'Maa Tujhe Salaam' Echoes on INS Vikrant as PM Modi Celebrates Diwali with Navy Heroes - Watch

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Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with naval personnel aboard India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, off the coast of Goa. The highlight of the evening came when sailors sang “Maa Tujhe Salaam”, with Modi waving to them amid the festive atmosphere.The prime minister described the indigenously built warship as a “towering symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, reflecting India’s growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Sources said Modi arrived in Goa discreetly on Sunday evening and boarded the carrier soon after.

Modi Witnesses MiG-29K Takeoffs and Operation Sindoor Tribute

During the visit, Modi watched MiG-29K fighter jets take off and land on the short deck of INS Vikrant both in daylight and at night. He also attended a cultural programme where Navy officers and sailors performed patriotic songs — including one dedicated to the Indian Armed Forces’ success in Operation Sindoor.“The energy and enthusiasm you all were filled with cannot be described in words,” Modi told the personnel. “When I saw you singing patriotic songs yesterday, and the way you described Operation Sindoor, no words can ever fully convey the experience that a jawan feels standing on a battlefield.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9g4RdEIQMu0

‘My Diwali Has Been Special’: Modi

The prime minister shared dinner with naval families during a Bara Khana and joined a yoga session on the ship’s deck the following morning. He also witnessed a steampast of warships and a flypast by naval aircraft.“INS Vikrant is not just a warship — it is a testimony to 21st-century India’s hard work, talent, and commitment,” Modi said. “My Diwali has been special as it was spent amongst you.”

India’s Naval Strength on Display

Commissioned in 2022, INS Vikrant is India’s first home-built aircraft carrier and the largest warship ever constructed in the country. It joins INS Vikramaditya, India’s second operational carrier, in bolstering the Navy’s maritime strength.Since 2014, Modi has made it a tradition to celebrate Diwali with members of the armed forces across the country.