Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked India's 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025, by delivering his 12th consecutive address from the Red Fort in New Delhi. As has become a hallmark of these annual addresses, his attire was carefully chosen to reflect the spirit of the nation. This year, Modi appeared in an all-saffron ensemble, a visual representation of the "Naya Bharat" (New India) theme, symbolizing energy, courage, and a commitment to progress.
The Prime Minister's outfit comprised an orange turban in the safa or pagri style, a crisp white kurta, and a Nehru jacket-style waistcoat, also in orange. A tricolor stole, featuring saffron, white, and green, was draped around his neck, adding a patriotic touch. Each year, PM Modi's choice of headgear has served not just as a fashion statement, but as a vivid symbol of national unity and cultural heritage.
Over the years, Modi has consistently used his Independence Day attire to showcase India's rich cultural diversity. In 2024, he sported a vibrant Rajasthani leheriya-print turban in shades of orange, yellow, and green, paired with a white kurta and a blue jacket. The leheriya print, a traditional tie-dye textile from Rajasthan, is inspired by the wave-like patterns formed by desert winds. In 2023, he chose a colorful bandhani-print turban with shades of yellow, orange, violet, green, and red. In 2022, his turban was a tricolor creation with white and green stripes against a saffron base, symbolizing the national flag and paying tribute to the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign. The Prime Minister complemented this with a light blue sleeveless jacket.
In 2021, Modi opted for a saffron turban with a long, flowing pink trail, teamed with a white kurta and a blue jacket. The year 2020 saw him in a more subdued saffron and cream turban with an orange and white scarf. In 2019, he wore a multicoloured turban with a lively border. His 2018 ensemble was a simple yet elegant all-white outfit, accented by a saffron turban with red patterns. In 2017, he chose a bright red and yellow turban decorated with intricate golden lines and traditional patterns. His first Independence Day address in 2014 saw him wearing a red Jodhpuri bandhej turban.
Beyond the sartorial choices, Modi's Independence Day speeches have consistently addressed key issues facing the nation. This year, he spoke about India's achievements, hailed the armed forces for Operation Sindoor, and reiterated his vision for a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) by 2047. He also warned against illegal infiltration, emphasizing that no nation can tolerate intruders. Modi's address also touched upon "Mission Sudarshan Chakra," aimed at bolstering national security.
In a historical context, Modi broke Indira Gandhi's record by delivering 12 consecutive Independence Day speeches from the Red Fort, standing next only to Jawaharlal Nehru, who delivered 17. Furthermore, his 103-minute speech on Friday became the longest Independence Day address by any Indian Prime Minister, surpassing his own previous record.
Through his carefully chosen attire and impactful speeches, PM Modi continues to use the annual Independence Day address as a platform to connect with the nation, celebrate its heritage, and outline his vision for its future.
