Kolkata, West Bengal | April 24

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his day in Kolkata with a visit to the banks of the Hooghly River, where he interacted with boatmen and locals while reflecting on the cultural and spiritual significance of the river.

During his visit, the Prime Minister emphasized his commitment to the development and prosperity of West Bengal, especially amid the ongoing Assembly election season.

“Ganga Flows Through the Soul of Bengal”

In a post shared on social media, PM Modi highlighted the deep emotional and cultural connection between Bengalis and the Ganga.

He stated that the river is not just a water body but a symbol of India’s civilisational heritage.

“For every Bengali, the Ganga occupies a very special place. One can say that the Ganga flows through the soul of Bengal,” he wrote.

He also expressed gratitude to “Maa Ganga” and described the experience as spiritually enriching.

Interaction with Boatmen and Locals

During the visit, PM Modi spent time with local boatmen and morning walkers.

He praised the hardworking nature of the boatmen and acknowledged their contribution to the local economy.

Additionally, he used the opportunity to connect with citizens and understand their daily lives.

Such interactions, according to officials, reflect the government’s grassroots approach to governance.

Capturing Kolkata’s Iconic Landmarks

The Prime Minister also shared photographs from his visit, showcasing iconic landmarks of Kolkata.

These included:

Howrah Bridge
Vidyasagar Setu

He mentioned that he tried his hand at photography, capturing the scenic beauty of the Hooghly River and its surroundings.

Political Context: Elections in West Bengal

The visit comes at a crucial time as West Bengal is witnessing a high-stakes Assembly election.

PM Modi, during recent rallies, has emphasized the need for political change in the state.

He stated that a “wave of change” is visible across Bengal and expressed confidence in electoral success for his party.

At the same time, he criticized the ruling Trinamool Congress, alleging governance issues and concerns related to women’s rights.

Focus on Women and Youth

The Prime Minister highlighted the role of women and youth in shaping the political landscape.

He claimed that large-scale participation from these groups signals a desire for transformation.

Moreover, he reiterated that policies aimed at empowering women will remain a priority.

Election Timeline

Remaining phases of polling: April 29
Counting of votes: May 4

The results are expected to determine the future political direction of the state.

PM Modi’s visit to the Hooghly River combined cultural symbolism with political messaging.

By highlighting the spiritual importance of the Ganga and engaging with local communities, he reinforced his connection with the people of West Bengal.

At the same time, his statements on development and governance underline the broader political narrative ahead of the election results.