PM Narendra Modi Takes Veiled Dig At China, Says 'Shastra Puja In India...'

PM Narendra Modi said that India worships Shakti (Mata Durga) not for itself but for the welfare, well-being and prosperity of the whole universe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today took a veiled dig at China while addressing devotees during Dussehra celebrations in Delhi's Dwarka. Talking about the  Shashtra Puja or the tradition of worshipping arms, PM Modi said that in India, it's done to protect the land and not to capture other lands. PM Modi's remarks can be seen in a reference to China's expansionist policy under which Beijing always looks to grab the lands and sea areas of its neighbouring countries. It's one of the reasons that China has sour relations with its neighbouring countries like India and Taiwan.

"There is a tradition of weapon worship on Vijaya Dashmi. On Indian soil, weapons are worshipped not to capture any land but to protect it," said PM Modi.

भारत की धरती पर शस्त्रों की पूजा किसी भूमि पर आधिपत्य नहीं, बल्कि उसकी रक्षा के लिए की जाती है: PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/iCeS1Rkwao

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 24, 2023

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "On Vijayadashami, there is a tradition of 'Shastra Puja' as well. On Indian soil, weapons are worshipped not to dominate any land but to protect its own land. Our Shakti Puja is not just for us but for the welfare of the entire… pic.twitter.com/O66smuNlC4

— ANI (@ANI) October 24, 2023

He said that India worships Shakti (Mata Durga) not for itself but for the welfare, well-being and prosperity of the whole universe. He added that India's philosophy and ideology live by these basic principles. "We know the teachings of Gita and also know the manufacturing of INS Vikrant and Tejas. We know the dignity of Shri Ram and also know how to protect our borders," said PM Modi.

The Prime Minister said that India today is emerging as the world's largest democracy and the most trusted democracy. PM Modi also launched a veiled attack on Congress over the grand old party's caste census demand. "India needs to be alert today. We have to keep in mind that the burning of Ravana today is not confined to the burning of an effigy only. It should be the burning of elements that threaten the harmony of the society. This should burn the powers who want to divide India on the basis of caste and region," said PM Modi. 

PM Modi attended the 11th grand Ramleela of the Shri Ramleela Society in Dwarka, Sector 10, as the chief guest. He will also perform Ravana Dahan, which is the most important part of Dusshera.