When he took over as the Prime Minister of India nine years ago, one of the first initiatives Narendra Modi began was 'Mann Ki Baat', a 30-minute radio show which broadcasted on the last Sunday of every month. His aim was to talk to the people directly across the nation about different issues of the nation.
Since then, the programme, which airs on the Doordarshan Network and All India Radio (AIR) has become one of the indispensable markers of Modi's tenure as Prime Minister and a household name. A recent study of the show found that over 96 per cent of Indians were aware of the programme, and more than a 100 crore have listened to the show at least once.
This Sunday, the show marked its 100th episode. During these episodes, the show has seen many historic moments. To drive the programme's now-enduring relevance and popularity, it was duly commemorated on Sunday by the Modi government. To commemmorate the 100th episode, it was aired globally this time, alongside the lighting of national monuments.
In turn, all over, the programme was honoured throughout the land and abroad the diaspora. From MPs in Indore organising the broadcast of the progamme in a cinema hall for people to two American states (New York and New Jersey) passing resolutions to honour its 100th episode, Mann Ki Baat received acclaim from all over.
From political leaders to celebrities, many took time out to listen and offer comments to honour the show. Amongst the numerous Bollywood stars weighing in, Shahid Kapoor said he felt very fortunate to be called in to listen to it, and pointed out how the programme was a clear reflection of how Modi wanted to stay connnected to his people, despite the demands of the office he holds.
Not just the lavish listening ceremonies, to honor the programme, many initiatives were started in different parts of the country. The Tourism Ministry announced that it planned a '100 days of Action' in connection with the 100th episode anniversary. At Puri Beach in Odisha, an incredible sand art display was put up by artist Sudarshan Pattnaik, who used about 7 tonnes of sand to create an eight-feet high sand art piece featuring Modi with 100 radios. To the far north, J&K Lieutenant Governor flagged off a marathon to mark the special date.
These were amongst many of the special actions taken to mark the programme that has become synonymous with Modi's tenure. Modi was humbled and took to social media after to express his gratitude, re-affirm his faith and thank all those who had honoured it, including the many notable names who also chipped in. Modi thanked Bill Gates personally.
