Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali on board the INS Vikrant.
New Delhi, India, October 20, 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed armed forces personnel during the Diwali celebration aboard the INS Vikrant today. He described the occasion as a remarkable day, moment, and sight, noting that on one side lies the vast ocean and on the other, the immense strength of India’s brave soldiers. He pointed out that while one side offers an infinite horizon and boundless sky, the other showcases the colossal might of INS Vikrant, symbolizing immense power. The Prime Minister remarked that the sparkle of sunlight on the sea resembles the lamps lit by the valiant soldiers during Deepavali, creating a divine garland of lights. He expressed his privilege in celebrating this Diwali among the brave personnel of the Indian Navy.
The Prime Minister recalled his night aboard INS Vikrant, describing the experience as difficult to express in words. He noted that the deep night at sea and the sunrise made this Diwali particularly memorable in many ways. From INS Vikrant, the Prime Minister extended heartfelt Diwali greetings to all 1.4 billion citizens of the country.
Recalling the moment when INS Vikrant was handed over to the nation, Prime Minister Modi stated that he had remarked at the time, “Vikrant is grand, immense, panoramic, unique, and exceptional.” He emphasized that Vikrant is not merely a warship; it is a testament to the hard work, talent, impact, and commitment of 21st-century India. The Prime Minister reminded everyone that on the very day the nation received the indigenously built INS Vikrant, the Indian Navy renounced a significant symbol of colonial legacy. He also highlighted that, inspired by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Navy adopted a new flag.
“INS Vikrant is a powerful symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and ‘Made in India,’” the Prime Minister declared. He emphasized that this indigenously built aircraft carrier, navigating through the ocean, showcases India’s military strength. He recalled that just a few months ago, the very name ‘Vikrant’ brought sleepless nights to the enemy. The Prime Minister asserted that the warship’s name alone is sufficient to deter the enemy’s bravado.
“India is rapidly progressing and fulfilling the dreams of its 1.4 billion citizens. Achievements once unimaginable are now a reality,” emphasized the Prime Minister, highlighting the nation’s momentum and growing confidence. He stated that the armed forces play a vital role in nation-building, possessing the ability to guide direction, the courage to lead, and the spirit to overcome challenges. He declared that the mountain peaks held by our soldiers will serve as pillars of victory for India, with the ocean waves echoing this triumph. The Prime Minister concluded by extending heartfelt Diwali greetings to all.
Source: Prime Minister’s Office
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