On January 14, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Pongal celebrations at the New Delhi residence of Union Minister of State L. Murugan, describing the harvest festival as a “global celebration” that reflects the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. Speaking on the cultural importance of the occasion, the Prime Minister said Pongal today connects Indians across regions and communities while carrying India’s traditions to the world.

Highlighting Tamil heritage, PM Modi praised Tamil culture as one of the world’s oldest living civilizations and called it a shared legacy of humanity. He underlined that India takes immense pride in Tamil being one of the world’s oldest living classical languages, adding that its traditions, values, and literature continue to inspire generations across the country and beyond.

Paying tribute to farmers, the Prime Minister described them as the “foundation of life” and said Pongal symbolizes respect for their hard work and dedication. He noted that the festival is not just about harvest, but also about expressing gratitude to nature, the Earth, and the Sun, which sustain human life and agriculture.

Emphasizing environmental responsibility, PM Modi urged the youth to lead a movement toward sustainable farming and water conservation. Linking traditional values with modern initiatives like Mission LiFE, he said gratitude toward nature should become a way of life. During the celebrations, he also performed puja and fed cows, marking the auspicious occasion and reinforcing India’s deep-rooted cultural unity.