PM’s Pagadi: Importance Of Turbans Worn By PM Modi On Independence Day

PM Modi’s Pagadi: PM Modi hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort for the tenth time on Independence Day. One constant during all these hoisting years was his gorgeous Pagadi (turban). His Independence Day outfit received applause from all over the world and the credit mainly goes to his Pagadi. Do you know the significance of his choice of parade?

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2023

In this article, we try to decode the themes and ideas behind each outfit worn by Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the decade.

What is Pagadi?

Pagadi is the local name for the turban in the Indian subcontinent. Both men and women wear the turban as a sign of honor and respect. In some regions, the turban is also called a saafa, and the turban worn represents the individual’s region and community.

Highlights from PM Modi’s Independence Day speech

The significance of Pagadi Prime Minister over the years

2024

The 2024 Pagadi will be themed “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), showcasing the aspiration to develop the country by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence. Wearing the traditional headdress highlights India’s rich traditions while addressing contemporary issues, connecting the past with future aspirations.

2023

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day wearing a colorful Rajasthani Bandhej Safa. He teamed the ethnic outfit with an off-white kurta and churidar and a black jacket.

2022

PM Modi wore a tri-colour themed turban to support the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ movement during the 76th Independence Day. His powder blue jacket matched the turban.

2021

While delivering his eighth Independence Day address to the nation as Prime Minister, he wore a saffron turban with red patterns and a long pink tail. His entire outfit consisted of a traditional kurta and churidar, a blue jacket and a shawl.

2020

In 2020, Narendra Modi chose a cream-colored traditional kurta and churidar, and an orange and yellow safa. Safa is the Rajasthan term for Pagadi, with a long, loose train.

2019

Prime Minister Modi, wearing a white kurta and a red-orange-with-green Lehria turban, hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort.

2018

PM Modi’s Independence Day 2018 look consisted of a plain orange and red saffron with a long train and a white kurta. He paired it with a black and white shawl.

2017

PM Modi chose a beige bandhavgara kurta paired with a yellow and red long-tailed turban.

2016

On the occasion of the 69th Independence Day, PM Modi wore a pure white kurta paired with a red, pink and yellow Rajasthani safa.

2015

This year, PM Modi wore a kurta paired with a beige Nehru jacket. His turban had red and green stripes. Modi jacket. His look also came with an extra touch – a tri-colour pocket square.

2014

On his first Independence Day as Prime Minister, Narendra Modi opted for a bright red Jodhpur Bandhan turban with a loose green tail. He also paired it with an off-white half-sleeved Khadi kurta and his signature white tight churidar.

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