Modi brands cultural critics as enemies during Vijayadashami address

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the crowd at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on Tuesday that anyone who attacks India's honor, dignity or harbors hatred for its culture is an enemy of the nation and must be identified and defeated. Speaking during the Vijayadashami celebrations, he called the festival a symbol of victory that gives courage to stand with truth and humanity. He quoted a Sanskrit couplet urging united thoughts, councils and institutions for the national interest. Modi urged the nation to unite against forces that divide society and insult its heritage. He invoked the pledge of "Nation First" and said the vision expressed at the Ayodhya Temple's Pran Pratishtha ceremony – “Ram se Rashtra” and “Dev se Desh” – will be fulfilled. Highlighting cultural pride, he noted that over the past twelve years more than 650 ancient idols have been returned to India after centuries of looting. He added that several Indian sites have recently entered the UNESCO World Heritage List and that UNESCO listed Diwali as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity last year. Modi said these achievements result from the collective will of millions. He concluded by urging the country to follow Lord Ram’s example of overcoming obstacles, using collective strength, public participation and proper use of resources to achieve the goal of a developed India.

Context

India’s focus on restoring stolen heritage and securing UNESCO recognitions is part of a broader push to boost national pride and tourism, while political leaders link cultural revival to overall development goals.