Prime Minister Narendra Modi upheld his tradition of donning a vibrant turban for the Independence Day as he addressed the nation from the Red Fort. For the 11th year in a row, Modi wore a striking multi-colored Rajasthani-style turban featuring yellow, green, and orange hues, which has become a signature element of his Independence Day celebrations.
Since taking office in 2014, Modi has made his unique headwear a notable feature of the annual event. His attire, typically consisting of a white kurta and churidar paired with a jacket, reflects India’s diverse cultural heritage and national spirit. Each year, his turbans have varied from traditional to innovative designs, symbolizing regional and cultural richness.
Here’s a look back at some of Modi’s most memorable Independence Day turbans over the years:
2014 – Traditional Rajasthani Turban: Modi’s first Independence Day as Prime Minister saw him in a vivid Rajasthani turban in shades of orange, yellow, and green, celebrating the cultural vibrancy of Rajasthan with a blend of traditional and contemporary styles.
2015 – Criss-Cross Rajasthani Turban: The following year, Modi chose a yellow turban with multi-colored criss-cross patterns, featuring accents of red and green. The long trail of the turban was a traditional touch, enhancing its visual impact.
2016 – Vibrant Tie-Dye Turban: Modi’s 2016 turban was a burst of pink and yellow tie-dye, adding a festive flair to the occasion and showcasing India’s colorful traditions.
2017 – Bright Yellow Turban: In 2017, Modi wore a bright yellow turban with intricate geometric and traditional patterns, reflecting national pride and a forward-looking spirit.
2018 – Saffron Turban: Modi’s saffron turban of 2018, adorned with red patterns and a long trail, symbolized courage and sacrifice. The white stole with a geometric border complemented the vibrant headgear.
2019 – Heritage Turban: The 2019 Independence Day saw Modi in a saffron turban with elaborate embroidery, paired with a richly patterned stole, representing unity and progress.
(With PTI Inputs)
2020 – Saffron and Cream Turban: Modi’s 2020 turban was a striking combination of saffron and cream, matched with a white kurta, churidar, and an orange-white scarf, merging tradition with national significance.
2021 – Saffron with Red Patterns: The 2021 turban featured saffron with vibrant red patterns and a flowing pink trail, worn with a blue jacket and white scarf, symbolizing resilience and cultural pride during the pandemic.
2022 – Flag-Inspired Turban: Modi’s 2022 Independence Day outfit included a white turban with orange and green stripes, reminiscent of the Indian flag, paired with a traditional white kurta and Nehru jacket.
2023 – Bandhani Print Turban: For the 77th Independence Day, Modi sported a multicolored Rajasthani turban with a bandhani print in yellow, green, and red, paired with an off-white kurta and churidar, reflecting traditional elegance.
