When Narendra Modi takes oath at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, thousands from the north-east are set to light up their homes and offices to show their respect to the BJP leader, as well as to express their support for him.
Planned by Manipur-based filmmaker Mohen Naorem, a campaign called ‘MODIfied Northeast India’ is asking the people of the northeast and those from the region living in other parts of the country to light candles in their homes or their offices, around 6 pm on Monday as Modi takes oath as India’s new Prime Minister.
“This is a gesture to support him and to welcome him. The northeast region, which has been plagued by lack of development, needs a person like Modi who had changed the face of Gujarat in the past 12 years,” said Naorem, adding that the symbolic support will show that the region stands by him when he takes the oath at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
“The light a Candle campaign is also symbolic. The candle light means enlightening the region, which was in dark phase for decades and is also a symbol of good days that are coming, as assured by the campaigns of Modi,” said Naorem.
“We have requested everyone through Facebook and Twitter and received tremendous response from the people. We are expecting a huge response tomorrow,” he said.
The initiative MODIfied Northeast India' has also asked people to click a photograph as they light the candles and send the photograph to modifiednortheast@gmail.com along with the name, members of the family and etc. People can also send them a line or two to wish Modi on the biggest moment of his life.
“We are planning to send all the photographs and wishes to Modi afterwards as a token of love,” he said, adding that they have received positive response not only from those hailing from the northeast in the region, but also from those living in other parts of India and abroad.