Closing Ceremony of the Bharat Parv 2026

I touch and salute the holy feet of Bharat Mata – the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful.

Hon’ble Minister of State for Tourism, Petroleum and Natural Gas,  Shri Suresh Gopi ji, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism – Dr. Srivatsa Krishna Ji.

I am pleased to be here at the closing ceremony of Bharat Parv 2026. This celebration over the past six days has truly reflected the soul of our nation. The spirit of the grand celebrations of the 77th Republic Day of our great Bharat has been carried forward through this Parv. The 77th Republic Day Parade stood as a vibrant reflection of India’s unity in diversity, discipline in strength, and progress with purpose. Our armed forces led the parade with pride, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to the sovereignty and security of Mother Bharat. The very well decorated tableaux of various states and ministries across many themes, beautifully narrated the story of a confident and progressive nation. The Republic Day parade was a reaffirmation of the creativity of our people, the dedication of our institutions, and our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

Bharat Parv is more than a festival; it is an experience one that brings alive the timeless spirit of India. Each state and region telling its own story, yet all united by a shared civilizational ethos. This is the true strength of our nation: unity in diversity, not as a slogan, but as a lived reality. This year also holds deep national significance as we commemorate 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’. This timeless song ignited the spirit of freedom and unity during our independence movement. Its message of reverence for the motherland aligns profoundly with the spirit of Bharat Parv and the constitutional values that bind us together. Bharat Parv also stands as a reflection of the vision of our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shriman Narendra Modi Ji, who has consistently emphasised the importance of India’s cultural heritage as a source of national pride, social cohesion, and economic opportunity. The Parv captures in essence the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ bringing together the traditions, crafts,        cuisines, and artistic expressions from across our great Bharat in a vibrant celebration of our shared cultural heritage. This celebration of unity resonates deeply with the spirit that I witnessed during my visit to Kashi Tamil Sangamam 4.0 at Rameswaram. The timeless cultural bonds between regions came alive, reinforcing the idea that India’s diversity is its greatest strength.

As we progress through the Amrit Kaal, the 25-year journey towards the centenary of our Independence, India is witnessing transformation at a scale unseen in its modern history. Infrastructure expansion, digital empowerment, financial inclusion, social security, women-led development and youth innovation are reshaping the foundations of our economy and society. One of the most visible reflections of this national confidence is the extraordinary rise in domestic tourism. India recorded over 400 crore domestic Tourist visits in 2025, demonstrating not only economic recovery after the pandemic but a renewed enthusiasm of Indians to explore their own country. The Government’s sustained investments in connectivity and tourism infrastructure are ensuring that there is a balanced growth among various regions of the country. Enhanced road networks, expanded rail connectivity, through trains such as Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, new airports, improved facilities at heritage sites, pilgrimage circuits and nature destinations particularly in regions like the North-east are opening opportunities that were once limited by challenges of connectivity.

I congratulate the Ministry of Tourism for successfully organizing Bharat Parv as its flagship annual event, and for creating a platform where culture, tourism, and national pride come together seamlessly. This festival has once again reaffirmed India’s position as not only a destination, but a journey one that offers meaning, warmth, and connection. It reminds us that when we celebrate each other’s heritage, we strengthen the bonds that hold our nation together. I would like to appreciate the artists, artisans and performers who have brought life to Bharat Parv. Your dedication preserves our heritage and passes it on to future generations. You are the true ambassadors of India’s soft power. My appreciation also goes to the organizers, volunteers, and all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. You have ensured that this grand event is inclusive, safe, and memorable for visitors from across the country and abroad. Let us all continue to explore India, celebrate India and build India together. May Bharat Parv continue to strengthen the bonds between our people, regions and cultures. May our great Bharat continue to grow in harmony, prosperity and global stature. Bharat is Ek and will be Ek forever. Jai Hind! Long Live Mother Bharat!