New Delhi, Aug 15 (NVI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called upon the people to dream big and work collectively to realise the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047, asserting that the country’s resolve to become ‘Viksit Bharat’ will make the world look at it differently.
Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Modi said India can no longer afford to have small dreams and must set ambitious goals matching its potential.
“Small dreams are not sufficient anymore. We should dream big. India has a big dream to become ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047. When the world’s most populous nation resolves to become developed, the world will look at us differently,” he said.
Modi, who delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day address from the Red Fort, paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and other freedom fighters, recalling their sacrifices in the country’s struggle for independence.
He urged citizens to contribute towards building a stronger, developed and self-reliant India, saying the aspirations of the people must match the country’s vast potential.
The prime minister also noted that ‘Vande Mataram’ was echoing from the Red Fort for the first time since Independence, giving added significance to the national celebrations.
Traditional Turban Draws Attention
Modi appeared at the Red Fort wearing a traditional red tie-and-dye turban, continuing his tradition of showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage through his Independence Day attire.
He paired the turban with a white kurta and chocolate-brown vest, with saffron, white and green pocket squares adding a subtle tricolour touch.
The traditional tie-and-dye turban is associated with the cultural traditions of Rajasthan and Gujarat, while Modi’s colourful Independence Day headgear over the years has become a distinctive feature of the national celebrations.
In 2025, he wore a vibrant Rajasthani leheriya turban in orange, yellow and green hues. In 2024, he opted for a bandhani-style turban, while earlier appearances featured turbans in different colours and patterns representing India’s regional textiles and craftsmanship.
Modi’s first Independence Day appearance as prime minister in 2014 featured a red Jodhpuri bandhej turban. Since then, his choice of traditional turbans has reflected India’s regional diversity and textile heritage alongside the national significance of August 15.(NVI)
