'Tricolour flies in every home & dwells in every mind': PM Modi from Red Fort - top quotes

‘Every heart is beating with rhythm of Vande Mataram’: PM Modi addresses nation on 80th I-Day - top quotes TOI News Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Aug 15, 2026, 07:53 IST Comments Share AA Text Size Small Medium Large Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the 80th Independence day addressed the nation from Red Fort. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, marking his 13th consecutive Independence Day address as prime minister.PM Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort, with the ceremony synchronised with a 21-gun salute fired by the ceremonial gunners of the 1721 Field Battery.The ceremonial battery used indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns. It was commanded by Major Pawan Singh Shekhawat, while Naib Subedar Anuthosh Sarkar served as the Gun Position Officer. Addressing the nation, PM Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and those who fought for India's freedom."I pay my tributes to Bapu and all the freedom fighters and revolutionaries on this Independence Day."The prime minister also invoked the patriotic spirit associated with the national song, saying the country was united in celebrating the Tricolour. "Today, every heart is beating with the rhythm of Vande Mataram. Aaj har ghar Tiranga hai, har mann Tiranga hai."The Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort is the centrepiece of the country's national celebrations, with the prime minister traditionally using the occasion to outline the government's priorities and address the nation on key issues. PM Modi's top quotes On freedom fighters"I pay my tributes to Bapu and all the freedom fighters and revolutionaries on this Independence Day."On Vande Mataram and the Tricolour"Today, every heart is beating with the rhythm of Vande Mataram. Aaj har ghar Tiranga hai, har mann Tiranga hai." The TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most."