'Durga Puja festival of unity': PM Modi in address to poll-bound West Bengal

Modi's bid to reach the Bengali community was almost evident as he began his address in Bengali, later apologising for any fumbles he had done.

Equating Durga Puja with a symbol of unity, Modi, the only trump card for the BJP in West Bengal politics, said, "The festival of Durga Puja is also a festival of unity and wholeness of India. Durga Puja of Bengal gives this newness of India a new glow, gives new colors, gives new makeup."

"It is because of the power of the devotion of Bengali brothers and sisters, I am not feeling I am in Delhi. I am feeling like being in Kolkata," the PM said.

Though Modi's address was a much-awaited event, Durga Puja in 2020 has been toned down amid Covid-19 scare, particularly after the Calcutta High Court barred the entry of visitors in the puja pandals.

Lauding people of the state, Modi said, "We're all celebrating Durga Puja this year amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Everyone has shown immense control and commitment to the entire arrangements while also ensuring that the flavour remains the same."

"Amid the festivities, people should also maintain social distancing and wear masks," the PM reminded people a day after he had asked people not to drop the Covid-19 guards as the pandemic is still not over.

Apart from the wishes, the PM during his address highlighted various schemes of the central government besides stressing on women's empowerment.

Modi's speech was preceded by a song of Rabindranath Tagore sung by Union Minister and singer Babul Supriyo apart from a dance programme by artist Dona Ganguly's group.