Nostalgic Modi pens poems for Navratri

Says festival not only gives impetus to tourism but ushers economic development in form of livelihood for the poor

Nostalgic over the nine-day festival of Navratri Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday released a garba and a poem penned by him as a tribute to Goddess Jagadamba. He further said that the festival has not only given impetus to tourism but has ushered economic development in form of livelihood for the poor.

"For the next nine days, people across India, especially Gujarat, shall immerse themselves in celebrations that mark one of our most important festivals and also the beginning the festive season.Navratri is central to the cultural identity of Gujaratis. Garba and Raas form a centuries old tradition going back to the time of Lord Krishna — it is the cultural heritage of every Gujarati," Modi stated on his blog.

The popularity of garbas has transcended Gujarat’s shores as there are at least 500 cities around the world where this festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, he said, adding that festivals like Navratri are now giving a strong impetus to tourism and particularly in giving the poorest of the poor additional sources of livelihood.

"With more tourists coming to Gujarat being drawn to our cultural heritage, our handicraft artisans are receiving a strong boost. Those who are involved with the hospitality sector, including transport operators, have begun earning a higher income and this has lit the lamp of prosperity in their homes," the chief minister said.

In his garba song he has described how the traditional folk art belonged to everybody, the rich the poor and how it is a pride of Gujarat. While his poem is a tribute to Goddess Jagadamba where he has sought her divine blessings to fulfill his task.

Modi also informed that he has been fasting during Navratri since last 35 years which according to him was an act of self-purification. "Fasts such as this have been a source of strength, power and inspiration for me over the last many years," the senior BJP leader said on his blog.