"Because of Sangh I connected with Marathi language and culture": PM Modi

New Delhi [India], February 21 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday praised Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which was celebrating its centenary, saying that it was because of Sangh that he got a chance to connect with Marathi language and culture.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude that Marathi was granted classical language status during his tenure, for which, 12 crore Marathi-speaking people across the world were waiting.
"It is because of Sangh that I was able to connect to Marathi language and culture. A few months ago, Marathi was granted Classical Language status. There are over 12 crore people in the world who speak Marathi. I got the opportunity to grant classical status to Marathi, and I consider it as my good fortune," PM Modi said, addressing the gathering at the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan at Vigyan Bhavan here.
Giving credit to the RSS for his learnings of Marathi culture and language, the Prime Minister said that the Sangh was indulged in performing a cultural 'yagna' to preach India's culture to its youth.
"This conference is being held as we complete 350 years of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. I also remember a Marathi-speaking man who established Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh nearly 100 years ago. RSS is celebrating its centenary while also carrying out cultural yagna to preach India's culture to the youth, just like Vivekananda. I consider myself fortunate that, like millions of others, the RSS has inspired me to live for the nation," PM Modi said.
On the occasion of International Mother Language Day, remembering the renowned saint Dnyaneshwar.
"Today is the International Mother Language Day. At the invitation of Sharad Pawar, I am getting the opportunity to join this proud tradition. When I think about Marathi, I remember Saint Dnyaneshwar's words when he said, 'Marathi is sweeter than nectar'. Thus, I admire the Marathi language and culture. I am not as proficient in Marathi as you scholars, but I have constantly tried to speak Marathi, to learn new words of Marathi," PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister further stated that the Marathi literary conference was not limited to a language or state, but it reflects the essence of struggle for Independence.
"My greetings to all those who have come to the country's capital from the country's financial capital. Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan is not limited to a language or state. Marathi literary conference reflects the essence of the struggle for Independence. It holds the cultural legacy of Maharashtra and the country," he added. (ANI)