak Kendra, National School of Drama, Lalit Kala Akademi and Zonal Cultural Centres gave presentations based on Indian classical and cultural traditions at the event. After the programme, the Union Minister interacted with artists, students, representatives of the National Culture Fund, Adopt a Heritage initiative and other stakeholders and appreciated their contribution in the preservation and promotion of Indian cultural heritage.(updated on 18th sept 2026)