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Diwali 2024 is shaping up to be an especially meaningful festival for Indians, with the celebration taking on new significance against the backdrop of major political events. This year’s Diwali, falling on November 1, comes just as India heads into the general election season in early 2025, putting the festival in the spotlight as an important moment for the Modi government to connect with the people.
For Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government, Diwali represents a chance to share the vision of a prosperous India with a strong cultural and spiritual foundation. In recent years, Diwali has been celebrated with grandeur by the government, with initiatives like grand Ayodhya celebrations and new infrastructure announcements linked to the festival. But this year, the Modi administration is expected to make it even more memorable. Reports suggest there may be plans to announce development projects, rural subsidies, or new welfare schemes aimed at enhancing living standards, especially in rural areas and for underprivileged communities.
One significant aspect of Diwali 2024 will be the celebrations in Ayodhya. Since the inauguration of the grand Ram Temple, which is set to be a historic landmark for Hindu pilgrims and tourists alike, Ayodhya has taken center stage. This Diwali, the Ram Temple is expected to open for public worship, with massive crowds likely to gather for the first grand Diwali celebrations at the site. For the Modi government, this is not just a religious event but also a major cultural milestone, reflecting their commitment to India’s heritage and values.
To mark the occasion, the government has planned a series of events, from illuminating major historical sites to large-scale firework displays. Additionally, special trains and buses have been arranged to bring people from across India to witness the Ayodhya Diwali, creating a shared experience that’s both festive and unifying. Media coverage of the event will be extensive, showcasing the grandeur of the celebration and reflecting the government’s narrative of a resurgent, culturally vibrant India.
Beyond Ayodhya, Diwali this year is likely to feature announcements related to job creation and economic growth. With inflation and job opportunities as pressing issues for many Indians, the Modi government is expected to unveil initiatives to address these concerns. Some economists speculate there may be new tax benefits for small businesses, incentives for manufacturing, or agriculture schemes to support the rural economy. By addressing these critical issues during the Diwali season, the government hopes to resonate with voters who are looking for stability and growth.
The Modi government is also emphasising the festival’s spirit of unity by encouraging people to come together in support of national priorities. Campaigns promoting “Make in India” are expected to run nationwide, urging citizens to buy locally-produced goods as a way of supporting the economy. Diwali fairs and markets across India will see more small businesses offering handmade items, artisanal products, and eco-friendly decorations, reinforcing the idea of self-sufficiency and Indian pride. These efforts reflect the government’s focus on economic resilience, a message likely to play well with voters as elections approach.
Additionally, as the festival is celebrated with family gatherings and community events, Diwali offers a timely moment for the Modi administration to emphasize its stance on social issues, including women’s empowerment, youth employment, and digital literacy. Initiatives encouraging girls’ education, skill development for young people, and digital resources for all are expected to be highlighted in campaigns across TV and social media, connecting the festival’s meaning of light and knowledge with these government priorities.
With all eyes on the festival, Diwali 2024 is not just about celebrations and lights; it’s about presenting a vision for India’s future. As millions of diyas illuminate homes across the nation, the Modi government is likely hoping the festival will also kindle a sense of optimism among the public, showcasing a government committed to cultural pride, economic growth, and social progress.
For the Modi administration, Diwali 2024 represents an opportunity to highlight their achievements, future plans, and vision for an India that celebrates its heritage while moving confidently toward a prosperous future.
