Joyous Celebrations: PM Modi Spends Diwali with Naval Heroes Aboard INS Vikrant

In a heartwarming continuation of a now decade-long tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the festival of lights, Diwali, in the company of the nation’s brave sailors. On Monday, October 20, 2025, the Prime Minister was onboard India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, stationed off the western seaboard near Goa and Karwar, creating a truly spectacular backdrop for the celebration. The annual ritual saw the Prime Minister exchanging greetings and sharing moments of joy with naval personnel, reinforcing the deep, familial bond he shares with the Indian Armed Forces. His visit transcended a mere official engagement, turning the colossal warship into a home away from home for the festival.

The Prime Minister’s message was simple yet profound, emphasizing that his annual tradition is not a duty, but a personal preference:

• “People love celebrating Diwali with their families. And so do I, which is why every year I meet our army and security personnel who keep our nation safe,” the Prime Minister shared on X, expressing his deep satisfaction at being amidst the naval personnel. This sentiment underscores the philosophy behind his unique celebration style, which views every member of the armed forces as part of his extended family. This year’s experience was distinctly framed by the momentous setting of the PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant.

The Annual Tradition: The Bond of PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant

The Prime Minister has consistently chosen to spend the auspicious day of Diwali with the forces posted at the frontiers, ranging from the Himalayan heights of Siachen to the border posts in Jammu and Kashmir. This 11th consecutive year saw him embracing the Navy, highlighting the critical role of India’s maritime security in the nation’s strategic defence architecture.

The key takeaways from the Prime Minister’s address to the personnel aboard INS Vikrant emphasized duty, family, and national pride:

• A Fortunate Celebration: The Prime Minister expressed immense gratitude, stating he felt “fortunate” to celebrate the holy festival among the brave sailors of the Navy. He described the breathtaking scene on the open sea, noting, “The glow of the sun’s rays on the ocean’s waters is like the Diwali lamps lit by brave soldiers.” This poetic comparison beautifully tied the natural elements of the location to the festival’s spiritual light.
• The Family Connection: He reiterated that celebrating with the armed forces had become a deeply ingrained “habit,” saying, “It has become a habit of mine to celebrate Diwali with my family, and that’s why every year I come to celebrate Diwali with my family.” This simple statement resonated with every soldier and sailor who spends the festival away from their own kin.
• An Unforgettable Night: Reflecting on the time spent on the carrier, the Prime Minister spoke of witnessing an “immense energy and enthusiasm” among the crew. He specifically recalled the captivating sight of the personnel singing patriotic songs and their powerful description of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ an act that he felt no words could fully convey. The spirit aboard for the PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant was palpable.

INS Vikrant: A Symbol of Strength and PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant

The choice of the vessel for the PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant was highly symbolic. INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously designed and built aircraft carrier, represents the nation’s resolve towards self-reliance, encapsulated in the vision of #AtmanirbharBharat.

The Prime Minister highlighted the carrier’s multifaceted significance:

• Shedding Colonial Legacy: The Prime Minister reminded the crew of the day the nation inducted INS Vikrant, noting that it was the same day the Indian Navy adopted a new ensign. This new ensign, inspired by the valour of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, marked a powerful farewell to a symbol of colonial rule, truly reflecting India’s pride and identity.
• A Symbol of Indigenous Power: INS Vikrant, he asserted, is a powerful and ‘Swadeshi’ symbol of India’s burgeoning strength and technological prowess. This self-reliance is a message to the world, and most critically, to potential adversaries. The carrier is a giant, embodying infinite power standing against the infinite horizons of the sea.
• Giving Sleepless Nights: In a strong salute to the defence capabilities, the Prime Minister proudly mentioned the carrier’s deterrent effect, stating, “Few months back we saw that Vikrant gave Pakistan sleepless nights only by his name. I want to salute our forces.” The very existence of this indigenous powerhouse as the location for the PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant sent a clear geopolitical message.

This annual ritual is more than a cultural observance; it is a powerful demonstration of leadership, national unity, and a tribute to the sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces. The PM Modi Diwali with INS Vikrant event stands as a luminous example of how the country honors its protectors, strengthening the morale and affirming the nation’s commitment to its defence personnel.