Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday reminded citizens to be wary of the looming threat of the coronavirus pandemic as a slew of festivities dawn on the nation.

Addressing the nation through the 70th edition of his radio programme ‘Mann ki Baat’, PM Modi extended his greetings to the citizens on the occasion of Dussehra. 

“Today it is Bijaya Dashami, my good wishes to you,” the 70-year-old BJP leader said. “Many festivities are coming up, but we must be careful during the festive season.”

“Dussehra is also a festival of victory of patience over crises. Today, all of you are living with great restraint, celebrating festivals with modesty. Therefore, in the battle against COVID-19, we are fighting and victory is certain,” he said. 

PM Modi stated that a number of festivals across the nation have been dampened due to the pandemic, which has infected over 78 lakh Indians and killed over 1.18 lakh of them. 

“Previously, a large number of people used to gather in Durga Pandal. It was a fair-like atmosphere during Durga Pooja and Dussehra, but this time it didn’t happen. Many more festivals are to be observed, we’ve to work with restraint during this coronavirus crisis,” he added. 

He said that similar restrictions were imposed on the Ramlila festivities and the special ‘Garbha’ dance in his home state of Gujarat during the Navratri week. 

Earlier, the Union Ministry of Health and Fmaily Welfare had released guidelines for the upcoming festival season, urging them to tone down the celebrations this year. 

The Ministry has directed organisers of various festive activities to lay out a detailed site plan and comply with health-safety protocols such as thermal screening, physical distancing and sanitisation. 

The Prime Minister also emphasised on promoting the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, saying that the world has started taking note of Indian products with the country’s increased focus on homegrown products.

He singled out Khadi for its rising popularity on the global stage, saying that while it has been the “hallmark of simplicity”, it is also  being recognised as “eco-friendly fabric”.