He said the festivals marked the arrival of a new year, bringing with it a sense of renewal, hope and fresh possibilities
19 March, 2026 – New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday wished the country on the occasions of Ugadi, Chaitra Navratri, and Gudi Padwa.
He said the festivals marked the arrival of a new year, bringing with it a sense of renewal, hope and fresh possibilities.
“Greetings to everyone on the very special occasion of Nav Samvatsar. May everyone be blessed with infinite happiness, success and good health,” he said in a message.
“I pray that this coming new year further strengthens the spirit of courage, self-confidence and service in everyone’s lives. May it also add renewed momentum to our collective efforts towards nation-building,” Modi said.
Nav Samvatsar, the Hindu New Year (Vikram Samvat 2083), begins on Thursday, marking the start of the Chaitra Shukla Pratipada.
The prime minister also greeted people on the occasion of Navratri, a festival observed in honour of the goddess Durga. He reflected on the tradition of “restraint and discipline” for devotion during the nine days of Navratri.
Highlighting the value of worshipping Maa Shakti in nine forms, the PM said that this vision made ‘Unity in Diversity’ India’s natural ethos.
“Navratri is also a festival that reflects the Upanishadic philosophy of “ekovh bhusyaam’, which enables us to perceive the Divine in multiple forms. It is this vision that establishes India as the ‘Mother of Democracy’ and makes ‘Unity in Diversity’ our natural ethos. During these nine days of Navratri, I pray to Maa Adi Shakti for the welfare of all citizens,” the PM wrote.
In separate letters addressed to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Maharashtra and Goa, the PM said the onset of spring indicated “new energy and possibilities”.
Highlighting the “bitter-sweet” culinary delights prepared traditionally on the occasion, he encouraged people to face challenges with courage and gratitude.
Modi also wished Gudi Padwa to the people of Maharashtra and Goa, describing the festival as a symbol of “victory, prosperity and optimism”. He underscored the significance of holding onto our roots in a rapidly changing world and said that the occasion instilled a renewed sense of purpose in all.
Conveying his greetings on the occasion of Cheti Chand, a festival that marks the beginning of the new year for the Sindhi community, he said, “Best wishes on Cheti Chand! Praying for a very good year. May this sacred festival bring joy, fulfil hopes and aspirations and strengthen the spirit of togetherness in society. May the divine blessings of Lord Jhulelal guide us all towards peace and prosperity.”
The PM also extended greetings on the occasion of Navreh, a new year festival celebrated by Kashmiri Pandits. “Navreh Poshte! Have a great year ahead. Warm greetings on the joyous occasion of Navreh!” he said.
Modi said as people welcomed the new year, may it usher in fresh hopes, renewed energy and abundant opportunities for all.
“Let this new year inspire us to move forward with confidence, embrace new possibilities and work towards a brighter, healthier and more fulfilling future,” he said.
The prime minister also greeted people on the occasion of Sajibu Cheiraoba, a new year festival of Meiteis of Manipur.
“Sajibu Cheiraoba greetings. Wishing everyone a wonderful year. May the new year usher in abundant joy, prosperity and success in all your endeavours. Praying that the spirit of hope and positivity prevails everywhere,” he added.
The Tribune