New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to veteran singer Lata Mangeshkar’s message on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, saying her wish had infused him with “infinite inspiration and energy”.
Mangeshkar had posted a video message Monday, wishing the prime minister. “Narendra Bhai, I would like to wish you on the occasion of Rakhi and say pranam. I couldn’t send a Rakhi and everybody knows the reason why,” she said in the video, alluding to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In response, Modi tweeted that “Lata didi, on this auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, your heartfelt message gives infinite inspiration and energy. With the blessings of crores of mothers and sisters, our country will touch new heights and achieve new successes. May you be healthy and live long, this is my prayer to God”.
लता दीदी, रक्षा बंधन के इस शुभ अवसर पर आपका यह भावपूर्ण संदेश असीम प्रेरणा और ऊर्जा देने वाला है। करोड़ों माताओं-बहनों के आशीर्वाद से हमारा देश नित नई ऊंचाइयों को छुएगा, नई-नई सफलताएं प्राप्त करेगा। आप स्वस्थ रहें और दीर्घायु हों, ईश्वर से मेरी यही प्रार्थना है। @mangeshkarlata https://t.co/pDHg0y3fDT
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 3, 2020
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Mangeshkar lauds Modi for his efforts
In her video message, which featured a montage of both Mangeshkar and Modi’s photographs from across the years, the singer lauded the latter’s efforts towards the country and its development.
“Narendra Bhai, you have worked so hard for the country and said such good things that the people of the country will never be able to forget. Today, lakhs and crores of women in India turn to you to tie a rakhi but it is difficult to do so right now. However, you know how everybody feels. I would also like it if you could promise us this Rakhi that you will take India to greater heights,” she said.
Earlier, on Mangeshkar’s 90th birthday, on 28 September 2019, Modi had called her during his Mann Ki Baat radio address and wished her.
“There would hardly be anyone who does not show utmost regard for Lata Mangeshkar ji. She is elder to most of us and has been witness to different eras in the country. We address her as ‘didi’,” said Modi.
Responding to his wish, Mangeshkar had said, “I know that the picture of India is changing with your arrival and that, that makes me very happy.”
Spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi, popularly known as ‘Amma’ by her followers, also greeted Modi on Raksha Bandhan.
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