New Delhi, June 28, 2025: On the morning of June 28, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to the global Kutchi community on the occasion of Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), he wished peace, prosperity, and good health to Kutchi families around the world.
Honoring Tradition and the Monsoon’s Arrival
Ashadhi Bij is celebrated on the second day of the Hindu month of Ashadha. It marks the onset of the monsoon, a moment of great relief and renewal in the arid region of Kutch, Gujarat. For farmers, this day signals the start of a new agricultural cycle and brings fresh hope for a bountiful season.
Recognizing this deep-rooted significance, PM Modi posted a greeting in Gujarati:
“અષાઢી બીજ એટલે કચ્છી નયેં વરેંજે અવસર તેં કચ્છમેં અને દેશ, दुनियામેં વસધલ કચ્છી ભા, ભેણેં કે ધિલસેં વધાઇયું ડીયાંતો અને સુખ, શાંતિ, સમૃદ્ધિ અને આરોગ્ય હમેશાં જળવાઇ રે એડ઼ી શુભેચ્છાઉં ડીયાંતો.”
Translation: “On the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, I extend heartfelt greetings to all Kutchi brothers and sisters living in Kutch, across India, and around the world. May you be blessed with happiness, peace, prosperity, and good health.”
Celebrating Culture in a Connected World
India’s regional festivals serve as cultural anchors for diaspora communities. A message from the Prime Minister during such occasions is more than symbolic—it helps reinforce cultural pride and belonging. In today’s digital age, even a short greeting can inspire reflection and rekindle interest in heritage among younger generations.
A Global Cultural Bridge
The Kutchi diaspora spans countries like the UK, UAE, Kenya, and the United States. PM Modi’s greetings not only honor their traditions but also recognize their contributions to the global Indian identity. These messages help bridge distances and nurture emotional ties with the homeland.
Why It Matters
Festivals like Ashadhi Bij are moments of unity. They encourage families to gather, share stories, and celebrate cultural values. For communities with strong oral and folk traditions, such as the Kutchi, this occasion is a vibrant reminder of their shared legacy.
Building a Stronger National Identity
Through initiatives like Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, India continues to promote unity in diversity. When leaders acknowledge regional festivals, they help strengthen national cohesion. Ashadhi Bij, while specific to Kutch, reflects India’s rich cultural fabric—something PM Modi frequently highlights in both policy and personal outreach.
