Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi highlights global reach of Lord Ganesha’s cultural traditions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the growing global recognition of India’s faith, art and cultural traditions, citing the example of a Thai devotee who has spent more than four decades studying traditions associated with Lord Ganesha.

Addressing the nation in the 138th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, PM Modi recalled the celebrations of Ganesha Utsav across India and said the festival is marked by devotion, enthusiasm and joy.

He said Vighnharta Bhagwan Shri Ganesha symbolises knowledge, wisdom and the auspicious beginning of any endeavour, adding that reverence for Ganesha extends beyond India.

The Prime Minister highlighted the journey of Panthoun Thirkhanon, a devotee from Thailand, where Lord Ganesha is worshipped as ‘Phra Phikanet’. PM Modi said Thirkhanon developed a deep devotion to Ganesha after his father gifted him a photograph of the deity when he was 19.

“He has spent over four decades studying traditions associated with Bhagwan Shri Ganesha,” PM Modi said.

Thirkhanon has travelled across several Asian countries, including India and Nepal, and has developed a particular affection for Maharashtra. After learning about the Ashtavinayak tradition, he visited the region several times and helped popularise the Ashtavinayak pilgrimage tradition among devotees in Thailand.

PM Modi said Thirkhanon established the Ganesha Himal Museum in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, in 2002. The museum now houses more than 10,000 idols of Lord Ganesha.

The museum also has idols representing the Ashtavinayak tradition for devotees who are unable to travel to India. Worship rituals are conducted every Sunday morning at around 10 am, while special celebrations are organised on occasions associated with Lord Ganesha.

“This demonstrates how India’s faith, art, and cultural traditions are gaining popularity in other countries as well,” PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister expressed the hope that the blessings of Lord Ganesha would remain with everyone.

“I wish that the blessings of Ganpati Bappa remain with everyone always,” he said.

PM Modi Urges People to Share Inspiring Stories

Towards the conclusion of the programme, PM Modi also encouraged listeners to continue sharing stories of inspiring initiatives and community efforts from across the country.

He said he receives numerous messages on a wide range of subjects after every episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ and urged people to continue sending such inspiring stories.

“Do continue to share such inspiring stories,” PM Modi said.

He noted that appreciation for initiatives taking place in local communities can further encourage those involved, while stories featured on ‘Mann Ki Baat’ can inspire people in other parts of the country to undertake similar efforts.

“When you appreciate the initiatives taking place around you, the enthusiasm of those involved grows even further,” the Prime Minister said.

“Learning about these efforts through ‘Mann Ki Baat’ inspires people in other parts of the country as well,” he added.

PM Modi expressed hope that the journey would continue with public support and extended his greetings to citizens for the upcoming festivals.

“May this journey continue to move forward with your support,” he said.

The post Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi highlights global reach of Lord Ganesha’s cultural traditions appeared first on DD India.

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