Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his heartfelt ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, celebrated Rashtrapati Bhavan’s bold decision to install a statue of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, replacing one of British architect Edwin Lutyens. This change symbolizes India’s break from symbols of subjugation, aligning with the freedom from ‘slave mentality’ – one of the five vows he announced from the Red Fort.
The unveiling will occur tomorrow, February 23, during the ‘Rajaji Utsav’ at the President’s central courtyard. Rajaji, who served as the last Governor-General of independent India and the first Indian in that role, embodied discipline, independent thinking, and service over power. Modi pointed out the irony: post-1947, British statues remained, but heroes like Rajaji were sidelined.
An accompanying exhibition detailing his contributions will be open to the public from February 24 through March 1. ‘Make time to visit,’ Modi appealed, encouraging families to engage with this piece of history.
Shifting to festive preparations, the PM advocated for swadeshi products in Holi and other celebrations. ‘Ditch foreign items; choose local to power Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ he urged. He also sought listener inputs for the program, highlighting how suggestions uncover hidden talents and selfless initiatives across India.
As Amrit Mahotsav of Independence continues, such initiatives reinforce cultural revival and self-respect, marking a new chapter in national narrative.