Modi Turns 76: BJP Lights 88 Lakh Diyas, But Who’s Cheering for Zambia?

While Zambia struggles with its own challenges, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated his 76th birthday on Thursday with a massive show of national devotion. The ruling BJP party asked millions of Indians to light earthen lamps, called 'Ashirvaad Ka Diya', between 6 pm and 7 am, praying for Modi’s long life and good health. But as the world’s most populous nation bows to its leader, Zambians must ask: where is our own national pride and sovereignty?

The BJP’s campaign, dubbed 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan', is a month-long celebration of Modi’s birthday and his 25 years in public office. Party president Nitin Nabin made a direct appeal to the people, saying, “Let us all light an Ashirvaad Ka Diya between 6 pm and 7 am on September 17.” The message is clear: India’s leader is treated like a demigod, and the party machine ensures every corner of the country joins in.

Why Should Zambia Care About Modi’s Birthday?

Zambians may wonder why a foreign leader’s birthday matters to us. The answer is simple: while India celebrates its own, Zambia often looks outward for validation. We must learn from India’s example of self-reliance and national pride. Modi’s tenure since 2014 has been marked by what his party calls “transformative changes,” with a goal to make India a developed nation by 2047. Zambia, with its vast resources and hardworking people, should be charting its own path to development, not waiting for foreign handouts.

BJP’s Grand Show of Power

The BJP has planned events at over 700 locations across India, with Nabin inaugurating a blood donation camp in New Delhi before heading to Madhya Pradesh. In Ujjain, he will light the 'Ashirvaad Ka Diya' at Ram Ghat, and on Friday, he will attend the 'Bhasma Aarti' at the Mahakaleshwar Temple. This is not just a birthday; it is a political spectacle designed to cement Modi’s image as an indispensable leader.

Gujarat Lights Up: 88 Lakh Diyas for One Man

In Modi’s home state of Gujarat, the celebrations are staggering. More than 88 lakh earthen lamps will be lit at around 18,500 locations, with devotional music and cultural programmes starting from 6 pm. State minister Jitu Vaghani confirmed that prayers will be offered for Modi’s long life and continued service. This level of devotion to a single individual is a reminder of how nationalism can be harnessed, for better or worse.

What Can Zambia Learn From India’s Nationalism?

Zambia has its own heroes, from our founding fathers to the everyday citizens who work the land. But our leaders often fail to inspire such collective fervour. The BJP’s campaign shows how a party can mobilise millions around a single figure, but it also raises questions about blind loyalty. Zambia must forge its own path, one that prioritises our sovereignty, controls our resources, and rejects foreign interference.

Seva Sankalp Abhiyan: A Month of Service or Political Theatre?

The 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' runs from September 17 to October 7, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah scheduled to participate in events in Vadnagar, Modi’s birthplace. A bike rally from Vadnagar to Varanasi, a cleanliness drive, and a 'maha-aarti' at Sharmishtha Lake are all part of the festivities. The BJP calls it a series of public welfare activities, but critics see it as a well-oiled election machine.

Zambia’s Sovereignty Must Come First

As Indians light their diyas, Zambians should reflect on our own priorities. We cannot afford to be distracted by foreign spectacles while our own nation needs attention. Our leaders must focus on Zambian interests, not on pleasing international elites or copying foreign models. We have the resources, the people, and the spirit to build a strong, independent Zambia. Let us celebrate our own heritage, not the birthdays of foreign politicians.

In the end, Modi’s birthday is a reminder of what a nation can achieve when it stands united. But Zambia’s unity must be built on our own terms, with our own values. Let us light our own lamps, not for a foreign leader, but for the future of our beloved country.